Chow Mein is a vibrant, quick, and savory stir-fry dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s a fantastic homemade alternative to take-out, featuring crisp vegetables, soft noodles, and a rich, flavorful sauce. You can customize it by adding the protein of your choice, making it as versatile as it is delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chow Mein is a fantastic recipe that captures the essence of Asian stir-fry in a quick and easy dish. Not only is it super tasty, but it also gives you the flexibility to adapt it to your preferences. Whether you prefer vegetarian or with added protein like chicken, beef, or shrimp, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of fresh vegetables, savory sauce, and perfectly cooked noodles makes for an unforgettable meal that’s both satisfying and wholesome. Plus, it only takes 15 minutes to whip up, making it the ideal solution for a busy day when you crave something comforting.

Ingredients

Chow Mein Sauce:

• 1 cup hot water

• ¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium)

• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce

• 2 tablespoons Chinese cooking wine

• 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

• 2 teaspoons cornstarch

Chow Mein:

• 2 tablespoons peanut oil

• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

• 1 medium carrot (julienned or thinly sliced)

• 4 cups cabbage (shredded, preferably Napa cabbage)

• 12 ounces chow mein noodles

• 3 green onions (chopped)

• 1 cup bean sprouts

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Make the Sauce: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the hot water, soy sauce, oyster sauce, Chinese cooking wine, dark soy sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, and cornstarch. Set the sauce aside.

2. Stir-Fry the Vegetables: Heat peanut oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Add the julienned carrots and cook for another minute. Stir in the shredded cabbage and cook for another 2 minutes, until the cabbage has softened and wilted.

3. Add Noodles and Sauce: Add the chow mein noodles to the pan. Quickly stir the sauce and pour it over the noodles. Let the noodles cook for 2 minutes before tossing them in the sauce. Continue tossing for 3-5 minutes, ensuring the noodles are fully coated and cooked through.

4. Add Green Onions and Bean Sprouts: Stir in the chopped green onions and bean sprouts. Toss everything together until the noodles, veggies, and sauce are evenly mixed.

5. Serve: Serve immediately while warm. Optionally, drizzle with hot sauce for an added kick.

Servings and Timing

• Prep time: 5 minutes

• Cook time: 10 minutes

• Total time: 15 minutes

• Servings: 4

Variations

• Protein options: Add your choice of protein, such as chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu. Cook the protein in the wok first before adding the vegetables.

• Vegetarian version: Simply omit the oyster sauce and substitute it with mushroom soy sauce for a fully vegetarian dish.

• Vegetable substitutions: You can experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms for variety.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover chow mein in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for a few minutes or in a hot skillet over medium heat. You may want to add a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of noodle for chow mein?

Yes, you can substitute chow mein noodles with other types of noodles such as soba noodles, lo mein noodles, or even rice noodles.

2. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

3. Is chow mein gluten-free?

Traditional chow mein noodles contain gluten, but you can opt for gluten-free noodles to make the dish gluten-free.

4. Can I make this dish without Chinese cooking wine?

Yes, you can substitute Chinese cooking wine with chicken broth or vegetable broth, though the flavor may differ slightly.

5. What can I add to chow mein for extra flavor?

For more flavor, consider adding a bit of ginger, chili flakes, or hoisin sauce.

6. Can I freeze chow mein?

Yes, you can freeze chow mein in an airtight container for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to reheat it thoroughly when you’re ready to serve.

7. How do I make crispy chow mein noodles?

To make crispy noodles, fry the noodles in oil until golden and crispy, then toss them in the stir-fry at the end.

8. Can I add more vegetables to chow mein?

Absolutely! Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or baby corn to customize the dish to your liking.

9. Can I make chow mein without a wok?

Yes, a large skillet or frying pan will work just as well if you don’t have a wok.

10. How do I adjust the sweetness of the sauce?

If you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more brown sugar to taste. Alternatively, if you like it less sweet, reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe.

Conclusion

This Chow Mein recipe is a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy days or when you’re craving a delicious, homemade stir-fry. The balance of fresh vegetables, savory sauce, and customizable noodles makes it an easy go-to dish for any occasion. With just 15 minutes of cook time, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen for those days when you need a tasty meal without the hassle.