"First, let's explore the origins of Chop Suey".
On the night of 14 June 1904, New York's Chinatown was engulfed in a dark cloud. For two decades, it had flourished due to the city's seemingly unquenchable desire for chop suey. Every evening, diners packed into restaurants along Mott and Pell, eager for a taste of "authentic" Chinese cuisine. However, this prosperous trend suddenly seemed threatened when chef Lem Sen arrived from San Francisco. He boldly declared that chop suey was not truly Chinese, but rather a creation of his own while working at a "Bohemian" restaurant in San Francisco ten years prior. According to Lem, the recipe had been stolen by an American patron who gained wealth from it. Seeking justice, he demanded compensation from restaurants or they must cease serving the dish altogether.
Fortunately, Lem eventually abandoned his lawsuit. Surely, he must have been aware of its ridiculousness. However, the legend of the dish's 'American' roots endured. In the following years, newspapers frequently hailed it as Uncle Sam's creation and ridiculed anyone who fell for the misconception that it originated from China. To this day, the saying 'as American as chop suey' remains in use.
" American Chop Suey"
In contrast, the American Chop suey is a uniquely American entree with no ties to traditional Chinese cuisine. This hearty dish originated in the early 20th century in New England, which includes states like Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont. Despite its name, it differs greatly from its Chinese namesake. Instead of vegetables and stir-fried meats, the American version consists of ground beef, macaroni, tomato sauce, and various seasonings. Its moniker may have come from its fusion of American flair and Chinese influence.
What exactly is American Chop Suey? This dish, known for its comforting qualities, goes by various names, but here in New England, it is simply referred to as that. Some may wonder if American Chop Suey is the same thing as goulash. Through our research, we have discovered that this dish is recognized by a range of other names all over the country (such as goulash, chili mac, and macaroni red). Despite the different titles, the essence of the meal remains consistent, making it a beloved favorite throughout the nation.
" But who can resist the deliciousness of American Chop Suey?"
