Here’s a classic Chow Mein recipe—stir-fried noodles with vegetables and protein, full of flavor and quick to make. 🍜🥢
Classic Chow Mein (Serves 4)
Ingredients
For the Stir-Fry
- 8 oz (225 g) chow mein noodles or thin egg noodles
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1 cup julienned carrots
- 1 cup bell peppers, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cooked protein (chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu)
For the Sauce
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
- ½ tsp sugar
- Pinch of black pepper
Instructions
1. Cook noodles
- Cook noodles according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- Optional: Toss lightly with a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
2. Stir-fry vegetables and protein
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add onion and garlic; stir-fry 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add carrots, bell peppers, and cabbage; stir-fry 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Add cooked protein and toss to combine.
3. Add noodles and sauce
- Add noodles to the skillet.
- Stir together soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar, cornstarch slurry, and pepper; pour over noodles.
- Toss everything together and cook 2–3 minutes until noodles are coated and sauce thickens slightly.
4. Serve
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with chopped green onions or sesame seeds.
Tips
- Vegetable variations: Add mushrooms, snow peas, bean sprouts, or broccoli.
- Protein options: Chicken, beef, shrimp, pork, or tofu all work well.
- Crispy noodles: For “Hong Kong-style” chow mein, fry cooked noodles in a little oil until crispy before adding sauce.
Variations
- Vegetarian: Omit meat and use extra tofu or tempeh.
- Spicy: Add chili paste, Sriracha, or red pepper flakes.
- Make-ahead: Sauce can be prepared in advance; stir-fry vegetables and protein just before serving.
I can also give a super-quick 15-minute version using pre-cooked noodles and frozen mixed vegetables for a fast weeknight meal.
Do you want me to do that version?
