What To Know
- Add a splash of rice vinegar to the sauce for a tangy touch.
- Lo mein is often served as a main course or as a side dish alongside other Chinese dishes.
- With a little practice and the right ingredients, you can master the art of making lo mein chinese noodles at home.
Lo mein, a beloved Chinese dish, tantalizes taste buds with its flavorful noodles, savory sauce, and an array of tantalizing ingredients. While the prospect of making lo mein at home may seem daunting, this comprehensive guide will break it down into manageable steps, empowering you to create this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
Noodles
- 1 pound fresh or dried lo mein noodles
Sauce
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vegetable oil
Vegetables
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1 cup chopped onion
Protein (optional)
- 1 pound cooked chicken, beef, or shrimp
Instructions
Prepare the Noodles
1. If using fresh noodles, rinse them under cold water.
2. If using dried noodles, cook them according to the package directions.
3. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
Make the Sauce
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, sesame oil, and cornstarch.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour the sauce into the skillet and bring it to a simmer.
4. Cook the sauce for 1-2 minutes, or until it thickens.
Sauté the Vegetables
1. Add the carrots, celery, green bell pepper, and onion to the skillet.
2. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp.
Add the Protein (optional)
1. If desired, add the cooked protein to the skillet and stir to combine.
Combine the Noodles and Sauce
1. Add the noodles to the skillet with the vegetables and protein.
2. Pour the sauce over the noodles and stir to coat.
3. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the noodles are heated through.
Serve
1. Transfer the lo mein to a serving bowl or plate.
2. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions, if desired.
Tips
- For a richer flavor, use dark soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce.
- Add a splash of rice vinegar to the sauce for a tangy touch.
- If you don’t have cornstarch, you can use flour instead. Just be sure to whisk it into the sauce thoroughly.
- Lo mein is a versatile dish that can be customized to your liking. Feel free to add other vegetables, proteins, or sauces.
Variations
- Vegetarian Lo Mein: Omit the protein and add extra tofu or vegetables.
- Spicy Lo Mein: Add a teaspoon of chili powder or Sriracha to the sauce.
- Seafood Lo Mein: Use shrimp, scallops, or other seafood instead of meat.
- Noodle-less Lo Mein: Replace the noodles with a bed of rice or stir-fried vegetables.
Culinary Inspiration
Lo mein’s origins can be traced back to northern China, where it is a staple dish. The name “lo mein” literally means “tossed noodles,” referring to the way the noodles are combined with the sauce and ingredients. Lo mein is often served as a main course or as a side dish alongside other Chinese dishes.
The Final Verdict
With a little practice and the right ingredients, you can master the art of making lo mein chinese noodles at home. This delicious and versatile dish is sure to impress your family and friends, and it will become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What type of noodles should I use for lo mein?
A: Fresh or dried lo mein noodles are the best choice.
Q: Can I use other vegetables in my lo mein?
A: Yes, you can add any vegetables you like, such as broccoli, snow peas, or zucchini.
Q: How can I make my lo mein more flavorful?
A: Use dark soy sauce, add a splash of rice vinegar, or experiment with different sauces.
