Lo Mein noodles are one of my favorite quick meals to whip up in the kitchen. There is something so delightful about a bowl of perfectly cooked noodles tossed with colorful vegetables and savory sauce. I’ve enjoyed Lo Mein at many restaurants, but I find that making it at home is even more rewarding. In this post, I will share my tried-and-true Lo Mein noodles recipe that is simple, quick, and delicious.
What Are Lo Mein Noodles?
Lo Mein noodles are a type of Chinese wheat noodle that is thick and chewy. They are similar to spaghetti but have a unique texture that holds on to sauces perfectly. When cooked, these noodles can bring a whole new level of flavor to any dish.
Ingredients for Lo Mein Noodles Recipe
Creating a delightful Lo Mein dish is all about having the right ingredients. Here is a list of what you will need:
Noodles:
- 8 oz Lo Mein noodles (or spaghetti as a substitute)
- Water for boiling
Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
Veggies:
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup snap peas
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- Green onions for garnish
Optional Protein:
How to Make the Lo Mein Noodles
Making Lo Mein noodles is quick and straightforward. Follow these steps:
- Boil the Noodles: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the Lo Mein noodles and cook for about 4-5 minutes or until they are tender but still a bit chewy.
- Drain and Rinse: Once cooked, drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. This also keeps them from sticking together.
Mix Your Sauce Ingredients
Now it’s time to prepare the sauce. Combine all the sauce ingredients in a bowl:
- Soy sauce
- Oyster sauce (if using)
- Sesame oil
- Sugar
- Cornstarch mixture
Stir until well combined. This step ensures that all the flavors meld together beautifully.
Preparing the Veggies
I love incorporating veggies into my Lo Mein because they add color and nutrition.
- Chop Everything: Make sure the bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and snap peas are washed and sliced.
- Sauté: In a large skillet or wok, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and ginger, stirring for about a minute until fragrant.
- Add Vegetables: Toss in your veggies and sauté for about 5-7 minutes. You want them to remain crisp.
Combine Noodles, Sauce, and Veggies
Once the vegetables are cooked, it’s time to add the noodles.
- Add Noodles: Stir in the cooked noodles into the skillet with the veggies.
- Pour Sauce Over: Pour the prepared sauce over the noodles. Toss everything together to ensure the noodles are evenly coated.
- Heat Through: Cook for another 2-3 minutes to let all the flavors combine and the noodles are heated through.
Adding Protein (Optional)
For those who want a protein boost, now is the time to add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu into the mix. Gently fold it into the noodle mixture and let it heat for a couple of minutes.
Garnishing Your Lo Mein Noodles
Once everything is combined and heated through, it’s time to serve.
- Garnish: Top with chopped green onions for an extra bit of flavor and crunch.
Serving Lo Mein Noodles
Lo Mein is the perfect standalone dish, but it can also be served in various ways:
- With Sides: Pair with spring rolls or dumplings for a full meal.
- Make It a Platter: Make a large batch and serve the Lo Mein on a shared platter for family-style dining.
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers, here’s how to store them:
- Refrigerate: Place your Lo Mein in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in a skillet on low heat, adding a splash of water to get the noodles warmed and less sticky.
Tips for the Best Lo Mein Noodles
Creating that perfect dish of Lo Mein at home comes with a few helpful tips:
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Keep them a little chewy, as they will continue to cook when added to the skillet.
- Use Seasonal Vegetables: Don’t be afraid to switch up the veggies depending on what you have on hand.
- Feel Free to Experiment: Adjust the sauce ingredients to your liking. Add more soy sauce for a saltier flavor or more sugar for sweetness.
Nutritional Information
Lo Mein can be a well-rounded meal on its own. Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional content based on this recipe:
- Calories: Approximately 350-450 kcal per serving (depending on added protein and veggies)
- Protein: 10-20g (with protein addition)
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
- Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 4-5g
Cooking Lo Mein noodles at home can be a simple and rewarding experience. I find joy in choosing my ingredients and flavors to make every bowl my own. I encourage you to have fun with this recipe, feel free to swap ingredients, and bring your creativity to the table. This Lo Mein noodles recipe can easily become a family favorite.