American Chop Suey I

Introduction

History

The origins of American Chop Suey can be traced back to the early 20th century, where it emerged as a popular dish among immigrant communities in the United States. It is believed to have been inspired by Chinese Chop Suey, adapted to suit the ingredients more readily available in America. Over the years, it has evolved into a unique dish in its own right, with various interpretations found across different regions of the country.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best flavor and texture for your American Chop Suey, consider the following tips:

- Brown the hamburger thoroughly to develop a deep, rich flavor.

- Drain the fat from the hamburger to keep the dish lighter and healthier.

- Simmer the ingredients slowly to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, keeping in mind that the flavors will intensify as the dish cooks.

Serving Suggestions

Serve American Chop Suey hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. It pairs well with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key techniques in this recipe include browning the meat to develop flavor, simmering the ingredients to meld the flavors, and baking to achieve a comforting, casserole-like consistency.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of hamburger for a lighter version.

- Fresh tomatoes and a bit of tomato paste can substitute for tomato juice if preferred.

- Tamari or coconut aminos can be used as a soy sauce alternative for those avoiding soy or gluten.

Make Ahead Tips

American Chop Suey can be prepared in advance and refrigerated for up to 2 days before baking. This allows the flavors to deepen and meld, resulting in an even more delicious dish.

Presentation Ideas

Serve in a deep dish or individual bowls, topped with grated cheese or a dollop of sour cream for added richness. A sprinkle of green onions or chives can add a fresh touch.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp white wine or a cold lager pairs beautifully with the savory flavors of American Chop Suey. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a sparkling water with a squeeze of lime.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little water or tomato juice if the mixture seems dry.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of American Chop Suey typically contains about 250-350 calories, making it a relatively calorie-friendly option for a main meal.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively moderate in carbohydrates, primarily coming from the vegetables and tomato juice. The exact carbohydrate content can vary, but a serving typically contains around 20-30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The fat content in American Chop Suey largely depends on the choice of hamburger meat. Using lean ground beef can significantly reduce the fat content, making the dish healthier. On average, a serving may contain about 10-15 grams of fat.

Proteins

American Chop Suey is a good source of protein, thanks to the hamburger meat. Each serving can provide approximately 20-25 grams of protein, making it a satisfying and muscle-friendly option.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly from the vegetables used. It provides a good amount of Vitamin C from the green pepper and tomatoes, as well as Vitamin A, potassium, and iron.

Alergens

The primary allergens to be aware of in this recipe include soy (from the soy sauce) and gluten (if using soy sauce that is not gluten-free). Always check labels for potential allergens based on individual dietary needs.

Summary

Overall, American Chop Suey is a balanced dish that offers a good mix of proteins, moderate carbohydrates, and essential vitamins and minerals. By choosing lean meat and being mindful of portion sizes, it can fit well into a healthy diet.

Summary

American Chop Suey I is a versatile, comforting dish that combines simple ingredients into a flavorful meal suitable for any day of the week. With its rich history and the ability to adapt to various dietary needs, it remains a cherished recipe in many American kitchens. Whether served as a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, it's sure to satisfy.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for American Chop Suey. It was tucked away in an old cookbook that I had inherited from my own grandmother. The pages were yellowed and fragile, evidence of the countless meals that had been prepared using its recipes.

As I carefully turned the pages, I came across the recipe for American Chop Suey. The ingredients were simple - ground beef, onions, peppers, tomatoes, and macaroni - but the combination intrigued me. I had never heard of this dish before, and I was eager to give it a try.

I decided to make American Chop Suey for dinner that night. I gathered all the ingredients and set to work in the kitchen, following the instructions in the cookbook as closely as I could. As the dish simmered on the stove, the aroma of the seasoned beef and vegetables filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.

When the American Chop Suey was finally ready, I ladled it into bowls and served it to my family. The first bite was a revelation - the flavors were rich and comforting, the perfect combination of savory and satisfying. My husband and children all declared it a new favorite, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in our household.

Over the years, I have made American Chop Suey countless times, each time tweaking the recipe to suit my family's tastes. I have added extra spices, experimented with different types of pasta, and even swapped out the ground beef for ground turkey on occasion. But no matter how I have altered the recipe, the dish always brings back memories of that first time I made it, of the joy of discovering something new and delicious.

As I have grown older, I have come to appreciate the importance of passing down family recipes. I have shared the recipe for American Chop Suey with my own children and grandchildren, teaching them how to make it just as my grandmother taught me. I have also shared it with friends and neighbors, spreading the joy of this simple yet comforting dish far and wide.

In a world that is constantly changing and evolving, there is something comforting about cooking a dish that has been passed down through generations. The act of preparing a meal using a recipe that has been loved and cherished by so many before me connects me to my past and to the people who came before me. It is a way of honoring their memory and preserving a small piece of their legacy.

So as I sit here now, flipping through the pages of that old cookbook, I am grateful for the gift of this recipe for American Chop Suey. It may seem like just a simple dish, but to me, it is a link to my past, a reminder of the love and care that has gone into feeding my family for so many years. And for that, I am truly thankful.

Categories

| American Recipes | Bean Sprout Recipes | Celery Recipes | Chop Suey Recipes | Green Bell Pepper Recipes | Ground Beef Recipes | Mushroom Recipes | Onion Recipes | Tomato Juice Recipes | World Recipes |

Recipes with the same ingredients