Chinese Cuisine

Easy Lo Mein Recipes | 15-Minute Homemade Noodles

Easy Lo Mein Recipes

This recipe is for the easiest Lo Mein you can make in just 15 minutes. It’s faster, tastier, and healthier than getting takeout!

Introduction

Back when I had a regular job, my boss loved Lo Mein from a nearby restaurant. She would order it three times a week, often sharing a portion with me. That flavorful, slightly smoky stir-fried noodle dish quickly became one of my favorites. Now, as a full-time blogger, I often crave that same Lo Mein but prefer a homemade version that’s quicker, healthier, and tailored to my taste. In this article, we’ll show you how to make the perfect Lo Mein at home in just 15 minutes. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, you’ll love this simple recipe!

The Origins of Lo Mein

Lo Mein, which translates to “tossed noodles” in Cantonese, originates from China and has a long culinary history. The dish dates back to the Han Dynasty, where wheat noodles became a staple food. Originally a simple combination of noodles, vegetables, and a light sauce, Lo Mein evolved into a beloved comfort food enjoyed across China and beyond. In the United States, it gained popularity through Chinese-American restaurants, often adapted to local tastes with more robust sauces and a wide variety of add-ins.

Traditionally, Lo Mein is prepared by boiling wheat noodles, which are then tossed with a soy-based sauce and stir-fried vegetables. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility; it can be customized with different proteins, vegetables, and seasonings to suit individual preferences.

untitled design 21 6578ccb3e6c2a

Related Articles

Description

Lo Mein is a classic Chinese dish featuring long, chewy noodles tossed with stir-fried vegetables, proteins, and a flavorful sauce. This versatile dish can be customized with your favorite ingredients, making it a perfect option for cleaning out your fridge. The homemade version we’re sharing today is quick, easy, and packed with vibrant flavors, perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a takeout-style meal at home.

Unlike its counterpart, Chow Mein (which is typically crispy and stir-fried), Lo Mein focuses on soft, tossed noodles. The sauce is absorbed by the noodles, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s a crowd-pleaser for all ages.

Ingredients

For the Noodles:

  • 8 ounces Lo Mein egg noodles
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups cremini mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 carrot, sliced
  • ½ cup snow peas
  • 3 cups baby spinach

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 teaspoons sugar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • ½ teaspoon ground ginger
  • ½ teaspoon Sriracha

Easy Lo Mein Veggie Recipe

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Sauce

  1. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, ground ginger, and Sriracha until well combined. Set aside.

Cooking the Noodles

  1. Boil the Lo Mein noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Stir-Frying the Vegetables

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  2. Add minced garlic, mushrooms, bell pepper, and carrot. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender.
  3. Add snow peas and baby spinach. Stir-fry for another 2 minutes until the spinach wilts.

Combining the Ingredients

  1. Add the cooked noodles and sauce to the skillet. Toss gently to combine, ensuring the noodles and vegetables are evenly coated with sauce.
  2. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until heated through.

Serving

  1. Transfer the Lo Mein to a serving dish. Garnish with sesame seeds or green onions if desired.
  2. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Creative Variations

Lo Mein is a dish that thrives on creativity. Here are some ideas to make your Lo Mein unique:

Protein Options:

  • Chicken: Use thinly sliced chicken breast or thigh meat.
  • Beef: Flank steak or sirloin works well; slice it thin against the grain.
  • Shrimp: Devein and peel large shrimp for a seafood twist.
  • Tofu: Press and cube firm tofu for a vegetarian option.

Vegetable Swaps:

  • Bok Choy: Adds a slightly sweet crunch.
  • Broccoli: Steam lightly before stir-frying.
  • Zucchini: Slice thinly for a tender, mild flavor.
  • Bean Sprouts: Stir in at the last moment for crunch.

Lo Mein Chicken Noodles – Easy and Delicious Recipe!

Pro Tips

  • Prep Ingredients First: Stir-frying is a quick process, so have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking.
  • Use High Heat: Cook over medium-high to high heat for that authentic stir-fried flavor.
  • Don’t Overcook: Keep the vegetables slightly crisp to maintain texture and flavor.
  • Customize the Sauce: Adjust the sweetness, saltiness, or spiciness of the sauce to suit your taste.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Transfer leftover Lo Mein to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent the noodles from drying out. Microwave on medium power if you’re in a hurry.

FAQs

Can I use spaghetti instead of Lo Mein noodles?
Yes, spaghetti or other long noodles like linguine or udon can be a great substitute.
How can I make this dish vegan?
Use tofu or plant-based protein, and ensure your soy sauce and noodles are vegan-friendly.
Can I meal prep Lo Mein?
Absolutely! Prepare the dish and store it in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.
What’s the best oil to use for stir-frying?
Use oils with a high smoke point, like peanut oil, vegetable oil, or canola oil.

Conclusion

This Easy Lo Mein Recipe is a game-changer for quick and satisfying homemade meals. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can recreate the delicious flavors of takeout in your own kitchen. Customize it with your favorite vegetables and proteins, and enjoy a dish that’s not only tastier but also healthier than takeout. Try this recipe today and bring the joy of homemade Lo Mein to your table!

 

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Back to top button

Adblock Detected

Please consider supporting us by disabling your ad blocker