Lo Mein Noodles Recipe

Name: Lo Mein Noodles Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 8 oz lo mein noodles; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 cup bell peppers (sliced); 1 cup broccoli florets; 1 cup carrots (julienned); 2 green onions (chopped); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; Optional: 1 cup cooked chicken (beef, or tofu)

Are you ready to indulge in a plate of delicious lo mein noodles? This recipe combines perfectly cooked noodles with vibrant vegetables and your choice of protein, all tossed in a savory sauce. Fast and flavorful, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings. Let’s dive into this simple yet satisfying recipe that will surely impress your family and friends!

Ingredients

– 8 oz lo mein noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 cup carrots, julienned
– 2 green onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Optional: 1 cup cooked chicken, beef, or tofu

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 15 minutes.

Nutritional Value

This nutritional information is based on one serving (1/4 of the recipe):
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 12g
– Fat: 10g
– Carbohydrates: 52g
– Fiber: 4g
– Sodium: 600mg

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Boil water in a large pot and cook the lo mein noodles according to package instructions, then drain.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add sliced bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. If using protein, add it now and stir-fry for another 2 minutes.
6. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil.
7. Add the cooked lo mein noodles to the skillet with the vegetables.
8. Pour the sauce mixture over the noodles and toss everything together.
9. Stir in chopped green onions and cook for an additional minute.
10. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade lo mein noodles!

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute lo mein noodles with spaghetti or rice noodles if needed. For a vegetarian option, use tofu or tempeh instead of meat. Feel free to mix in any vegetables you prefer, such as snap peas or mushrooms.

Serving and Pairings

Lo mein noodles go perfectly with a side of spring rolls or dumplings. You can also serve them alongside a light soup or salad for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover lo mein noodles in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of water or sauce in a pan over medium heat until warmed through. You can freeze the dish, but it may affect the texture of the noodles.

Cooking Mistakes

Overcooking the noodles can make them mushy.
Not preparing all ingredients before cooking can lead to burnt garlic.
Using too much sauce can make the dish overly salty.
Skipping the oil can cause sticking.
Not tossing the noodles quickly can lead to clumping.

Helpful Tips

Use high heat for a better stir-fry.
Prep all ingredients before starting to cook.
Taste as you go to adjust seasoning.
Feel free to experiment with sauces for variety.

FAQs

Can I make lo mein noodles in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the vegetables and sauce ahead of time. Just cook the noodles fresh when you’re ready to serve.

What can I use instead of soy sauce?

You can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos as a soy sauce alternative.

How can I add more protein to this dish?

You can easily add cooked chicken, shrimp, beef, or tofu to boost the protein content.

Are lo mein noodles gluten-free?

Traditional lo mein noodles are not gluten-free, but you can find gluten-free alternatives made from rice or mung beans.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy, such as zucchini, bok choy, or snow peas for extra flavor and nutrition.

Conclusion

This lo mein noodles recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal at home. With simple ingredients and quick cooking time, it’s perfect for busy nights or entertaining guests. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredients and make it your own!