Easy Homemade Lo Mein: Your Quick & Delicious Recipe

Easy Homemade Lo Mein, that’s right! Forget takeout tonight because I’m about to share a secret weapon that will revolutionize your weeknight dinners. Imagine twirling perfectly sauced noodles around your fork, bursting with savory flavors and fresh vegetables, all made in the comfort of your own kitchen. Sounds too good to be true? Trust me, it’s not!

Lo Mein, a beloved staple of Chinese-American cuisine, has a fascinating history rooted in traditional Chinese noodle dishes. While the exact origins are debated, it’s clear that Lo Mein evolved as Chinese immigrants adapted their culinary traditions to suit American tastes and available ingredients. The result? A comforting and satisfying dish that has captured the hearts (and stomachs!) of millions.

What’s not to love? The beauty of easy homemade Lo Mein lies in its versatility and simplicity. It’s incredibly customizable – you can add your favorite proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tofu, and load it up with a rainbow of vegetables. The combination of tender noodles, flavorful sauce, and crisp-tender veggies creates a symphony of textures and tastes that is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover vegetables lurking in your fridge, making it a budget-friendly and eco-conscious choice. But the best part? It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you crave a delicious and satisfying meal without the fuss.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 pound Lo Mein noodles (fresh or dried)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced (or substitute with shrimp, beef, or tofu)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1/2 cup snow peas
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish
• Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Chicken (or Protein of Choice)

1. First, we’re going to get our chicken ready. In a medium bowl, combine the thinly sliced chicken breasts with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 teaspoon of cornstarch, 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger, and 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the marinade. This will help tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor.
2. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be! While the chicken is marinating, you can prepare the vegetables and the sauce.

Cooking the Noodles

1. While the chicken is marinating, let’s cook the Lo Mein noodles. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Adding salt to the water helps season the noodles from the inside out.
2. Add the Lo Mein noodles to the boiling water and cook according to the package directions. Generally, fresh noodles will cook much faster than dried noodles, so keep a close eye on them. You want them to be cooked through but still slightly firm – al dente.
3. Once the noodles are cooked, drain them immediately in a colander. Don’t let them sit in the hot water, or they will become mushy.
4. Rinse the noodles with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent them from sticking together. This is a crucial step for achieving the perfect Lo Mein texture.
5. Toss the drained noodles with 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. This will further prevent sticking and add a lovely nutty flavor. Set the noodles aside.

Stir-Frying the Chicken and Vegetables

1. Now, let’s get to the stir-frying! Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the wok or skillet is nice and hot before adding the chicken.
2. Add the marinated chicken to the hot wok or skillet and stir-fry until it’s cooked through and lightly browned. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes, depending on the thickness of the chicken slices. Be sure to stir frequently to prevent the chicken from sticking and to ensure even cooking.
3. Remove the cooked chicken from the wok or skillet and set it aside. We’ll add it back in later.
4. Add the sliced red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and onion to the wok or skillet. Stir-fry for about 3-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp. You want them to retain a little bit of crunch.
5. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms to the wok or skillet. Stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic is fragrant and the mushrooms are slightly softened. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
6. Add the shredded carrots and snow peas to the wok or skillet. Stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes, or until they are heated through.

Making the Lo Mein Sauce

1. While the vegetables are stir-frying, let’s prepare the Lo Mein sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, and 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if using). Make sure the brown sugar is completely dissolved.

Combining Everything

1. Now for the grand finale! Add the cooked chicken back to the wok or skillet with the vegetables.
2. Pour the Lo Mein sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce is heated through and evenly coats the chicken and vegetables.
3. Add the cooked Lo Mein noodles to the wok or skillet. Toss everything together until the noodles are well coated with the sauce and the chicken and vegetables are evenly distributed. Use tongs to gently toss the noodles so they don’t break.
4. Continue to stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes, or until everything is heated through and the flavors have melded together.

Serving and Garnishing

1. Remove the Lo Mein from the wok or skillet and transfer it to a serving platter or individual bowls.
2. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions and sesame seeds (if using).
3. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious homemade Lo Mein! This dish is best served hot.

Tips and Variations:

• Protein Options: Feel free to substitute the chicken with shrimp, beef, pork, or tofu. If using shrimp, cook it separately and add it to the wok or skillet towards the end, as it cooks very quickly. For tofu, press out the excess water before stir-frying.
• Vegetable Variations: You can customize the vegetables to your liking. Some other great options include broccoli florets, bok choy, bean sprouts, water chestnuts, and bamboo shoots.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the spice level. If you prefer a milder dish, omit the red pepper flakes altogether. You can also add a dash of sriracha for extra heat.
• Noodle Type: While Lo Mein noodles are traditional, you can also use other types of noodles, such as spaghetti or linguine, in a pinch. Just be sure to cook them al dente.
• Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the chicken and vegetables ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat them in the wok or skillet and add the noodles and sauce.
• Leftovers: Leftover Lo Mein can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free soy sauce and gluten-free noodles to make this dish gluten-free.
• Vegan Option: Substitute the chicken with tofu and use a vegan oyster sauce alternative.

Enjoy your homemade Lo Mein! I hope you find this recipe easy to follow and delicious. Let me know in the comments if you have any questions or suggestions. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This Easy Homemade Lo Mein recipe is truly a game-changer. Forget takeout – you can whip up a batch of this deliciousness faster than you can say “noodles,” and it’ll taste a million times better. Seriously, the combination of fresh ingredients, perfectly cooked noodles, and that savory, slightly sweet sauce is simply irresistible. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures that will have your taste buds singing.

But why is this recipe a must-try? Beyond the incredible taste, it’s the sheer versatility and ease of preparation. We’re talking minimal effort, maximum flavor payoff. You control every ingredient, ensuring a healthier and more satisfying meal than anything you’d get delivered. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover veggies lurking in your fridge. No more food waste!

Looking for serving suggestions? This Lo Mein is fantastic on its own as a complete meal. However, it also pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for an extra protein boost. Consider adding a side of steamed broccoli or a simple cucumber salad for a balanced and satisfying dinner. For a spicier kick, a drizzle of sriracha or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes will do the trick.

Now, let’s talk variations! Feel free to get creative and customize this recipe to your liking. Swap out the soy sauce for tamari for a gluten-free option. Experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers, snow peas, or mushrooms. If you’re a fan of heat, add a chopped chili pepper or a dash of chili oil to the sauce. You can even use different types of noodles – udon, soba, or even spaghetti will work in a pinch! The possibilities are endless.

Serving Suggestions:

• Top with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for added flavor and visual appeal.
• Serve with a side of spring rolls or egg rolls for a complete Asian-inspired feast.
• Add a fried egg on top for a protein-packed and satisfying meal.

Variations:

• Use different types of protein, such as pork, beef, or duck.
• Add different vegetables, such as bok choy, carrots, or bean sprouts.
• Experiment with different sauces, such as hoisin sauce or oyster sauce.

I truly believe that this Easy Homemade Lo Mein will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s quick, easy, delicious, and endlessly customizable. It’s the perfect weeknight meal, a crowd-pleasing party dish, or a comforting lunch to brighten your day.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your wok (or a large skillet), gather your ingredients, and get cooking! I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do. And when you do try it, please, please, please share your experience! I’d love to hear your thoughts, see your creations, and learn about any variations you come up with. Tag me in your photos on social media, leave a comment below, or send me an email. I’m always eager to connect with fellow food lovers and hear about your culinary adventures. Happy cooking, and enjoy your delicious homemade Lo Mein! I can’t wait to hear from you!