You can easily whip up a delicious Lo Mein at home with just a few ingredients. Start by cooking 8 oz of egg noodles until al dente. Sauté your choice of cooked protein—like chicken or tofu—with a mix of colorful veggies such as bell peppers and snap peas. Add minced garlic and grated ginger for flavor. Toss everything together with a sauce made from soy sauce, sesame oil, and optional oyster sauce. Cook over high heat for a quick, satisfying meal. If you're curious about tips for the perfect stir-fry or ingredient variations, there's more to explore.
Key Takeaways
- Cook 8 oz of egg noodles al dente, then drain and rinse with cold water before adding to your stir-fry.
- Sauté your choice of protein, such as chicken or tofu, until browned and cooked through before adding vegetables.
- Incorporate a mix of sliced bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and snap peas for a colorful and nutritious dish.
- Combine 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, garlic, and ginger to create a flavorful sauce.
- Stir-fry all ingredients over high heat for quick cooking while maintaining the vegetables' crispness and flavor.
History

When you plunge into the history of lo mein, you'll discover that this beloved dish has deep roots in Chinese cuisine.
Originating from the Cantonese region, lo mein translates to "tossed noodles," reflecting its preparation method. It dates back to the Tang Dynasty, where noodles became staples in Chinese diets.
Initially, it was a simple dish, made with wheat flour and served with various toppings. Over time, it evolved, incorporating vegetables, meats, and sauces, showcasing the diversity of flavors in Chinese cooking.
As Chinese immigrants spread across the globe, lo mein adapted to local tastes while retaining its core identity.
Today, it's a popular choice in many Chinese restaurants, celebrated for its comforting taste and versatility.
Recipe

Lo Mein is a popular Chinese dish that features soft, chewy noodles tossed with a variety of colorful vegetables and often a protein, such as chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu. This dish isn't only delicious but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your preferences.
The key to a great lo mein lies in the combination of fresh ingredients, a flavorful sauce, and the perfect cooking technique to achieve those signature slippery noodles.
To make a classic lo mein, you'll need egg noodles that are cooked until just tender, then stir-fried with vegetables and your choice of protein in a savory sauce. The sauce typically consists of soy sauce, sesame oil, and other seasonings that enhance the dish's overall flavor. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or for impressing guests with a homemade Asian-inspired meal.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz egg noodles
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup snap peas
- 2 cups cooked protein (chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions:
Start by cooking the egg noodles according to package instructions until they're al dente, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant.
Add the sliced bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and snap peas, stir-frying for about 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Incorporate the cooked protein and noodles, then pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through, ensuring the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Extra Tips:
For the best flavor, use high-quality soy sauce and sesame oil.
Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or proteins based on what you have on hand.
If you prefer a spicier dish, add some red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.
It's also helpful to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking, as stir-frying is a quick process that requires your full attention.
Enjoy your homemade lo mein!
Cooking Steps

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's get cooking!
Start by boiling the noodles until they're tender, then move on to adding your favorite vegetables and stir-frying them together.
Finally, toss in your sauce and protein of choice for a delicious finish.
Step 1. Boil Noodles Until Tender

To make the perfect lo mein, you'll want to boil the noodles until they're tender but still have a slight bite.
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, carefully add your lo mein noodles, stirring gently to prevent sticking.
Follow the package instructions for cooking time, usually around 3 to 5 minutes. Keep an eye on the noodles, tasting them a minute or two before the suggested time to check for doneness. You want them al dente, not mushy.
Once they're ready, drain the noodles in a colander and rinse them briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process. This step guarantees they maintain that perfect texture for your lo mein.
Step 2. Add Vegetables and Stir-Fry

With the noodles prepared, it's time to enhance your lo mein with vibrant vegetables.
Start by heating a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Toss in your choice of chopped vegetables—think bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and snap peas.
Stir-fry them for about 3-5 minutes until they're tender yet crisp. Make sure to stir frequently, ensuring even cooking and preventing sticking.
If you like a bit of heat, you can add some sliced chili or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes at this stage.
Once the veggies are cooked to your liking, you're ready to move on to the next steps of adding sauce and tossing everything together for a delicious finish.
Step 3. Add Sauce and Toss

Drizzle your prepared sauce over the stir-fried vegetables, ensuring an even coating.
Stir everything together gently, letting the sauce envelop the veggies. As you toss, make sure every piece gets a taste of that delicious flavor. The heat from the pan will help the sauce thicken slightly and meld with the vegetables, creating a wonderful aroma.
Keep stirring for about two minutes, allowing the sauce to blend well, but don't overcook; you want the vegetables to stay crisp.
Once everything's well combined, taste a piece to check the seasoning. If needed, you can adjust with a little more soy sauce or seasoning.
Now, you're almost ready to enjoy your homemade lo mein!
Step 4. Add Protein of Choice

Now that your vegetables are perfectly coated in sauce, it's time to add your protein of choice. You can go with sliced chicken, shrimp, tofu, or beef—whatever you're in the mood for!
If you're using raw protein, make sure to cook it through first before adding it to the pan. For pre-cooked options, just toss them in to heat up.
Stir everything together, allowing the sauce to cling to the protein as well. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring everything is well combined and heated evenly.
If you want extra flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or a sprinkle of garlic powder while mixing. This step enhances the dish and brings all the flavors together beautifully.
Step 5. Serve With Sesame Seeds

After mixing in your protein, it's time to finish off your lo mein with a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Grab your toasted sesame seeds, as they'll add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. You don't need a lot—just a tablespoon or two will do.
Gently toss the seeds into your lo mein, ensuring they evenly coat the dish. This step not only enhances the taste but also gives your meal an appealing presentation.
If you like, you can also add a few fresh chopped scallions for extra color and flavor.
Once everything's combined, serve immediately while it's hot. Enjoy your delicious lo mein, enriched with the perfect finishing touch of sesame seeds!
Final Thoughts

As you wrap up your culinary adventure with this lo mein recipe, reflect on how simple ingredients can come together to create a delicious meal.
You've mastered the art of stir-frying, balancing flavors, and customizing your dish to suit your taste.
Remember, the beauty of lo mein lies in its versatility; feel free to experiment with different vegetables and proteins. Each modification can lead to a unique twist that keeps this dish exciting.
Don't forget to share your creation with friends and family—they'll appreciate the effort you put in.
Finally, enjoy the satisfaction of knowing you can whip up a restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen.
Happy cooking, and keep exploring new recipes to broaden your culinary skills!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Gluten-Free Noodles for Lo Mein?
Absolutely, you can use gluten-free noodles for your dish!
Just make sure to choose a type that holds up well in stir-frying, like rice noodles or gluten-free pasta.
Since gluten-free noodles can have different textures, you might need to adjust your cooking time.
Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking, and feel free to experiment with flavors and sauces to complement your gluten-free noodles.
Enjoy your meal!
What Vegetables Pair Well With Lo Mein?
When you're thinking about vegetables that pair well with your dish, consider vibrant options like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas.
Carrots add a nice crunch, while baby corn brings a touch of sweetness. You might also enjoy incorporating mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
Spinach or bok choy can add a revitalizing element too. Tossing in these veggies not only enhances the taste but also boosts the nutritional value of your meal.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Lo Mein?
You can store leftover lo mein in the refrigerator for about 3 to 5 days.
Just make certain to place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing it, where it can last up to 2-3 months.
When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat thoroughly to guarantee it's safe to eat.
Just don't let those tasty leftovers go to waste!
Is Lo Mein Typically Spicy or Mild?
When you think about lo mein, it's usually mild.
Most recipes focus on savory flavors rather than heat, using ingredients like soy sauce, vegetables, and proteins.
However, you can easily adjust the spice level to your taste.
If you want some heat, consider adding chili oil or fresh peppers.
Ultimately, it's all about your preference, so feel free to experiment and make it as spicy or mild as you like!
Can I Substitute Soy Sauce With Another Sauce?
Yes, you can definitely substitute soy sauce with another sauce!
If you're looking for a similar flavor, try tamari or coconut aminos. They'll give your dish a rich taste without the gluten.
For a different twist, consider using teriyaki sauce or even Worcestershire sauce, but keep in mind that these might alter the overall flavor profile.
Experimenting with different sauces can lead to delicious new creations, so don't hesitate to get creative!