Description
This delicious Chow Mein recipe features crispy chow mein noodles tossed with fresh crunchy vegetables and a savory homemade chow mein sauce. Quick to prepare and ideal for a wholesome weeknight meal, it can be made vegetarian or with cooked chicken for added protein. The balance of textures and flavors makes it a beloved Asian-inspired stir-fry dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Noodles and Vegetables
- 8 oz chow mein noodles
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1 cup julienned carrots
- 1 cup snow peas
- 4 green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauces and Oils
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
Protein (Optional)
- 1 cup cooked chicken or tofu, diced
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Slice all the vegetables finely and chop the optional protein into bite-sized pieces. Set everything aside to have it ready for quick stir-frying.
- Cook Noodles: Boil chow mein noodles according to package instructions until tender. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Toss them with a little vegetable oil to prevent sticking and set aside.
- Make Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and sugar until the sugar dissolves and the sauce is well combined.
- Cook Protein: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the cooked chicken or tofu pieces and sauté until lightly browned and heated through. Remove from pan and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the remaining oil to the skillet. Sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add carrots, snow peas, and shredded cabbage. Stir-fry the vegetables for 2 to 3 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
- Combine and Stir-Fry: Return the noodles and cooked protein to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the prepared chow mein sauce. Stir-fry everything together for another 2 minutes until the noodles are evenly coated and everything is heated through.
- Finish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the stir-fry, toss once more, and serve the chow mein hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp depending on your preference.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the oyster sauce and replace it with additional soy sauce or a vegetarian stir-fry sauce.
- Adjust the sugar according to taste to balance the saltiness of the sauces.
- Use fresh vegetables for the best crunch and vibrant taste.
- This dish reheats well in a skillet or microwave for a quick meal the next day.
