Chop Suey is a beloved classic that originated from Chinese-American cuisine and has since become a staple comfort dish worldwide. This vegan chop suey recipe reinvents the traditional stir-fry with vibrant vegetables, savory sauces, and plant-based protein, delivering a nutritious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this recipe is straightforward, delicious, and packed with wholesome ingredients. The medley of crisp veggies and hearty tofu offers the perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser for both family dinners and casual get-togethers.
What makes this recipe especially appealing is its versatility and how quickly it comes together, ideal for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to get creative with whatever fresh vegetables you have on hand.
Dive into this flavorful vegan chop suey and discover a new favorite that’s as nutritious as it is tasty!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan chop suey recipe is a vibrant celebration of fresh vegetables and plant-based protein, all cooked to perfection in a savory sauce that ties everything together beautifully. It’s:
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy lifestyles.
- Customizable: Use your favorite vegetables or whatever you have in the fridge.
- Healthy and nutritious: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and protein from tofu.
- Flavorful: The umami-rich sauce enhances every ingredient.
- Perfect for meal prep: Keeps well for lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Ingredients
- 14 oz firm tofu (pressed and cubed)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 1 cup sliced celery
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers (red and yellow for color)
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms (shiitake or button)
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 1 cup snow peas, trimmed
- 3 green onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 3 tablespoons water (slurry)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for heat
Equipment
- Large wok or skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Small bowl for cornstarch slurry
- Colander or tofu press (for pressing tofu)
Instructions
- Press and prepare the tofu: Wrap the tofu block in a clean kitchen towel and press it under a heavy object for at least 15 minutes to remove excess moisture. Then cut into 1-inch cubes.
- Heat the wok or skillet: Warm 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the tofu cubes and stir-fry until golden brown on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Remove tofu from the wok and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same wok, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
- Add vegetables: Toss in the celery, bell peppers, mushrooms, carrots, and snow peas. Stir-fry for 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are crisp-tender but still vibrant in color.
- Combine tofu and sauces: Return the tofu to the wok. Pour in the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
- Thicken the sauce: Give the cornstarch slurry a quick stir and drizzle it into the wok. Stir constantly until the sauce thickens and clings to the tofu and vegetables, about 1-2 minutes.
- Final touches: Add the bean sprouts and green onions. Stir for another minute to combine and heat through. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste.
- Serve hot: Remove from heat and serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Tips & Variations
“Don’t rush the tofu step – pressing and browning it well makes all the difference in texture and flavor!”
- Vegetable swaps: Feel free to use broccoli, zucchini, baby corn, or water chestnuts for added crunch and variety.
- Protein options: Swap tofu for tempeh or seitan if you prefer.
- Spice it up: Add fresh chopped chili or a dash of chili garlic sauce for a spicy kick.
- Gluten-free version: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure the hoisin sauce is gluten-free.
- Make it nutty: Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or chopped peanuts over the finished dish for texture.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per serving |
---|---|
Calories | 280 kcal |
Protein | 18 g |
Carbohydrates | 22 g |
Dietary Fiber | 6 g |
Fat | 14 g |
Sodium | 600 mg |
Sugars | 7 g |
Serving Suggestions
This vegan chop suey pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine or brown rice to soak up the savory sauce. For a lighter option, serve it over cauliflower rice or alongside quinoa.
You can also toss it with cooked noodles—rice noodles or soba work great—for a satisfying stir-fry bowl.
For a fresh contrast, serve with a side of crunchy Asian slaw or a simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar and sesame oil. If you want to turn it into a full feast, consider starting with a bowl of hot and sour soup or a fresh spring roll.
Want to explore more delicious vegan and vegetarian dishes? Check out our flavorful Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe and the delightful Pecan Crackers Recipe for perfectly paired sides.
Conclusion
This vegan chop suey recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a quick, nutritious, and flavorful meal that fits perfectly into any lifestyle. With its vibrant vegetables, crispy tofu, and rich, savory sauce, it offers a healthy alternative to traditional takeout without compromising on taste or texture.
The flexibility of this dish means you can tailor it to your preferences and use whatever fresh produce is in season, making it an excellent staple for your recipe repertoire.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself, friends, or family, this chop suey is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and satisfying flavors. Don’t forget to experiment with different veggies and spice levels to make it your own.
For more inspiration on wholesome cooking, explore our other recipes like the hearty Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe or the tangy Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe. Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Chop Suey Recipe Vegan
Description: A quick and flavorful vegan chop suey packed with fresh vegetables and tofu. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT30M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 200g firm tofu, cubed
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
Instructions
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add tofu cubes and cook until golden, then set aside.
- Sauté garlic, ginger, and onion until fragrant.
- Add mushrooms, bell pepper, and cabbage; cook for 5 minutes.
- Pour in vegetable broth, soy sauce, and hoisin sauce; stir well.
- Add bean sprouts and tofu back to the pan; cook for 3 more minutes.
- Serve hot with rice or noodles.
Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 15 g | Fat: 12 g | Carbs: 15 g
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