What is difference between chow mein and chop suey?

Chow mein and chop suey are both popular Chinese dishes that have gained popularity in Western countries. While they may appear similar, there are distinct differences between the two:

1. Noodles vs. Rice: The main difference between chow mein and chop suey lies in the carbohydrates used. Chow mein is made with stir-fried noodles, typically made from wheat flour or egg-based noodles, whereas chop suey is served with rice.

2. Sauce: Chow mein is usually prepared with a thickened soy-based sauce that coats the noodles and ingredients. On the other hand, chop suey is a dish with a light gravy or sauce, which is poured over the stir-fried meat and vegetables.

3. Cooking Method: Chow mein is stir-fried, where the noodles are cooked first and then tossed with vegetables, meat, and sauce. Conversely, chop suey involves stir-frying the ingredients like meat, vegetables, and sometimes tofu or seafood, and finally simmering them in a sauce.

4. Vegetables: Both chow mein and chop suey typically incorporate a variety of vegetables. However, the vegetable selection and preparation methods may differ. Chow mein often includes crunchy vegetables such as bean sprouts, carrots, onions, and cabbage, stir-fried to retain their crispness. Chop suey, on the other hand, may contain a broader array of vegetables such as bamboo shoots, water chestnuts, bell peppers, and mushrooms.

5. Traditional vs. Americanized: Chow mein is a dish of traditional Chinese origin, prepared in a way that is commonly found in China and other Asian countries. In contrast, chop suey has origins in America, specifically among Chinese immigrants in the United States. It was developed to adapt to Western palates and is considered a more "Westernized" version of Chinese cuisine.

Overall, the main distinction between chow mein and chop suey lies in the choice of carbohydrates, the type of sauce used, the cooking method, and the cultural background. However, it's important to note that variations of these dishes may exist, as they can differ regionally or according to individual recipes.