Lo Mein Recipe
Are you craving a comforting bowl of noodles? This lo mein recipe is your answer! It’s a delightful combination of chewy noodles tossed in a savory sauce with fresh vegetables and your choice of protein. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this dish is simple to prepare and packed with flavor. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a homemade meal that rivals your favorite takeout.
Ingredients
- 8 oz lo mein noodles
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- Protein of choice (chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, with a cooking time of 15 minutes, making it a quick meal option.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately:
– Calories: 320
– Protein: 12g
– Carbohydrates: 45g
– Fat: 10g
– Fiber: 4g
This nutritional value is based on a serving size for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Boil water in a large pot and cook the lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the sliced bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots. Cook for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, tossing to combine with the vegetables.
- Pour soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using) over the noodles. Mix well.
- Stir in green onions and sesame oil for added flavor.
- If using protein, add it now and toss until heated through.
- Check for seasoning and adjust if necessary, adding more soy sauce if desired.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional green onions or sesame seeds if you like.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute lo mein noodles with spaghetti or rice noodles if needed. Additionally, feel free to swap vegetables based on your preference, using snow peas, bok choy, or snap peas for varied textures and flavors.
Serving and Pairings
Lo mein pairs beautifully with a side of spring rolls, dumplings, or a fresh cucumber salad. For a complete meal, serve alongside a hot and sour soup or steamed edamame.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover lo mein in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave for a couple of minutes or stir-fry in a skillet with a splash of water to bring back its original texture. Freezing is not recommended, as noodles can become mushy.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the noodles can make them mushy.
- Not heating the oil adequately before adding ingredients can result in soggy vegetables.
- Skipping the garlic can diminish the flavor.
- Using too much soy sauce can make the dish overly salty.
- Failing to toss the noodles well can lead to uneven flavor distribution.
Helpful Tips
- Prep all ingredients before starting to cook for a smoother process.
- Use high heat for a quick stir-fry to keep the vegetables crisp.
- Experiment with different proteins for variety.
- Garnish with sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use gluten-free noodles for lo mein?
Yes, gluten-free noodles can be used as a substitute for traditional lo mein noodles. Look for rice noodles or gluten-free pasta for a similar texture.
How can I make my lo mein spicier?
To add heat, try incorporating chili paste or fresh sliced chilies during the cooking process. Adjust according to your spice preference.
Is lo mein healthy?
Lo mein can be part of a balanced diet, especially if you load it with vegetables and lean protein. Watch portion sizes and oil amounts for healthier options.
Can I make lo mein vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit any meat and use tofu or additional vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.
How do I prevent my noodles from sticking together?
Rinse cooked noodles under cold water to remove excess starch and prevent sticking. Toss them in a little oil before adding to the stir-fry.
Conclusion
This lo mein recipe is not only quick and easy but also customizable to suit your taste. With its vibrant vegetables and satisfying noodles, it’s a perfect meal for any occasion. Enjoy the delightful flavors and the joy of cooking this classic dish at home!
Lo Mein Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 oz lo mein noodles
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 2 green onions chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce optional
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- Protein of choice chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu
Instructions
- Boil water in a large pot and cook the lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the sliced bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots. Cook for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, tossing to combine with the vegetables.
- Pour soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using) over the noodles. Mix well.
- Stir in green onions and sesame oil for added flavor.
- If using protein, add it now and toss until heated through.
- Check for seasoning and adjust if necessary, adding more soy sauce if desired.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional green onions or sesame seeds if you like.
