Better Than Takeout Lo Mein a Weeknight Winner
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction
Ever had that craving for Lo Mein Noodles Easy , but the thought of ordering takeout fills you with dread? Honestly, same.
That's why I'm sharing my foolproof recipe for Better Than Takeout Lo Mein. We're talking succulent chicken, perfectly cooked noodles, and a sauce so good you'll want to lick the plate.
It's got that savory, slightly sweet flavor profile that just hits the spot.
Quick Hook: Sayonara Soggy Takeout!
Ready to ditch the disappointing takeout? This is how to prepare Lo Mein that will make you swear off delivery forever. Think savory, satisfying, and ready in under 40 minutes.
Brief Overview: From China to Your Kitchen
This delightful dish has its roots in China, where it started as a simple way to use up leftover ingredients.
It's incredibly easy to make, perfect for a weeknight meal. This recipe yields 4 servings, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prepping.
Main Benefits: Hello Healthy ish!
Let's be real, this isn't exactly health food, but it's packed with protein and veggies. Plus, you control the ingredients, so you can make it as healthy or indulgent as you like! It's the perfect dish for a cozy night in or when you're craving that classic Chinese takeout flavor.
What makes this recipe special is the balance of flavors and how easily you can customize it. You know what I mean?
So, fancy giving it a try? Let's dive into what you'll need to create this dish. It's easier than you might think! Time to gather up the bits and bobs for Chicken With Noodles Recipes Easy .
We're about to make some magic happen in your kitchen!
Ingredients & Equipment for the Best Lo Mein
Right then, let's gather our bits and bobs for this Easy Lo Mein Recipe ! It's simpler than you think, honestly.
No need to faff about with fancy ingredients. Here's what you'll need to how to prepare lo mein , the real deal.
Main Ingredients
Lo Mein Noodles: 1 pound (450g) , fresh or dried. Egg noodles are the classic choice. But wheat noodles work too!
Chicken: 1 pound (450g) , boneless, skinless breasts. Go for chicken that looks nice and pink, not pale or slimy. It should smell fresh, not funny.
Veggies: You know, the good stuff!
- Onion: 1 medium
- Garlic: 2 cloves
- Ginger: About 1 inch
- Red Bell Pepper: 1
- Mushrooms: 1 cup, sliced.
- Carrots: 1 cup, shredded
- Bean Sprouts: 1 cup
- Green Onions: 2, chopped
Sauce: This is where the magic happens!
- Soy Sauce: 1/4 cup
- Oyster Sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Sesame Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Brown Sugar: 1 tablespoon
- Rice Vinegar: 1 tablespoon
- Cornstarch: 1 teaspoon
- Chicken Broth: 1/4 cup
- White Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
Other bits:
- Vegetable Oil: 3 tablespoons
- Cornstarch (for Chicken): 1 tablespoon
- Sesame Oil (for Chicken): 1 teaspoon
Seasoning Notes
Soy sauce is your base. Oyster sauce adds that umami . Sesame oil brings the nutty flavour. Brown sugar balances it all out.
If you want to make a Vegetarian Lo Mein Recipe , just swap out the oyster sauce for a vegetarian alternative.
Easy peasy. You can substitute the rice vinegar with apple cider vinegar in a pinch.
Equipment Needed
- Wok or Large Skillet: Essential! You need space to toss things about.
- Large Pot: For boiling your noodles.
- Mixing Bowls: For sauces and marinades.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons: Be precise, darling!
- Cutting Board & Sharp Knife: Don't be using blunt knives.
Alright, let's get cracking! Time to ditch that takeaway menu. Seriously, this Lo Mein recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero.
It’s miles better than the greasy stuff. Honestly? Way more satisfying.
Cracking the Lo Mein Code
This isn't your average, bland bowl of noodles. We're talking serious flavour! Imagine perfectly cooked noodles, crisp tender veggies, and a sauce that's like, the definition of umami.
Are you looking for Chicken Lo Mein Recipes ? This is it, my friend!
Prep Like a Pro: Mise en Place Magic
Before you even think about turning on the hob, get your stuff together. This is the essential mise en place.
Slice your chicken , chop your veg, and measure your sauce ingredients. Think of it like your pre-show ritual before belting out "Bohemian Rhapsody" at karaoke night.
It's all about prepping for success, innit? Also, safety first. Mind your fingers with that knife!
Lo Mein: step-by-step Sensation
Time to cook! This Easy Lo Mein Recipe is straightforward. Ready? Here we go:
- Cook the Lo Mein egg noodles recipe according to package directions. Drain them and toss with a tablespoon of oil. This stops them from sticking.
- Marinate the chicken in cornstarch, soy sauce, and sesame oil for 10 minutes .
- Whisk together the sauce ingredients. This includes soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, brown sugar, rice vinegar, cornstarch, chicken broth, and white pepper.
- Cook the chicken in a wok or large skillet over high heat until browned.
- Sauté your onions, garlic, ginger, bell pepper, and mushrooms. Cook until slightly softened. Then, add the shredded carrots and bean sprouts.
- Return the chicken to the wok. Pour in the sauce. Simmer until thickened.
- Add the noodles and toss to coat.
- Garnish with green onions and serve immediately!
Ace Your Lo Mein Game
Want to level up your Homemade Lo Mein skills? Here's the tea:
- High heat is key . It gives that smoky "wok hei" flavor. It's the secret ingredient!
- Don't overcook your noodles. Mushy noodles are the worst! Aim for al dente .
- If you want a Vegetarian Lo Mein Recipe , swap the chicken for tofu and skip the oyster sauce. Use a Lo Mein Noodles Easy recipe and it will taste great.
- Don't have oyster sauce? Soy sauce and hoisin sauce does the trick.
Honestly, once you nail this Quick Lo Mein , you'll never look at takeout the same way again. Plus, knowing how to prepare lo mein is a proper skill to have.
I hope you enjoyed this Authentic Lo Mein Recipe and let me know what you think about these Chicken With Noodles Recipes Easy .
Recipe Notes: Elevate Your Lo Mein Game
Right, let's talk Lo Mein deets. This isn’t just any old recipe; it’s how to prepare lo mein that'll blow your mind.
Honestly, getting the Best Lo Mein isn't hard. You just need a few insider tips. Trust me, I've been there, done that and eaten way too much Chicken Lo Mein Recipes in the process!
Serving Suggestions: Level Up Your Plating
Forget just chucking it in a bowl! For presentation, think about a swirl of noodles, neatly arranged veggies, and the chicken glistening on top.
A sprinkle of sesame seeds? Always a good shout.
As for sides, egg rolls are classic, aren't they? Or, for something lighter, steamed greens cut through the richness beautifully.
A crisp, cold beer? Sorted. That's how we can make Chicken With Noodles Recipes Easy , isn't it?
Storage Tips: Keeping it Fresh
Leftovers? No problem! This Easy Lo Mein Recipe will keep for 3-4 days in the fridge. Make sure it's in an airtight container, mind.
If you think it'll be longer, freezing is an option. Just portion it out first.
Reheating is simple: either microwave it (stirring halfway through) or, better yet, give it a quick fry in a pan to perk everything back up.
Variations: Get Creative!
Fancy a veggie version? Easy peasy. Just swap the chicken for tofu and use vegetable broth. Bam! A tasty Vegetarian Lo Mein Recipe is born.
I once used roasted sweet potato in mine. Oh my gosh! It was divine.
For a seasonal twist, swap out the bell peppers for some butternut squash in the autumn. It adds a lovely sweetness.
If you need a proper Authentic Lo Mein Recipe , then you should stick to basics!
Nutrition Basics: Know Your Noodles
Okay, so this isn't health food, but it's not all bad. You're getting protein from the chicken, vitamins from the veggies, and energy from the noodles.
It's a reasonably balanced dish. It's also fairly Quick Lo Mein dish you can prepare even with little effort.
If you are watching your sodium intake, be mindful of the soy sauce. Honestly, it can creep up on you.
Using a lower sodium version is a good option. Now you know Lo Mein Egg Noodles Recipe basic.
So there you have it! Remember, cooking should be fun. Don't be afraid to experiment. Making Homemade Lo Mein could be your new favorite thing to do!. You've got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I stop my lo mein noodles from sticking together? Nobody wants a noodle brick!
Ah, the dreaded noodle brick! To prevent this, toss your cooked and drained lo mein noodles with a tablespoon of vegetable oil immediately. This creates a barrier and keeps them separate. Also, don't overcook them! Aim for al dente, just like a proper Italian pasta dish.
Can I make lo mein ahead of time? I'm thinking meal prep, like a sensible sort.
You can indeed, but with a couple of caveats. The noodles tend to absorb the sauce over time, so they might be a bit softer than freshly made lo mein. Store the lo mein in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
When reheating, you might need to add a splash of broth to loosen things up no one wants a dry lo mein, right?
What's the best protein to use when learning how to prepare lo mein? Chicken, pork, shrimp, or tofu?
Chicken is a great place to start when you learn how to prepare lo mein, as it's readily available, cooks quickly, and takes on flavor well. Pork tenderloin is another good option. Shrimp is also delicious but needs to be watched carefully to avoid overcooking.
Tofu is brilliant for a vegetarian version; just make sure to press it well to remove excess water before marinating and stir frying.
I'm a vegetarian. What can I use instead of oyster sauce in the lo mein sauce?
No worries, there are vegetarian alternatives! You can find vegetarian "oyster sauce" made from mushrooms at many Asian grocery stores or online. Alternatively, you can use a combination of soy sauce and hoisin sauce about 1 tablespoon of each should do the trick.
It won't be exactly the same, but it will still deliver that umami flavor you're after.
How can I spice up my lo mein? I like a bit of a kick, like a Nando's fiend.
Alright, spice fiend! The easiest way to add heat is to add a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce or sriracha to the sauce mixture. You could also sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the wok while you're sautéing the vegetables.
For an extra layer of flavor, try using chili infused oil instead of regular vegetable oil.
Is lo mein healthy? I'm trying to be good, but it's so yummy.
Lo mein can be part of a healthy diet, but portion control is key. It's relatively high in carbohydrates and sodium. To make it healthier, load up on the vegetables, use lean protein, and be mindful of the amount of sauce you use soy sauce can be quite high in sodium.
You could also opt for whole wheat noodles for added fiber.
Better Than Takeout Lo Mein A Weeknight Winner
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 550-650 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 20-25g |
| Fiber | 3-5g |