Why You’ll Love This Vegetarian Chop Suey Recipe
You’ll love this Vegetarian Chop Suey recipe because it brings a burst of vibrant flavors and textures to your plate. Each bite is a delightful mix of crunchy veggies and savory sauce, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
I appreciate how quick and easy it’s to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a nutritious option that satisfies my cravings without weighing me down.
Whether you’re a long-time vegetarian or just looking to try something new, this dish never disappoints. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Ingredients of Vegetarian Chop Suey
When it comes to creating a delicious Vegetarian Chop Suey, the ingredients are the stars of the show. Each one plays a unique role in crafting that perfect medley of flavors and textures. You might be surprised by how many vibrant vegetables you can throw into the mix. Plus, it’s a great way to clean out your fridge and use up any leftover veggies.
So, let’s gather our ingredients and get ready to whip up this colorful dish that’s sure to impress.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2/3 cup chopped onion
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons grated fresh gingerroot
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1/2 cup diagonally cut carrot
- 1/2 cup diagonally cut celery
- 2/3 cup sliced white button mushrooms
- 1 cup sliced bell pepper
- 2/3 cup coarsely shredded red cabbage
- 2 cups diagonally cut zucchini
- 2/3 cup mung bean sprouts
- 2/3 cup sliced green beans
- 2/3 cup snow peas
- 2/3 cup bamboo shoots
- 2/3 cup sliced water chestnuts
- 1 cup sliced tomatoes
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 cups cooked brown rice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Now, before you start chopping away, it’s good to think about a few things. If you’re not a fan of one of the vegetables listed, feel free to swap it out for something you love. Broccoli, snap peas, or even bell peppers can bring their own flair to the dish.
And the beauty of vegetarian cooking is that you can experiment! Make it your own. Also, if you’re looking to make this dish even heartier, consider adding some tofu or tempeh. Just make sure to press the tofu to remove excess moisture for the best texture.
I mean, who doesn’t enjoy a bit of protein with their veggies? So gather those ingredients and get ready to create a meal that will wow your taste buds and fill your belly.
How to Make Vegetarian Chop Suey
Now, let’s not forget about our lovely friends, the bean sprouts and peas. Add 2/3 cup of mung bean sprouts****, 2/3 cup of sliced green beans****, 2/3 cup of snow peas****, 2/3 cup of bamboo shoots**, 2/3 cup of sliced water chestnuts, and 1 cup of sliced tomatoes**.
Cook this glorious mix for an additional 3 minutes. The kitchen will start smelling like a stir-fry dream, and you might wonder why you don’t make this every week.
But wait, we’re not done yet! Whisk together 1 cup of water, 2 tablespoons of soy sauce**, and 3 tablespoons of cornstarch**, then gently stir this mixture into the vegetables.
Keep cooking until the sauce thickens and everything is tender-crisp. Just a pinch of salt and pepper to taste, and voilà—your Vegetarian Chop Suey is ready to serve over 3 cups of cooked brown rice****.
Enjoy every bite, and maybe even save some for later, if you can resist.
Vegetarian Chop Suey Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up with your Vegetarian Chop Suey, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to contemplate.
You can swap the brown rice for quinoa or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Instead of using all the vegetables listed, feel free to add your favorites like broccoli or baby corn.
For protein, consider tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas. If you want a bit of heat, toss in some chili flakes or sriracha.
Finally, switch up the soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free version. Get creative and make this dish your own!
Additional Tips & Notes
Experimenting with substitutions and variations can really elevate your Vegetarian Chop Suey.
I love adding a splash of lime juice for a zesty kick or tossing in some tofu for extra protein. If you’re craving more heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Remember, cooking time may vary depending on the veggies you choose, so keep an eye on them to guarantee they stay tender-crisp.
If you want a richer flavor, consider using vegetable broth instead of water.
Finally, don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions for a vibrant finish! Enjoy your cooking!