Quick & Easy Lo Mein

Thick noodles stir fried with colorful vegetables in a savory sauce make this Quick & Easy Lo Mein a delightful dish ready in just 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or as a delicious side dish, this recipe is not only better-than-takeout but also saves you money! With its vibrant veggies and rich flavors, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast Preparation: This dish takes only 20 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for quick dinners.
• Flavorful Sauce: The combination of soy and oyster sauces gives the lo mein a savory flavor that rivals your favorite takeout.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins to personalize your lo mein.
• Healthier Option: Packed with fresh vegetables, it’s a nutritious choice compared to typical restaurant offerings.
• Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make cooking your Quick & Easy Lo Mein easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Strainer
• Wooden spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large skillet: A spacious cooking surface allows for easy tossing of ingredients without spilling.
• Mixing bowl: Useful for combining sauces thoroughly before adding them to the stir fry.
• Strainer: Helps to quickly drain the cooked lo mein noodles without rinsing, preserving their texture.

Ingredients

Noodles and Vegetables

• 1 lb lo mein noodles (fresh kind or substitute with miki noodles or cooked spaghetti)
• 1 cup napa cabbage (chopped)
• 1 cup red bell pepper (julienned)
• ¾ cup snow peas (ends trimmed)
• ½ cup carrot (julienned)
• 4 button mushrooms (sliced)
• 1 green onion (finely chopped)

Sauces and Oils

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
• 2 tablespoons regular soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (or vegetarian stir fry sauce)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

Other Ingredients

• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• ½ tablespoon cornstarch (or potato starch/tapioca starch)
• ¼ cup chicken stock (low sodium or beef/vegetable stock)

How to Make Quick & Easy Lo Mein

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine all sauce ingredients as listed above. Set aside while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Soak the Noodles

Soak lo mein noodles in hot boiling water for 15-20 seconds until they are loosened and al dente.

Step 3: Drain Noodles

Strain noodles immediately and set them aside. Do not rinse off with water; this keeps them from becoming sticky.

Step 4: Stir Fry the Vegetables

In a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat, heat vegetable oil. Add carrots, red bell pepper, snow peas, mushrooms, and napa cabbage.
– Add ¼ cup or 60 ml cold water to help cook and soften the vegetables.
– Cook for 1-2 minutes until the water in the pan evaporates.

Step 5: Combine Noodles and Sauce

Reduce heat to medium. Add in cooked noodles along with the prepared lo mein sauce.

Step 6: Toss Everything Together

Toss all ingredients together until well combined. Remove from heat, garnish with green onions, and enjoy your delicious Quick & Easy Lo Mein!

How to Serve Quick & Easy Lo Mein

Serving Quick & Easy Lo Mein is an opportunity to showcase its vibrant flavors and textures. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main dish or pairing it with other delights, there are many ways to make it shine.

As a Main Dish

• Serve it hot directly from the skillet for a fresh and steaming meal.
• Top with extra green onions or sesame seeds for added crunch and flavor.

Pairing with Protein

• Add grilled chicken or shrimp on top for a protein-packed meal.
• Use tofu for a vegetarian option that complements the noodles perfectly.

With Extra Sauces

• Offer chili oil on the side for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
• Provide additional soy sauce for guests who prefer more seasoning.

Garnishing Options

• Sprinkle chopped cilantro for an aromatic touch.
• Squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish to enhance the flavors.

Side Salad

• Pair with a light Asian-style salad featuring cucumbers and sesame dressing for a refreshing contrast.

How to Perfect Quick & Easy Lo Mein

To achieve the best results with your Quick & Easy Lo Mein, consider these helpful tips:

• Use fresh noodles: Fresh lo mein noodles provide the best texture and flavor compared to dried varieties.
• Don’t rinse the noodles: Rinsing can wash away starch that helps sauces cling better to your noodles.
• Pre-cut vegetables: Preparing your veggies in advance saves time and ensures even cooking during stir-frying.
• High heat cooking: Stir-frying on high heat maintains the crispness of vegetables and keeps the noodles from becoming mushy.
• Customize your sauce: Feel free to adjust the sauces based on your taste preferences; add more oyster sauce for extra depth.
• Add protein wisely: If adding meat or tofu, ensure they are cooked beforehand to blend seamlessly into the dish.

Best Side Dishes for Quick & Easy Lo Mein

Complementing your Quick & Easy Lo Mein with side dishes enhances your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Egg Rolls: Crispy wrappers filled with seasoned vegetables or meat, perfect for dipping in soy sauce.
2. Spring Rolls: Light and fresh, these rolls can be filled with veggies or shrimp and served cold with sweet chili sauce.
3. Fried Rice: A classic pairing that provides additional flavors and textures, made easily with leftover rice.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli adds color and health benefits to your meal.
5. Wonton Soup: A warm broth accompanied by dumplings makes for a comforting starter before diving into lo mein.
6. Chinese Pickled Vegetables: These tangy sides add a refreshing contrast to savory lo mein, enhancing every bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks encounter pitfalls when preparing Quick & Easy Lo Mein. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using the wrong noodles: Not all noodles are suitable for lo mein. Always opt for fresh lo mein noodles or a good substitute like cooked spaghetti to achieve the right texture.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking your vegetables too long can make them mushy. Stir-fry just until they are tender but still crisp for the best results.
• Skipping the soaking step: If you don’t soak the noodles properly, they will clump together and not mix well with the sauce. Ensure they are only soaked briefly until loosened.
• Not preparing the sauce ahead of time: Failing to mix your sauce before cooking can lead to uneven flavor distribution. Prepare the sauce in advance and set it aside for easy incorporation.
• Ignoring garnishes: Skipping garnishes like green onions can diminish presentation and flavor. Always finish your dish with fresh herbs or scallions for an extra pop.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the lo mein to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Quick & Easy Lo Mein

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Separate portions with parchment paper if freezing in bulk.

Reheating Quick & Easy Lo Mein

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place lo mein in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until heated through. Cover lightly to retain moisture.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth in a skillet over medium heat, tossing frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Quick & Easy Lo Mein that might help aspiring cooks.

What type of noodles should I use for Quick & Easy Lo Mein?

For Quick & Easy Lo Mein, fresh lo mein noodles work best. Alternatively, cooked spaghetti can be a good substitute if fresh noodles aren’t available.

Can I customize my Quick & Easy Lo Mein?

Absolutely! You can add your favorite proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tofu and any vegetables you prefer or have on hand.

Is Quick & Easy Lo Mein vegetarian-friendly?

Yes! Simply use vegetarian oyster sauce or omit it altogether for a delicious vegetarian version of this dish.

How long does it take to prepare Quick & Easy Lo Mein?

This recipe takes about 20 minutes total—15 minutes for prep and 5 minutes for cooking!

Final Thoughts

Quick & Easy Lo Mein is not just a fantastic meal; it’s also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different vegetables and proteins based on what’s available. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Give it a try!