Craving Chow Mein? Here’s How To Make It With Spaghetti Noodles In Minutes

Chow mein, a popular Chinese noodle dish, is typically made with egg noodles. But what if you don’t have egg noodles on hand? Fear not! With a few simple substitutions, you can easily create a delicious chow mein using spaghetti noodles.

Ingredients

• 1 pound spaghetti noodles
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chopped vegetables (such as carrots, celery, bell peppers)
• 1 cup cooked protein (such as chicken, beef, or tofu)
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions. Drain the spaghetti and set aside.
2. Heat the oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Sauté the onion and garlic: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add the vegetables: Stir in the chopped vegetables and cook until they are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the protein: Add the cooked protein to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil, and black pepper.
7. Add the sauce to the skillet: Pour the sauce over the ingredients in the skillet and stir to coat.
8. Add the spaghetti: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to combine.
9. Cook until heated through: Cook the chow mein for 2-3 minutes, or until the spaghetti is heated through.
10. Serve: Serve the spaghetti chow mein immediately, garnished with green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Variations

• Veggies: Feel free to customize the vegetables you use to your liking. Broccoli, snap peas, and mushrooms are all great additions.
• Protein: Chicken, beef, and tofu are classic choices for chow mein, but you can use any protein you like, such as pork, shrimp, or fish.
• Sauce: If you prefer a sweeter chow mein, add a bit more brown sugar to the sauce. For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Tips

• Use thicker spaghetti noodles: Thicker spaghetti noodles will hold up better to the stir-frying process.
• Don’t overcook the noodles: The noodles should be cooked al dente, or slightly firm to the bite.
• Heat the skillet or wok properly: A hot skillet or wok will help to prevent the noodles from sticking.
• Toss the noodles frequently: This will ensure that the noodles cook evenly and don’t clump together.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet or wok: If you’re using a small skillet or wok, cook the chow mein in batches. Overcrowding the pan will make it difficult to stir-fry the noodles properly.

Health Benefits

Spaghetti chow mein is not only delicious but also offers some health benefits:

• Whole grains: Spaghetti noodles are made from whole grains, which are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
• Vegetables: The vegetables in chow mein provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
• Lean protein: Chicken, beef, and tofu are all lean sources of protein, which can help to build and maintain muscle mass.

Conclusion: Spaghetti Chow Mein for Every Occasion

Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a dish to impress your guests, spaghetti chow mein is a versatile and delicious option. With its customizable ingredients and health benefits, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use other types of noodles besides spaghetti?

A: Yes, you can use any type of noodles you like, such as ramen noodles, udon noodles, or soba noodles.

Q: How can I make my chow mein spicier?

A: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or Sriracha sauce to the sauce.

Q: Can I make chow mein ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can make chow mein ahead of time and reheat it before serving. However, the noodles may become slightly softer the next day.

Q: What are some good side dishes for chow mein?

A: Chow mein pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as fried rice, egg rolls, or spring rolls.

Q: How can I store leftovers?

A: Store leftover chow mein in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.