The Comforting Nostalgia of American Chop Suey
As the sun sets on a busy weeknight, there’s nothing quite like the warm embrace of a hearty meal to bring the family together. Enter American Chop Suey—a beloved one-pot pasta dish that has graced dinner tables across the United States for generations. This retro classic combines tender elbow macaroni, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato-based sauce, making it the perfect comfort food to satisfy your cravings. In this blog, we’ll explore the story behind this nostalgic dish, guide you through the preparation, and share tips to make it your own.
Recipe Overview
American Chop Suey, despite its name, has no ties to traditional Chinese cuisine. The term "chop suey" originally referred to a mix of Chinese-American stir-fries that gained popularity in the late 1800s. By the 1960s, American Chop Suey emerged as a unique dish, swapping rice for pasta and infusing Italian-American flavors like tomato sauce and garlic. This dish is often confused with goulash or Hamburger Helper, but its distinctive flavor profile and versatility set it apart. Known also as "New England-style American Chop Suey," it holds a special place in the hearts of many, especially in the northeastern United States.
Ingredients List
- 1 lb (85% lean) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed beef consommé
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup water
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
Substitutions: For a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. Use vegetable broth instead of beef consommé for a lighter flavor. If gluten-free, substitute elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain excess fat if necessary, then add the diced onion and green bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the tomato paste, stirring to combine, and cook for another minute to deepen the flavors.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef consommé, Worcestershire sauce, and water. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add the elbow macaroni. Stir to ensure the pasta is submerged in the sauce.
- Cover the pot and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked and has absorbed the flavors of the sauce.
- Once the pasta is tender, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. If desired, stir in shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese for a cheesy finish.
- Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.
Nutritional Benefits and Health Advantages
American Chop Suey is not only comforting but also provides a balanced meal option. Each serving offers approximately 241 calories, with 16g of protein, making it a satisfying choice for a post-workout meal. The dish is a good source of Vitamin C from the bell peppers, iron from the beef, and potassium from the tomatoes, contributing to a well-rounded diet.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your American Chop Suey experience, consider pairing it with a simple side salad dressed with vinaigrette or some crusty garlic bread for dipping. For a touch of freshness, sprinkle finely chopped chives or parsley on top before serving. The vibrant colors of the dish, with its rich red sauce and green bell peppers, make for an inviting presentation on any dinner table.
Occasion and Usage Tips
American Chop Suey is the perfect dish for a variety of occasions—from casual family dinners to potlucks and gatherings. Its simplicity and flavor make it a crowd-pleaser, while the one-pot method ensures easy cleanup. Personally, I have fond memories of enjoying this dish at summer camps, where it was a staple that brought everyone together. Feel free to adapt the recipe to your taste; you can add different vegetables, spices, or even swap the meat to create your own version of this classic dish.
Why You Absolutely Must Try This Recipe
American Chop Suey is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary time capsule that evokes memories of family gatherings and simpler times. Its affordability, comforting nature, and rich flavors have allowed it to remain a staple through decades of culinary evolution. Whether you grew up eating it or are trying it for the first time, this dish is sure to bring comfort and joy to your dinner table. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and experience the warmth of American Chop Suey in your own kitchen!
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