Homemade Chow Mein: Your Quick & Easy Guide to Authentic Chinese Takeout at Home
Craving the savory, satisfying flavors of your favorite Chinese takeout? Look no further! This incredibly easy chow mein recipe brings the magic of a restaurant-quality dish right into your kitchen. In just 20 minutes, you can combine perfectly stir-fried noodles with a vibrant mix of fresh cabbage, crisp carrots, crunchy bean sprouts, and aromatic green onions, all coated in a rich, savory oyster-soy sauce. Get ready to impress your family and friends with the best homemade Chinese takeout experience, without the wait or the fuss!
Why This Homemade Chow Mein Recipe Works
Chow mein is a beloved Chinese staple, famous for its stir-fried noodles, crisp vegetables, and often, succulent meats. The secret to an outstanding chow mein lies in its sauce – a harmonious blend of savory and sometimes subtly sweet notes that coats every strand of noodle and every piece of vegetable. Our homemade chow mein recipe truly shines because it simplifies this classic dish without sacrificing its authentic flavor or texture.
This recipe works exceptionally well for several reasons:
- Speed and Simplicity: In just 20 minutes, you can have a complete, satisfying meal on the table. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful but don’t have hours to spend cooking.
- Perfectly Balanced Sauce: We’ve carefully crafted a robust chow mein sauce using a combination of rich oyster sauce, umami-packed soy sauce, aromatic sesame oil, a touch of dark maple syrup for sweetness and glaze, savory vegetable stock, a hint of brown sugar, and a kick from Asian chili sauce. A small amount of cornstarch ensures the sauce thickens perfectly to cling to the noodles and veggies. This balance ensures a complex, mouth-watering flavor profile in every bite.
- Fresh and Flavorful Vegetables: The recipe utilizes fresh garlic, crunchy cabbage, sweet carrots, delicate bean sprouts, and sharp green onions. These ingredients are stir-fried to retain their vibrant colors and crisp textures, adding both nutrition and delightful contrast to the soft noodles.
- Customizable to Your Liking: While delicious on its own, this chow mein is incredibly versatile. It serves as an excellent base for adding your favorite proteins like chicken, beef, pork, shrimp, or tofu, allowing you to tailor it to your dietary preferences or what you have on hand.
While chow mein is often enjoyed as a fantastic side dish alongside Chinese entrees like General Tso’s Chicken or Chinese pepper steak, its hearty nature and rich flavors also make it a wonderful main course all on its own. Skip the expensive and often greasy takeout and discover how simple and rewarding it is to create this Chinese classic right in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You Will Need for the Best Homemade Chow Mein
Crafting delicious chow mein begins with selecting the right ingredients. This recipe calls for a simple yet powerful combination of fresh produce, specific noodles, and a rich, flavorful sauce that forms the heart of the dish. Below, you’ll find an overview of the key components. For precise measurements and detailed instructions, refer to the printable recipe card at the end of this post.
You’ll need essential stir-fry noodles, a medley of fresh, crisp vegetables, and a few pantry staples to create our signature savory sauce. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the layers of flavor and texture that make this chow mein so irresistible.
Ingredient Info and Substitution Suggestions
Understanding your ingredients and knowing how to make smart substitutions can elevate your cooking experience and ensure a delicious meal every time.
- NOODLES – The star of chow mein! You’ll want to look for actual “chow mein noodles” or stir-fry noodles, often found in the international aisle or sometimes even the pasta section of your grocery store. These noodles are typically dried and need to be cooked according to package directions before stir-frying. After cooking and draining, Chef Antoine, a seasoned culinary expert, suggests tossing the noodles with a small amount of olive oil. This simple trick prevents them from sticking together, ensuring individual, perfectly separated strands in your final dish. While you can use other Asian noodles like ramen (without the seasoning packet) or even spaghetti in a pinch, authentic chow mein noodles provide the best texture.
- VEGETABLES – This recipe uses a classic combination of cabbage, carrots, bean sprouts, and green onions, which provide a wonderful balance of crunch and fresh flavor. However, chow mein is incredibly flexible! Feel free to customize your dish with your favorite vegetables. Excellent additions include sliced celery for extra crunch, tender broccoli florets, sweet baby corn, crisp snap peas, water chestnuts for a unique texture, or nutrient-rich bok choy. The key is to cut them into similar sizes to ensure even cooking during the quick stir-fry.
- SAUCE COMPONENTS – Our savory sauce is the heart of this dish:
- Oyster Sauce: Provides a deep, complex umami flavor that is characteristic of many Chinese dishes. If you need a vegetarian alternative, look for vegetarian oyster sauce (often made from mushrooms).
- Soy Sauce: The primary source of saltiness and a fundamental umami builder. Use regular or low-sodium soy sauce based on your preference.
- Sesame Oil: Adds a distinct nutty aroma and flavor. A little goes a long way!
- Dark Maple Syrup & Brown Sugar: These add a touch of sweetness that balances the savory notes and helps create that desirable glossy finish on the noodles. You can adjust the amount to your sweetness preference or substitute with honey.
- Vegetable Stock: Adds liquid to the sauce and contributes to its overall depth. Chicken or beef broth can also be used if you’re adding meat.
- Asian Chili Sauce: (e.g., Sriracha, sambal oelek) For a subtle kick or a fiery punch, depending on how much you add. Omit if you prefer no spice.
- Cornstarch: Crucial for thickening the sauce, ensuring it coats the noodles and vegetables beautifully without being watery.
- PROTEIN ADDITIONS – As mentioned in the FAQ, you can easily add protein. Thinly sliced chicken breast or thighs, beef strips (flank or sirloin), pork, shrimp, or even firm tofu cubes are excellent choices. Cook your chosen protein separately first, until nearly done, then set it aside and add it back to the wok at the very end to combine with the noodles and vegetables.
How to Make Easy Homemade Chow Mein
These step by step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe. You can Jump to Recipe to get the printable version of this recipe, complete with measurements and instructions at the bottom.
Making homemade chow mein is a straightforward process that yields incredibly delicious results. Follow these simple steps for a perfect stir-fry:
- Prepare the Noodles: Begin by cooking your chow mein noodles according to the package directions. It’s crucial not to overcook them, as they will be stir-fried later. Once cooked al dente, drain them thoroughly and rinse them in cold water to stop the cooking process and remove excess starch. Set them aside, ideally tossed lightly with a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Whisk the Sauce: In a medium-sized bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients: oyster sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, dark maple syrup, vegetable stock, brown sugar, Asian chili sauce, and cornstarch. Whisk vigorously until all ingredients are well combined and the cornstarch has dissolved, ensuring a smooth, lump-free sauce. This step is essential for a consistent flavor throughout your dish.
- Heat the Wok: Place a wok (or a large, deep skillet) over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat until it is shimmering. A hot wok is key for a proper stir-fry, ensuring vegetables cook quickly and retain their crispness.
- Sauté the Initial Vegetables: Add the chopped cabbage and julienned carrots to the hot wok. Sauté for 2-3 minutes. You want the carrots to just begin to tenderize and the cabbage to soften slightly, but still retain a good bite. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to maintain high heat.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic. Toss until combined with the vegetables and cook for another minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
- Add Noodles: Introduce the cooked and prepared noodles to the wok. Using tongs or a large spatula, toss everything together thoroughly, ensuring the vegetables are evenly distributed among the noodles.
- Pour in the Sauce: Carefully pour the whisked sauce over the noodles and vegetables in the wok. Continue to toss and stir constantly, ensuring that every noodle and every piece of vegetable is thoroughly coated in the rich, glossy sauce. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly and evenly coats the entire mixture, typically about 1-2 minutes.
- Incorporate Bean Sprouts: Add the drained bean sprouts. Toss gently to combine and cook for just one more minute. The goal is to warm them through while retaining their delightful crunch.
- Finish with Green Onions: Finally, add the chopped green onions. Toss to combine them with the hot noodles and vegetables. The residual heat will slightly soften them while keeping their fresh, pungent flavor.
- Serve Immediately: Remove the wok from the heat and serve your delicious homemade chow mein hot. Enjoy your quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal!
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips
While both chow mein and lo mein are popular Chinese noodle dishes made with wheat flour noodles, their preparation and texture are distinct. The term “chow mein” literally translates to “fried noodles,” implying that the noodles are stir-fried, often until they have a slightly crispy texture. “Lo mein” translates to “tossed noodles,” where the noodles are typically boiled until soft and then tossed with the sauce and other ingredients, resulting in a softer, chewier texture. Chow mein noodles are often purchased dried and then cooked before being stir-fried with the other ingredients, while lo mein noodles are usually pre-soaked or fresh, and ready to be tossed directly into the wok with minimal additional cooking. It really comes down to preference between the two! If you’re looking for a lo mein recipe instead, check out our beef lo mein.
Storing leftover chow mein is easy! Allow the dish to cool completely to room temperature first. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Properly stored, your homemade chow mein will remain fresh and delicious for 3-4 days. This makes it an excellent option for meal prepping throughout the week.
Reheating chow mein is simple, and you have a couple of good options. For a quick reheat, use the microwave until it’s warmed through. To prevent the noodles from drying out and to restore some moisture, I sometimes add a few drops of water or a tiny splash of broth before microwaving. Alternatively, for a slightly crisper texture more akin to freshly made, reheat it in a skillet over medium heat with a pinch of olive oil or sesame oil. Stir constantly until heated through and the noodles regain a bit of their stir-fried char.
Absolutely! Adding protein is a fantastic way to make this chow mein a more complete and hearty meal. You can use chicken, beef, pork, shrimp, or even plant-based options like tofu. Here’s how to do it: slice your protein of choice into thin strips (for meats) or cubes (for tofu), stir-fry style. Brown the protein in your skillet or wok first, cooking it until it’s nearly done. Then, remove it from the pan and set it aside. Proceed with the recipe by sautéing your vegetables and noodles. Once all the other ingredients are cooked through and the sauce has been added, return the cooked protein to the skillet. Toss everything together to combine and heat through, allowing the protein to absorb the delicious flavors of the sauce. This method ensures your protein is perfectly cooked and doesn’t get overcooked or soggy.
For authentic chow mein, look for Chinese egg noodles that are labeled “chow mein noodles” or “stir-fry noodles.” These are typically thin, often dried, and made from wheat flour and egg. They provide the ideal texture that can crisp up slightly when stir-fried. If you can’t find specific chow mein noodles, other thin wheat noodles or even ramen noodles (discarding the seasoning packet) can work as a substitute, but the texture might be slightly different.
Yes, easily! To make this chow mein vegetarian, simply ensure your oyster sauce is a vegetarian version (usually mushroom-based). Most other ingredients are already plant-based. For a vegan version, in addition to using vegetarian oyster sauce, ensure your noodles are egg-free. You can also add extra vegetables or plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh for a more substantial meal.
Chow Mein is a classic Chinese dish, with its origins tracing back to northern China, particularly the Shandong province. The term “Chow Mein” itself is a romanization of the Taishanese or Cantonese pronunciation of the Mandarin characters “chǎo miàn” (炒麵), which literally means “stir-fried noodles.” It evolved as a practical and delicious way to prepare noodles with various leftover meats and vegetables, becoming a staple in Chinese cuisine and a hugely popular dish in Chinese restaurants worldwide, especially in North America.
The Art of the Stir-Fry: Tips for Success
Mastering the stir-fry technique is key to achieving perfectly cooked chow mein. Here are some expert tips to ensure your dish is flavorful and perfectly textured every time:
- High Heat is Essential: Stir-frying relies on high heat to quickly cook ingredients, giving them a slight char and retaining their crispness. Make sure your wok or skillet is piping hot before adding oil and ingredients.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking too many ingredients at once lowers the pan’s temperature, leading to steaming instead of stir-frying. If you’re making a larger batch, cook vegetables and noodles in smaller portions and then combine them at the end.
- Mise en Place: This French culinary term means “everything in its place.” Have all your ingredients prepped, chopped, and measured before you start cooking. Stir-fries cook very quickly, so there’s no time to chop while the pan is hot.
- Cut Uniformly: Ensure your vegetables and any protein are cut into similar, bite-sized pieces. This promotes even cooking and makes for a more pleasant eating experience.
- Keep Stirring: As the name suggests, stir-frying involves constant stirring. This ensures even cooking and prevents burning.
Customizing Your Chow Mein for Endless Deliciousness
One of the joys of cooking chow mein at home is the endless possibilities for customization. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe truly your own!
- Add More Vegetables: Beyond the core ingredients, consider adding thinly sliced bell peppers (any color), mushrooms, snow peas, broccoli florets, or even bamboo shoots for extra crunch and nutrition.
- Spice It Up (or Down): If you love heat, increase the amount of Asian chili sauce or add a pinch of red pepper flakes. For a milder flavor, simply omit the chili sauce entirely. A dash of white pepper can also add a subtle, traditional warmth.
- Different Noodles: While we recommend specific chow mein noodles, if you prefer a softer texture, lo mein noodles work well. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Garlic and Ginger Power: This recipe uses minced garlic, but adding a teaspoon of freshly grated ginger alongside the garlic will introduce another layer of authentic Asian flavor.
- A Touch of Citrus: A small squeeze of lime or lemon juice just before serving can brighten the flavors and add a refreshing zing.
Meal Prep and Storage for Ultimate Convenience
This easy chow mein recipe is not only fast to make but also fantastic for meal prepping. Here’s how you can prepare ahead and ensure fresh-ttasting leftovers:
- Vegetable Prep: Chop all your vegetables (cabbage, carrots, green onions) in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for 2-3 days, ready to be tossed into the wok.
- Sauce Prep: Whisk together all the sauce ingredients in a jar or container with a lid. Store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good shake before using.
- Noodle Prep: You can cook and rinse the noodles a day in advance. Toss them lightly with a tiny bit of olive oil to prevent sticking, then store them in a sealed bag or container in the fridge.
- Leftover Storage: As mentioned, cooled chow mein keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It’s perfect for packed lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
- Freezing: While chow mein can be frozen, the texture of the noodles and vegetables might change slightly upon thawing, becoming softer. If freezing, use a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Reheat from frozen or thawed in a skillet, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen if needed.
Serving Suggestions
The versatility of chow mein makes it an ideal dish for many occasions. Serve it as a satisfying main course on its own, especially if you’ve added protein, or as a flavorful side dish to complement a larger Asian-inspired feast. It’s delicious both warm and even slightly chilled, making it a great option for picnics or packed lunches.
For a complete and well-rounded meal, consider pairing your chow mein with:
- Chicken Dishes: Classic choices like General Tso’s Chicken, Kung Pao Chicken, or Sesame Chicken.
- Beef Dishes: Complement with Chinese Pepper Steak or Szechuan Beef.
- Vegetarian Options: For a delightful vegetarian-friendly main dish to pair with chow mein, try our Sticky Garlic Cauliflower or General Tso’s Cauliflower.
- Soups: A light broth-based soup like Egg Drop Soup makes for a perfect starter.
More Chinese Inspired Recipes You’ll Love
If you enjoyed this homemade chow mein, you’re sure to love these other delicious Chinese-inspired dishes that are perfect for weeknights or special occasions:
- Sesame Chicken
- Beef Lo Mein
- Egg Drop Soup
- Szechuan Beef
- Kung Pao Chicken
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Chow Mein
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 6 ounces chow mein stir fry noodles
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 1 Tablespoon minced garlic
- 2 cups cabbage chopped, measured after chopping
- 1 cup carrots julienned, measured after chopping
- ½ cup bean sprouts canned, drained
- 1 cup green onions chopped
Sauce
- ¼ cup oyster sauce
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 1 ½ Tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 Tablespoons dark maple syrup
- ½ cup vegetable stock
- 1 Tablespoon brown sugar
- ½ Tablespoon Asian chili sauce
- 1 Tablespoon cornstarch
Things You’ll Need
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Wok or large skillet
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Wooden spoon
Before You Begin
- After cooking and draining the noodles, Chef Antoine suggests tossing the noodles with a small amount of olive oil to keep them from sticking together.
- Store leftover chow mein in an air-tight container kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
- Reheat in the microwave until warmed through or in a skillet over medium heat with a pinch of olive oil. When reheating in the microwave, I sometimes add a few drops of water to remoisten the noodles and other ingredients, but it’s not completely necessary.
- You can add a protein to this dish whether that be chicken, beef, pork, shrimp, and even tofu. I would recommend slicing the protein of choice into thin strips, stir fry style, and browning it in the skillet or wok, then set it aside until all the other ingredients are cooked through. Add the protein back to the skillet at the end.
Instructions
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Cook chow mein noodles according to package directions. Drain, rinse in cold water, and set aside.
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In a medium bowl, whisk to combine all sauce ingredients.
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In a wok over medium high heat, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil until shimmering.
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Add cabbage and carrots and saute for 2-3 minutes, until carrots begin to get tender and cabbage softens a little.
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Add garlic, toss until combined and cook another minute.
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Add cooked noodles and toss to combine.
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Add sauce and toss to combine.
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Add bean sprouts and toss to combine, cooking one more minute.
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Add green onions, toss to combine.
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Remove from heat and serve.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.