Craving a taste of authentic Chinese cuisine that you can whip up in just 25 minutes? Look no further than this Classic Chinese Chow Mein recipe! Bursting with vibrant vegetables and perfectly cooked noodles, this dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a flavor explosion that will transport your taste buds straight to the streets of China. Whether you’re a busy professional or a home cook looking to impress, this quick and easy recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Get ready to stir-fry your way to deliciousness!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Chinese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz chow mein noodles
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil. Add the chow mein noodles and cook according to package instructions, typically 3-4 minutes until they are al dente. Drain the noodles in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
- While the noodles are cooking, prepare your vegetables. Slice bell peppers into thin strips, shred carrots using a grater or julienne peeler, and chop green onions into small rings. Ensure bean sprouts are fresh and rinsed.
- Heat a large wok or wide skillet over high heat. Add vegetable oil and allow it to become very hot, creating a slight shimmer on the surface.
- Add sliced bell peppers and shredded carrots to the hot wok. Stir-fry quickly for 2-3 minutes until vegetables are slightly tender but still crisp.
- Add the cooked noodles to the wok, tossing and mixing with the vegetables. Use tongs or two spatulas to ensure even distribution and prevent sticking.
- Pour soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil over the noodles. Continue tossing and mixing to coat all ingredients evenly and allow the sauces to caramelize slightly.
- Add bean sprouts and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, maintaining high heat and constant movement to prevent burning.
- Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions. Transfer to serving plates immediately while hot and serve.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your vegetables and prepare your sauces in advance. This way, you can focus on the cooking process and achieve that perfect stir-fry texture.
- High Heat is Key: Make sure your wok or skillet is very hot before adding the oil. This will help to sear the vegetables quickly, preserving their crunch and vibrant colors.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you're making a larger batch, consider cooking in batches. Overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming rather than stir-frying, which can make your noodles and vegetables soggy.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables! Broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms can add different textures and flavors to your chow mein.
- Sauce it Up: Adjust the amount of soy sauce and oyster sauce to your taste. If you prefer a bolder flavor, add a splash more, but be cautious not to overdo it to keep the dish balanced.
- Serve Immediately: Chow Mein is best enjoyed fresh and hot. Serve it right after cooking for the best texture and flavor!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
