As the sun begins to set on a busy day, the thought of a comforting dinner is often a welcome relief. That’s when I discovered the magic of Shrimp Chop Suey—a vibrant and quick meal that transforms my kitchen into a bustling eatery. The lively colors of fresh vegetables mixed with succulent shrimp come together in a savory sauce that dances with flavor. Best of all, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those frantic weeknight dinners when time is of the essence.
Whether you’re a culinary whiz or just stepping into your cooking shoes, this recipe provides an exciting way to break free from the monotony of fast food. Plus, with easy options for vegetarian adaptations, it’s a delightful choice for everyone at the table. So, let’s embark on a flavorful journey and whip up some Shrimp Chop Suey that promises to impress while keeping things deliciously simple!
Why is Shrimp Chop Suey a Must-Try?
Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights.
Healthful Ingredients: A medley of fresh vegetables and shrimp creates a wholesome meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
Versatile Choices: Don’t like shrimp? No problem! Easily swap it out for tofu or tempeh.
Flavor Explosion: The delightful combination of sauces and veggies provides a savory experience that delights the taste buds.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s family or friends, this Shrimp Chop Suey is sure to impress and become a favored go-to dish.
Easy Cleanup: With just one pan for cooking, you’ll spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal!
Looking for more quick meal ideas? Check out our 30-Minute Meals.
Shrimp Chop Suey Ingredients
For the Sauce
- Chicken Broth (½ cup) – Base for the sauce, enhancing savoriness; low-sodium broth or cold water also work well.
- Rice Wine Vinegar (1 tsp) – Adds a tangy note; it can be substituted with apple cider or white wine vinegar.
- Soy Sauce (3 tbsp) – Delivers umami flavor; for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
- Sugar (1 tsp) – Balances the dish’s acidity; brown sugar can be a substitute if preferred.
- Oyster Sauce (2 tbsp) – Adds depth and richness; if you’re looking for a vegetarian option, consider mushroom-based vegan oyster sauce.
- Corn Starch (4 tsp) – A key thickening agent for the sauce; whisk well to avoid lumps when adding.
For the Stir Fry
- Vegetable Oil – Used for sautéing vegetables; canola oil is a good substitute.
- Sesame Oil – Adds flavor to the stir fry; use sparingly, as it is quite strong.
- Large Shrimp (1 lb) – The star of this dish, providing protein and texture; opt for large or jumbo shrimp to minimize shrinkage.
- Snow Peas (1 cup) – Adds crispness and a sweet flavor; alternatives include snap peas if desired.
- Carrots (2 large, sliced) – Introduces crunch and vibrant color; using rainbow carrots can enhance visual appeal.
- Celery (3 stalks, chopped) – Contributes additional crunch and flavor; no substitutes needed for this refreshing ingredient.
- Mushrooms (1 cup, sliced) – Absorb flavors and add umami; white button or shiitake mushrooms are great options.
- Baby Corn (1 15 oz can, drained) – Provides sweetness and crunch; fresh baby corn can be used if it’s available.
With this ingredient lineup, you’re on your way to crafting a delightful Shrimp Chop Suey that’s not only quick but also bursting with flavor!
How to Make Shrimp Chop Suey
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Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine chicken broth, rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, oyster sauce, and corn starch. Whisk until smooth and set aside for the flavors to meld.
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Sauté Vegetables: Heat vegetable oil and sesame oil in a wok over medium heat. Add sliced carrots and chopped celery, stirring for 4-5 minutes until they become tender.
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Add Remaining Veggies and Sauce: Stir in snow peas, mushrooms, baby corn, and the prepared sauce. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, stirring until the sauce thickens and coats the vegetables beautifully.
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Cook Shrimp: Add the large shrimp to the sautéed vegetables and sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and are firm to the touch.
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Serve: Remove from heat and serve the hot Shrimp Chop Suey immediately over a bed of rice or noodles, garnishing with fresh herbs if desired.
Optional: Top with sliced green onions for an added crunch and flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Shrimp Chop Suey are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop and store all your fresh vegetables up to 24 hours in advance, keeping them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their crunch. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it in a sealed jar for up to 3 days, ensuring the flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the prepped veggies and sauce in a pan, add the shrimp, and cook until they turn pink and firm, providing you with delicious, restaurant-quality results with minimal effort.
How to Store and Freeze Shrimp Chop Suey
Fridge: Store leftover Shrimp Chop Suey in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Shrimp Chop Suey in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to retain moisture.
Avoid Overcooking: Ensure shrimp is not overcooked during reheating to maintain its tender texture.
Shrimp Chop Suey Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine as you tweak this dish to match your taste and dietary preferences!
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace shrimp with tofu or tempeh for a satisfying plant-based meal. Both options absorb flavors beautifully and add a hearty texture.
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Vegan Oyster Sauce: Swap oyster sauce for a mushroom-based vegan oyster sauce to keep it plant-based while still enjoying a rich, umami flavor.
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Spice it Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the vegetables for an extra kick of heat that dances on your palate.
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Nutty Twist: Incorporate chopped cashews or peanuts to introduce a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the overall dish.
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Colorful Veggies: Experiment with bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas instead of traditional vegetables to suit your personal taste—these add not just color, but sweet and crisp textures as well.
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Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all sauces are gluten-free, such as using tamari in place of soy sauce and gluten-free oyster sauce for a worry-free meal.
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Herbal Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil just before serving for a burst of freshness and aromatic flair that elevates each bite.
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Coconut Milk Treat: For a creamy texture, add a splash of coconut milk to the sauce. This twist brings a tropical vibe that pairs wonderfully with shrimp or tofu.
Tips for the Best Shrimp Chop Suey
- Choose Fresh Shrimp: Opt for fresh rather than frozen shrimp to enjoy a juicier texture and more vibrant flavor in your Shrimp Chop Suey.
- Sauté at Medium-High Heat: Keep your heat at medium-high for crisp, tender vegetables that maintain their bright colors and crunch.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a larger batch, cook in batches to avoid steaming the vegetables; this ensures they sauté nicely.
- Balance the Sauce: Adjust the sugar and soy sauce according to taste for a perfect sweet-savory balance in your Shrimp Chop Suey.
- Whisk Corn Starch Well: Make sure to whisk the corn starch thoroughly into the sauce to avoid lumps as it thickens.
- Customize Veggies: Don’t hesitate to mix in your favorite seasonal vegetables or leftovers to make this dish uniquely yours!
What to Serve with Shrimp Chop Suey?
Imagine gathering around the table, savoring a delightful meal that brings everyone together with its vibrant flavors and aromas.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The perfect base, jasmine rice pairs beautifully with the savory sauce, soaking up every delicious drop.
- Crispy Egg Rolls: These crunchy bites add a satisfying texture contrast and bring a little extra zest to your dinner spread.
- Garlic Noodles: Rich and buttery, garlic noodles create a lovely harmony with the freshness of the Shrimp Chop Suey’s vegetables.
- Sesame Green Beans: Lightly sautéed with sesame, these greens provide a nutty flavor that complements the dish’s umami essence.
- Asian Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crisp, this salad adds a bright, cool crunch to balance the warm, savory main dish.
- Chilled Sake or Tea: A refreshing drink choice, both options cleanse the palate and enhance the overall Asian-inspired dining experience.
- Fruit Sorbet: For dessert, a light fruit sorbet offers a sweet finish that is refreshing after the savory delights of your meal.
Each of these pairings elevates your dining experience, making your Shrimp Chop Suey a meal to remember!
Shrimp Chop Suey Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for Shrimp Chop Suey?
It’s best to use large or jumbo shrimp for this recipe. They hold their shape well and don’t shrink too much during cooking, providing a satisfying texture. If possible, opt for fresh shrimp for the best flavor and juiciness!
How should I store leftover Shrimp Chop Suey?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I freeze Shrimp Chop Suey?
Absolutely! You can freeze Shrimp Chop Suey in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. To reheat, gently warm it in a pan on medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to rehydrate the dish.
What if my sauce turns out too watery?
If your sauce is too watery, don’t worry! You can thicken it by creating a slurry with a little corn starch mixed with water and adding it to the pan. Stir continuously while cooking on low heat until it thickens. This will ensure your sauce has the perfect consistency for coating the ingredients.
Is this recipe suitable for people with gluten allergies?
Yes! You can easily make the Shrimp Chop Suey gluten-free by substituting regular soy sauce with gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Just ensure that any other ingredients you use are also gluten-free.
Can I use different vegetables in the Shrimp Chop Suey?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with your vegetable choices. Bell peppers, broccoli, or even zucchini can make fantastic additions. The more colorful your vegetable array, the more vibrant and appealing your dish will be!
Quick Shrimp Chop Suey That's Healthier and Deliciously Easy
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a small bowl, combine chicken broth, rice wine vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, oyster sauce, and corn starch. Whisk until smooth and set aside for the flavors to meld.
- Heat vegetable oil and sesame oil in a wok over medium heat. Add sliced carrots and chopped celery, stirring for 4-5 minutes until they become tender.
- Stir in snow peas, mushrooms, baby corn, and the prepared sauce. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, stirring until the sauce thickens and coats the vegetables beautifully.
- Add the large shrimp to the sautéed vegetables and sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and are firm to the touch.
- Remove from heat and serve the hot Shrimp Chop Suey immediately over a bed of rice or noodles, garnishing with fresh herbs if desired.