Chow Mein Recipe with Savory Stir-Fry Sauce is a delicious way to bring authentic Chinese food flavors to your table. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this popular stir-fried noodle dish.
Ingredients
For the Chow Mein:
- 200g fresh chow mein noodles (or spaghetti as a substitute)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup sliced onion
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup julienned carrots
- 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
Prepare the Chow Mein Ingredients:
- Cook the Noodles: Boil the chow mein noodles until they’re slightly tender but still firm to the bite. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
- Chop the Vegetables: Slice the onion, cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, and green onions. Having everything ready ensures a smooth stir-frying process.
Prepare the Stir-Fry Sauce:
- Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and black pepper. Stir well to dissolve the sugar and create a smooth mixture.
Cook the Chow Mein:
- Heat the Oil: In a large wok or skillet, heat the vegetable oil over high heat until it begins to shimmer.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the sliced onion and cook for about a minute. Then add the cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers, and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
- Add Noodles and Sauce: Add the cooked noodles to the pan, along with the stir-fry sauce. Toss everything together, ensuring the sauce coats the noodles and vegetables evenly.
- Add the Bean Sprouts and Green Onions: Add the bean sprouts and green onions, stir-frying for another minute until the chow mein is thoroughly mixed and heated.
Tips for Making Perfect Chow Mein
- High Heat: Cooking at high heat allows for a quick stir-fry that keeps the noodles and vegetables crispy without overcooking.
- Use Fresh Noodles: Fresh chow mein noodles have the best texture, but you can substitute with dried noodles or even spaghetti if needed.
- Vegetable Variations: Add mushrooms, snap peas, or baby corn for extra flavor and nutrition.
Health Benefits of Chow Mein Ingredients
Chow mein, often served as part of Chinese food, contains a variety of fresh vegetables, which provide essential vitamins and minerals. Vegetables like cabbage and bell peppers are packed with vitamin C, while bean sprouts offer fiber and protein. This dish can be both a satisfying and balanced meal when made with nutritious ingredients.
Ideal Pairings for Chow Mein
Pair chow mein with other classic Chinese food dishes like kung pao chicken, hot and sour soup, or egg rolls for a complete, flavor-rich meal.
More Serving Ideas
As a Side Dish: Chow mein can accompany a variety of meat or tofu dishes, adding a tasty, carb-rich side to your meal.
In a Bowl: Create a hearty meal bowl with chow mein as the base, topped with your favorite proteins and vegetables.
In a Wrap: Use chow mein noodles as a filling for lettuce wraps, adding crunch and flavor to each bite.
History and Origins of Chow Mein
Chow mein has roots in Chinese cuisine, where “chow mein” translates to “stir-fried noodles” in Cantonese. This dish has evolved, with regional adaptations found across the globe. From its origins in Cantonese cooking, chow mein remains a beloved dish due to its flavorful sauce, crisp vegetables, and tender noodles. To read more about the history of Chinese food and noodle dishes like chow mein, check out here.
Enjoy Your Meal!
This Chow Mein Recipe with Savory Stir-Fry Sauce is a fantastic way to bring classic Chinese food flavors to your table. Quick to make and endlessly adaptable, it’s a versatile dish that you’ll want to prepare again and again.
