Quick & Easy Lo Mein

Thick noodles stir-fried with colorful vegetables in a savory sauce make Quick & Easy Lo Mein a delightful dish for any occasion. In just 20 minutes, you can whip up a meal that’s better than takeout and saves you money! Perfect as a main course or side dish, this recipe caters to busy weeknights and casual gatherings alike. Enjoy the vibrant flavors and satisfying textures that elevate your dining experience!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: You can prepare this delicious lo mein in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings.
• Versatile Dish: Customize it with your favorite proteins or vegetables to suit your taste.
• Budget-Friendly: Save money by making your own lo mein at home instead of ordering takeout.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of sauces and fresh ingredients creates a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love.
• Healthy Option: Loaded with vegetables, this lo mein is not only filling but also nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Quick & Easy Lo Mein, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet or wok
• Small bowl
• Strainer
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet or wok: Ideal for stir-frying, allowing even heat distribution for perfectly cooked noodles and vegetables.
• Strainer: Essential for draining the soaked lo mein noodles without rinsing them off, preserving their flavor.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick and easy chopping of vegetables for your stir-fry.

Ingredients

For the Noodles

• 1 lb lo mein noodles (fresh kind or sub with miki noodles or cooked spaghetti)

For the Vegetables

• 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)

For the Sauce

• 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
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• ½ tablespoon cornstarch (or potato starch/tapioca starch)
• ¼ cup chicken stock (low sodium or beef or 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. Mix well and set aside.

Step 2: Soak the Noodles

Soak the lo mein noodles in hot boiling water for 15-20 seconds until loosened and al dente. Strain the noodles immediately and set aside. Do not rinse off with water.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

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

Step 4: Combine Noodles with Vegetables

Reduce heat to medium. Add in the prepared lo mein noodles along with the sauce you made earlier.

Step 5: Toss Everything Together

Gently toss everything together until well combined. Remove from heat, garnish with green onions, and enjoy your homemade Quick & Easy Lo Mein!

How to Serve Quick & Easy Lo Mein

Quick & Easy Lo Mein is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. You can serve it as a main course or pair it with various sides for a complete meal. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

As a Main Dish

• Serve the lo mein hot, garnished with green onions for a fresh touch.
• Pair with protein like grilled chicken or tofu for added substance.

In a Bowl

• Serve in deep bowls for an inviting presentation.
• Top with sesame seeds and crushed peanuts for extra flavor and crunch.

Family Style

• Present the lo mein in a large serving bowl for everyone to help themselves.
• Offer chopsticks along with forks for a fun dining experience.

With Extra Sauce

• Prepare additional sauce on the side for those who love extra flavor.
• A small bowl of soy sauce or chili oil can complement the lo mein beautifully.

How to Perfect Quick & Easy Lo Mein

To make your Quick & Easy Lo Mein truly outstanding, consider these simple tips. They will enhance both the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Use Fresh Noodles: Fresh lo mein noodles provide the best texture compared to dried ones.
• Don’t Overcook Vegetables: Keep them crisp by cooking only until tender; they should still have some bite.
• High Heat Cooking: Stir-fry on high heat for that classic wok hei flavor, which adds depth to your dish.
• Customize Ingredients: Feel free to swap vegetables based on what you have at home or your preferences.
• Marinate Proteins: If adding meat, marinate it beforehand to infuse more flavor into the dish.
• Taste Before Serving: Always taste your lo mein before serving; adjust seasoning if needed.

Best Side Dishes for Quick & Easy Lo Mein

Pairing side dishes with Quick & Easy Lo Mein can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options that complement the flavors of the noodles nicely.

1. Spring Rolls: Crispy and filled with fresh vegetables, these are perfect for dipping.
2. Egg Drop Soup: A light soup adds warmth and pairs well with the savory noodles.
3. Sesame Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and crunchy, this salad balances the richness of lo mein.
4. Chinese Chicken Salad: A flavorful salad featuring shredded chicken and crunchy veggies enhances your meal’s variety.
5. Fried Rice: A classic Asian side that goes hand-in-hand with lo mein, offering different textures and flavors.
6. Steamed Dumplings: Soft and juicy dumplings complement the stir-fried noodles wonderfully.
7. Hot and Sour Soup: This soup’s bold flavors contrast nicely with the mild lo mein, making for an exciting combination.
8. Broccoli Stir-Fry: Lightly sautéed broccoli adds color and nutrition alongside your noodle dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Quick & Easy Lo Mein can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes is key to achieving the best results.

• Using cold noodles – Always soak your lo mein noodles in hot water briefly before cooking. This ensures they are tender and ready to absorb flavors.
• Overcooking vegetables – Cook vegetables just until they are tender-crisp. This keeps them vibrant and prevents them from becoming mushy.
• Neglecting the sauce balance – Ensure you measure your sauces accurately. Too much soy sauce can make the dish too salty, so follow the recipe closely.
• Skipping garlic – Garlic adds essential flavor to your lo mein. Don’t skip it; instead, add it early in the cooking process for maximum aroma.
• Not garnishing – Garnishes like green onions not only enhance the dish’s appearance but also add fresh flavor. Always garnish before serving for a beautiful presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover lo mein in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Quick & Easy Lo Mein

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags to store portions of lo mein.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Quick & Easy Lo Mein

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place lo mein in an oven-safe dish with a splash of water, cover, and heat for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, add a tablespoon of water, cover loosely, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil and toss the lo mein until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Quick & Easy Lo Mein.

Can I use other types of noodles?

Yes! You can substitute lo mein noodles with miki noodles or even cooked spaghetti for a different texture.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! This recipe can easily be made vegetarian by using vegetarian oyster sauce instead of regular oyster sauce.

How can I customize my Quick & Easy Lo Mein?

Feel free to add proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tofu. You can also include additional veggies like broccoli or bok choy based on your preference.

What sauces pair well with Quick & Easy Lo Mein?

In addition to soy sauce and oyster sauce, you can experiment with hoisin sauce or chili paste for added flavor and heat.

How do I keep my Quick & Easy Lo Mein from being sticky?

Make sure not to rinse the noodles after soaking. Tossing them immediately with oil and sauce helps prevent stickiness.

Final Thoughts

This Quick & Easy Lo Mein recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something flavorful yet simple. It’s versatile enough for customization, allowing you to use whatever vegetables or proteins you have on hand. Give it a try—you’ll love how quickly it comes together!