American Chop Suey Recipe Indian Vegetarian Style Made Easy

American Chop Suey is a beloved comfort food classic in the United States, known for its hearty combination of pasta, savory tomato sauce, and ground meat. But what if you want to enjoy this flavorful dish with an Indian vegetarian twist?

This Indian vegetarian version of American Chop Suey brings together the best of both worlds: the familiar, cozy flavors of the American original combined with vibrant Indian spices and fresh vegetables.

It’s a wholesome, satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. Plus, it’s easy to make and adaptable to what you have on hand!

In this recipe, we swap out the traditional ground meat for protein-rich paneer and chickpeas, and add aromatic Indian spices like cumin, garam masala, and turmeric to give it a warm, earthy flavor. The pasta retains its classic role, but the sauce is infused with Indian ingredients like ginger, garlic, and fresh coriander to elevate the dish.

Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking to try a new spin on a classic, this recipe is a must-try.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Indian vegetarian American Chop Suey recipe is a perfect fusion of flavors that will delight your taste buds. It’s:

• Nutritious and filling: Loaded with vegetables, paneer, and chickpeas for protein and fiber.
• Comforting and flavorful: The tomato-based sauce is rich and spiced with Indian seasoning, offering a new take on a classic.
• Easy to customize: You can add your favorite veggies or substitute paneer with tofu or other legumes.
• Quick to prepare: Ready in about 40 minutes, making it ideal for weekday dinners.
• Vegetarian and wholesome: Perfect for those avoiding meat but craving a hearty pasta dish.

Ingredients

• 200g elbow macaroni or penne pasta
• 200g paneer, cubed
• 1 cup cooked chickpeas (or canned, drained and rinsed)
• 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or mustard oil)
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, grated
• 2 medium tomatoes, pureed or finely chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional for a subtle Italian touch)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
• 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup (optional, for a slight sweetness)
• 1 cup water or vegetable broth

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large non-stick skillet or deep pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and chopping board
• Grater (for ginger)
• Colander or sieve
• Measuring spoons and cups

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the paneer and veggies: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed paneer and lightly fry until golden on all sides. Remove and set aside.
3. Toast the spices: In the same skillet, add the remaining oil. When hot, add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds until fragrant.
4. Sauté aromatics: Add chopped onions and cook until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking until aromatic – about 1-2 minutes.
5. Add vegetables: Toss in diced bell pepper and carrot. Cook for 4-5 minutes until they soften but still retain some crunch.
6. Spice it up: Stir in turmeric powder, red chili powder, garam masala, and oregano if using. Mix well to coat the veggies.
7. Add tomatoes: Pour in the pureed or chopped tomatoes along with the tomato ketchup (if using). Let the sauce simmer for about 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.
8. Add chickpeas and water: Stir in the cooked chickpeas and add 1 cup water or vegetable broth. Simmer for another 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
9. Combine pasta and paneer: Add the cooked pasta and fried paneer cubes to the sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
10. Adjust seasoning: Taste and add salt as needed. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra protein, add boiled kidney beans or green peas.

If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in 2 tablespoons of cream or coconut milk at the end.

Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.

Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or dry fenugreek leaves (kasuri methi) for a unique aroma.

For vegan variation, replace paneer with tofu and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This Indian vegetarian American Chop Suey pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or a side of roasted vegetables. A dollop of yogurt or raita on the side can help balance the spices and add a cooling element.

For a more substantial meal, serve it alongside warm Indian breads like Bread Thermomix Recipe or a simple garlic naan. You might also enjoy it with a refreshing beverage like a Blueberry Mule for a fun twist.

For meal prep, this dish reheats well and tastes even better the next day once the flavors have melded. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

This Indian vegetarian take on American Chop Suey is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavors and textures to your dinner table. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a classic pasta dish while embracing the warmth and depth of Indian spices, making it perfect for vegetarians and spice lovers alike.

Whether you are cooking for your family, hosting friends, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is flexible, nutritious, and easy to make. You’ll love the cozy tomato sauce, tender veggies, and protein-packed paneer and chickpeas that make this dish truly satisfying.

Give it a try and enjoy a unique fusion meal that bridges two culinary worlds in every bite.

Looking for more delicious recipes? Check out our Breakfast Wellington Recipe for a hearty start to your day, the savory Braised Pork Ribs With Radish Recipe for a comforting dinner, or indulge in the exotic flavors of our Bluebill Duck Recipes for a special occasion.

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