Introduction
American Chop Suey is a favorite comfort food. It mixes savory ground beef, tender elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce. This classic dish has been a New England staple for decades, offering a satisfying meal. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting main course.
The secret to a delicious American Chop Suey is in the ingredients. We’ll look at the essential parts, from the meat blend to the tomato sauce and fresh veggies. By knowing the core ingredients and how to prepare them, you can make a mouthwatering American Chop Suey at home.
Key Takeaways
- American Chop Suey is a classic American comfort food dish with roots in New England cuisine.
- The recipe typically includes ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a rich tomato-based sauce.
- Proper ingredient selection and preparation are crucial for achieving the perfect flavor and texture.
- Slow simmering ensures the tenderness of the meat, while a balance of vegetables adds depth and complexity.
- Customizable with optional additions like cheese, herbs, and spices to suit personal preferences.
What is American Chop Suey Made Of?
American chop suey is a hearty dish loved by many. It’s made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, onions, bell peppers, and a tasty tomato sauce. This mix of ingredients creates a meal that’s both simple and delicious.
Core Ingredients Overview
The main parts of American chop suey are:
- Ground beef – Usually 85% lean for the best taste and texture.
- Elbow macaroni – The classic pasta that holds the sauce well.
- Onions – Diced white or yellow onions add a nice flavor.
- Bell peppers – Green bell peppers are common, but other colors work too.
- Tomato sauce – The sauce that makes the dish rich and tangy.
- Herbs and spices – Oregano, basil, garlic, salt, and pepper are used for flavor.
Regional Ingredient Variations
While the main ingredients stay the same, some places add their own twist:
- They might use different pasta shapes like penne or rotini.
- Some add diced celery or mushrooms for more veggies.
- They might try unique spice blends or a bit of Worcestershire sauce.
- They often top it with shredded cheese or fresh herbs.
Quality Ingredients Selection Tips
For the best taste, choose high-quality ingredients. Use 85% lean ground beef, fresh Parmesan or cheddar cheese, and ripe tomatoes. This will make your American chop suey flavorful and satisfying.
The History and Origins of American Chop Suey
American Chop Suey is not from China, despite its name. It’s a beloved New England dish known by many names. These include Goulash, Beefaroni, and Hamburger Casserole. It’s a comfort food that has been around for a long time.
Its exact start is a mystery, but it’s been a favorite in American cooking for ages. You’ll find it in school cafeterias and at family gatherings.
The term “chop suey” means “different pieces” in Chinese. It started in the U.S. as a mix of meat and veggies in brown sauce. But the American version, like Chicago’s, uses ground beef, spaghetti, and canned tomatoes.
By the early 1900s, American Chop Suey was everywhere in the U.S. It was in restaurants from Illinois to Texas. Each place had its own twist, making the dish even more special.
Though it’s more famous in New England, American Chop Suey was around in the U.S. by the 1870s or 1880s. It spread fast, becoming a hit in Chinese restaurants and beyond.
In New England, from the 1960s to the 1980s, American Chop Suey was everywhere. It was made with ground beef, macaroni, and tomato sauce. Some added onions, peppers, or Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor.
Essential Base Ingredients for the Perfect Dish
At the heart of a delicious American Chop Suey dish are three key ingredients. These are ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a tasty tomato-based sauce. Together, they make a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Ground Beef Selection
Choose a lean ground beef, about 85% lean, for the best flavor and texture. This ensures the meat is tender and juicy, without too much grease. You can also use ground turkey for a lighter option.
Pasta Options and Alternatives
Elbow macaroni is the classic choice for American Chop Suey. But, you can also try other short pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni. The important thing is to pick a pasta that can hold the sauce and meat well, without getting mushy.
Tomato-Based Components
The tomato sauce is what holds the dish together. Use a mix of tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste for a rich flavor. Adding a bit of tomato juice can also enhance the moisture and taste.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground Beef | 2 pounds, 85% lean |
| Elbow Macaroni | 1 pound |
| Tomato Sauce | 1 (28-ounce) can |
| Crushed Tomatoes | 1 (28-ounce) can |
| Tomato Paste | 2 tablespoons |
| Tomato Juice (optional) | 1/2 cup |
“The perfect American Chop Suey starts with the right base ingredients – high-quality ground beef, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, flavorful tomato sauce.”
Fresh Vegetables and Aromatics
Vibrant onions, crisp green peppers, and fragrant garlic are key to an authentic American Chop Suey. They add flavor and texture to the dish.
Recipes often use diced white onions that are cooked until they’re soft and slightly sweet. Green bell peppers add a crunchy bite. Minced garlic gives the dish a savory smell.
While green peppers are common, trying red, yellow, or orange peppers can make the dish look and taste different. Some recipes also add diced celery for extra crunch and flavor.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Onions, diced | 1 medium | Provides sweetness and texture |
| Green bell peppers, diced | 1 medium | Adds crunch and freshness |
| Garlic, minced | 4 cloves | Enhances savory aroma and flavor |
| Celery, diced (optional) | 1 stalk | Contributes additional crunch and depth of flavor |
These vegetables and aromatics are cooked in a skillet or wok before adding tomato-based ingredients. This lets their flavors mix well together.
“The key to a truly authentic American Chop Suey lies in the careful selection and preparation of the fresh vegetables and aromatics.”
Herbs and Seasonings Guide
The flavors of American Chop Suey shine with the right herbs and seasonings. A mix of Italian seasoning, seasoned salt, and garlic powder is key.
Traditional Spice Blend
The basic spice mix for American Chop Suey is:
- 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons of seasoned salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
Optional Flavor Enhancers
Some recipes add extra flavors. These include:
- 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce for depth
- Fresh or dried herbs like basil, oregano, and parsley for freshness
Seasoning Measurements
Here are the usual seasoning amounts for American Chop Suey:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Italian seasoning | 2 teaspoons |
| Seasoned salt | 2 teaspoons |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste |
Some recipes add a bit of sugar, about 1 teaspoon, to balance the tomatoes’ acidity.
Step-by-Step Preparation Method
Making the classic American Chop Suey is easy and quick, taking less than 30 minutes. First, cook the elbow macaroni as the package says until it’s just right. Then, drain it and put it aside.
Next, cook the ground beef in a big skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Make sure to break it up as it cooks. Once it’s fully cooked, remove any extra fat from the pan.
- Add the onions, bell peppers, and celery to the pan. Cook until they’re soft, about 5-7 minutes.
- Then, add the garlic and cook for another minute. This will make it smell great.
- Mix in the cooked beef, veggies, tomato products, broth, and your favorite spices. Let it simmer.
- Put the cooked macaroni into the pan and mix well. Let it simmer for 10-15 minutes to blend the flavors.
- If you want, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top during the last few minutes of cooking.
You can make American Chop Suey on the stovetop, or use a slow cooker or Instant Pot for easier cooking. Its hearty taste and simple steps make it a hit with families.
Cooking Equipment and Tools Needed
To make the classic American Chop Suey, you need some key tools. From the stovetop to the counter, the right tools make cooking easier and more fun.
Essential Cookware
- A large pot or Dutch oven for cooking the pasta and simmering the sauce
- A colander for draining the cooked pasta
- A large skillet or sauté pan for browning the ground beef or pork
Optional Kitchen Tools
- A slow cooker or Instant Pot for an alternative cooking method
- A wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring and scraping the pot
- A cheese grater for freshly grating Parmesan or cheddar cheese
These tools will help you make the perfect recipe. From start to finish, they ensure a delicious meal. With the right tools, you can enjoy making a tasty dish.
| Essential Cookware | Optional Kitchen Tools |
|---|---|
| Large pot or Dutch oven | Slow cooker or Instant Pot |
| Colander | Wooden spoon or silicone spatula |
| Large skillet or sauté pan | Cheese grater |
Recipe Variations and Adaptations
American Chop Suey is a dish many love. It’s great for trying new things. You can change ingredients and add flavors to make it your own.
Want a lighter version? Try ground turkey instead of beef. Add mozzarella or Parmesan for a creamy twist. Bell peppers in different colors make it look and taste better.
Mushrooms add texture and flavor. Some recipes include frozen veggies like carrots, peas, or corn. This makes the dish more filling.
- Ground turkey for a lighter option
- Mozzarella or Parmesan cheese for a creamy texture
- Assorted bell pepper colors for visual appeal
- Mushrooms for added flavor and texture
- Frozen vegetables like carrots, peas, or corn
For a spicy dish, add hot sauce or red pepper flakes. For creaminess, mix in some cream cheese at the end.
| Variation | Description |
|---|---|
| Spicy American Chop Suey | Add hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a spicy twist |
| Creamy American Chop Suey | Stir in a small amount of cream cheese at the end of cooking |
American Chop Suey is perfect for trying new things. You can make it leaner, cheesier, or spicier. The options for adaptations and ingredient substitutions are endless.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
American Chop Suey is a hearty dish that’s great as leftovers. It stores and reheats well. You can enjoy your homemaderecipe for days.
To store leftovers, cool the dish and put it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave, adding water or broth if it’s dry.
Freezing American Chop Suey is possible but not recommended. It can change the pasta’s texture. Before freezing, undercook the pasta. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Enjoying American Chop Suey fresh or reheated is convenient. Follow these simple guidelines to enjoy it for days.
“The best part about American Chop Suey is that it just gets better the next day. The flavors meld together perfectly, making it the ultimate comfort food.”
Whether you’re enjoying a fresh batch or reheating leftovers, It is a versatile and convenient meal. With these simple storage and reheating guidelines, you can savor the flavors of this classic dish for days to come.
Nutritional Information and Dietary Considerations
Understanding the nutritional value of American Chop Suey is key. A typical serving, about 2 cups, has 350-480 calories. It also has 50-75g of carbs, 20-26g of protein, and 4-15g of fat. The dish is quite high in sodium, with 660-2800mg per serving.
Caloric Content
The calories in American Chop Suey can change based on ingredients and portion size. If you’re watching calories, pay attention to serving sizes. You can also tweak the recipe to lower calories.
Dietary Modifications
- Whole Grain Pasta: Switch to whole grain pasta for more fiber and a healthier carb option.
- Lean Ground Turkey: Choose lean ground turkey to cut down on fat and calories.
- Plant-Based Meat Alternatives: Try soy-based or mushroom-based products for a vegetarian or vegan version.
- Reduced Sodium: Use low-sodium broths and tomato products to reduce sodium.
- Zucchini Noodles or Cauliflower Rice: Use these instead of pasta for a lower-carb dish.
With these tweaks, you can enjoy American Chop Suey while meeting your dietary needs.
Conclusion
American Chop Suey is a favorite comfort food. It mixes simple ingredients into a tasty, fulfilling meal. It’s great for busy nights, big gatherings, or meal prep.
This dish has a rich history and is loved by many. It brings a sense of home and warmth to every bite. It’s a staple in many homes, offering a taste of nostalgia.
American Chop Suey started in Chinese-American cuisine but is now a beloved dish everywhere. It’s a classic comfort food that everyone enjoys. It’s perfect for those looking for a delicious, satisfying meal.
This dish is all about familiar flavors and can be made in many ways. It truly captures the spirit of American comfort food.
Exploring the recipe reveals its interesting history and how it’s loved across the U.S. It’s a dish that brings people together and offers a taste of the past. It will remain a cherished part of American food for years to come.
FAQ
What is the difference between American and Chinese chop suey?
American chop suey is a pasta casserole made with macaroni, ground beef, and tomato sauce. Chinese chop suey is a stir-fry with vegetables, meat, and a savory sauce, served over rice or noodles.
What was the original American chop suey?
The original recipe was a one-pot dish combining cooked elbow macaroni, ground beef, onions, and tomato sauce, seasoned for a hearty and affordable meal.
What does chop suey consist of?
Chinese chop suey consists of stir-fried vegetables like bean sprouts, cabbage, and celery, combined with meat (chicken, beef, or pork) in a flavorful sauce, served over rice or noodles.
What is the difference between American goulash and American chop suey?
American goulash is similar but may include additional seasonings like paprika, cheese, or other vegetables, and sometimes uses different pasta shapes. American chop suey is simpler and typically sticks to macaroni, ground beef, and tomato sauce. Both are comfort-food casseroles, but they differ slightly in flavor and ingredients.