What To Know
- This blog post will provide a comprehensive guide on how to make lo mein out of ramen, offering a delicious and budget-friendly alternative.
- You can also add a teaspoon of chicken bouillon granules to the water to enhance the flavor.
- Leftover lo mein can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Lo mein, a classic Chinese noodle dish known for its savory sauce and springy noodles, can now be easily recreated using the humble ramen noodle. This blog post will provide a comprehensive guide on how to make lo mein out of ramen, offering a delicious and budget-friendly alternative.
Ingredients
- 1 package (3 ounces) ramen noodles
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 1/2 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 carrot, chopped
- 1/4 cup frozen peas
- Optional: protein of choice (chicken, beef, tofu)
Instructions
1. Cook the Ramen Noodles
- Cook the ramen noodles according to the package directions.
- Drain the noodles and rinse them with cold water to remove excess starch.
2. Prepare the Sauce
- In a separate bowl, combine the soy sauce and chicken broth. Set aside.
3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
- Add the onion, bell peppers, and carrots. Cook until they are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the peas and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add the Ramen Noodles
- Add the cooked ramen noodles to the skillet.
- Toss to combine with the vegetables.
5. Pour in the Sauce
- Pour the reserved sauce over the noodles and vegetables.
- Stir-fry until the noodles are evenly coated and the sauce has thickened, about 2 minutes.
6. Add Protein (Optional)
- If desired, add cooked protein of your choice to the lo mein.
- Stir to combine.
7. Serve
- Transfer the lo mein to a serving bowl.
- Garnish with additional vegetables or sesame seeds, if desired.
Tips for Success
- Use high-quality ramen noodles for the best flavor.
- If you don’t have chicken broth, you can substitute it with water.
- Add other vegetables of your choice, such as broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms.
- Adjust the amount of soy sauce to your desired taste.
- Cook the lo mein over high heat to prevent the noodles from becoming mushy.
Variations
- Spicy Lo Mein: Add a teaspoon of chili powder or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Vegetarian Lo Mein: Omit the protein and add more vegetables, such as tofu or edamame.
- Seafood Lo Mein: Add cooked shrimp, scallops, or calamari to the lo mein.
Healthier Options
- Use whole-wheat ramen noodles for added fiber.
- Reduce the amount of oil used to stir-fry.
- Choose lean protein options, such as chicken breast or tofu.
- Load up on vegetables for a nutrient-rich meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any type of ramen noodles?
Yes, you can use any type of ramen noodles you have on hand. However, higher-quality noodles will result in a better-tasting lo mein.
What can I do if I don’t have chicken broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, you can substitute it with water. You can also add a teaspoon of chicken bouillon granules to the water to enhance the flavor.
How long can I store leftover lo mein?
Leftover lo mein can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a microwave or skillet before serving.
