Chow Mein

Preparation Time: 15 mins. |

Cooking Time: 20 mins. |

Serving: 4 Persons |

Category: Main Meal

chow mein

Chow Mein is a popular Chinese stir-fried noodle dish that combines tender noodles with a mix of fresh vegetables and protein, such as chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu. The dish is flavored with a savory sauce made from soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil, creating a perfect balance of umami and slight sweetness. Chow Mein is quick to prepare, versatile, and customizable, making it a favorite for weeknight dinners or takeout-style meals. It’s typically garnished with green onions and sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.

Ingredients

For the Noodles:

  • Chow Mein Noodles (or egg noodles): 400g
  • Water (for boiling): As needed
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon

For the Stir-Fry:

  • Chicken, Beef, Shrimp, or Tofu (sliced thinly): 300g
  • Vegetable Oil: 3 tablespoons
  • Garlic Cloves (minced): 3 cloves
  • Ginger (minced): 1 tablespoon
  • Carrots (julienned): 1 cup
  • Bell Peppers (sliced): 1 cup (mixed colors)
  • Cabbage (shredded): 2 cups
  • Bean Sprouts: 1 cup
  • Green Onions (sliced): 1/2 cup

For the Sauce:

  • Soy Sauce: 3 tablespoons
  • Oyster Sauce: 2 tablespoons
  • Sesame Oil: 1 tablespoon
  • Sugar: 1 teaspoon
  • White Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Cornstarch (optional, for thickening): 1 teaspoon mixed with 2 tablespoons water

For Garnish:

  • Sesame Seeds: 1 tablespoon

Fresh Cilantro (optional): For garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Noodles:

  1. Cook the Noodles:
    Boil the chow mein noodles in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking. Toss with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and set aside.
  1. Prepare the Sauce:
  1. Mix the Sauce:
    In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and white pepper. Set aside.
  1. Cook the Stir-Fry:
  1. Stir-Fry the Protein:
    Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the sliced chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu and stir-fry until cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  2. Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
    In the same wok, add the remaining oil. Add the minced garlic and ginger, stir-frying for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the carrots and bell peppers, stir-frying for 2-3 minutes.
  3. Add Cabbage and Bean Sprouts:
    Add the shredded cabbage and bean sprouts. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
  4. Combine Noodles and Protein:
    Add the cooked noodles and protein back to the wok. Pour the sauce over the ingredients and toss everything together. If using, add the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
  1. Serve:
  1. Plate the Dish:
    Transfer the chow mein to a serving platter or individual plates.
  2. Garnish:
    Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Add fresh cilantro if desired.

Nutrition Informaton

  • Calories: 400 kcal
  • Total Fat: 12g
    • Saturated Fat: 2g
    • Trans Fat: 0g
    • Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g
    • Monounsaturated Fat: 5g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg (for chicken/beef/shrimp)
  • Sodium: 900mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 50g
    • Dietary Fiber: 5g
    • Sugars: 6g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Vitamin A: 120% of DV
  • Vitamin C: 80% of DV
  • Calcium: 6% of DV
  • Iron: 15% of DV
  • Magnesium: 10% of DV
  • Potassium: 500mg (14% of DV)
  • Folate: 10% of DV