Chop suey, along with chow mein, symbolizes Chinese cuisine more than any other dish. Originating from Chinese cuisine, known as "tsap seui", this dish was first made from various leftovers. Served as a humble dish among the farmers it later became what we know today as 'Chop Suey' of the Chinese restaurants in the western world.
Main ingredients of this dish are eggs and various types of meat, depending on the recipe. It is slowly cooked with a lot of vegetables, such as bean sprouts, cabbage, asparagus and celery. On side, there is usually rice or noodles served. With that much variety in meat, vegetables, spices, and sauce used to prepare the Chop Suey, there have been hundreds of recipes all over the world.
Fast and easy to make, this dish is a real proof of the traditional Chinese way of preparing food. Highly caloric and fat, it satisfies the appetite and gives the body all the nutrients it needs. Despite being that much caloric, the recipe can be tampered; for example, using less oil, adding more vegetables, or using chicken instead of pork. That way a Chop Suey is made that can be used as a light meal or even diet.