Chow mein, a cornerstone of Chinese cuisine found in virtually every Chinese restaurant around the globe, is as diverse as it is popular. This stir-fried noodle dish, often brimming with a variety of vegetables and your choice of protein, is renowned for its savory flavors and satisfying textures. The term “chow mein” means ‘stir-fried noodles,’ with ‘chow’ meaning ‘stir-fried’ and ‘mein’ meaning ‘noodles’ in Cantonese. It’s a versatile dish that can be tailored to suit any palate, from the spice-lover to those who prefer a milder taste. With its quick cooking time and flexible ingredient list, chow mein is the perfect go-to for a busy weeknight dinner or a delicious way to use up leftover vegetables and meats.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 8 oz chow mein noodles or spaghetti
- 2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (cabbage, carrots, bell peppers)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
- Cook noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
- Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large pan.
- Stir-fry chicken until cooked through; remove and set aside.
- Add garlic and vegetables; stir-fry until crisp-tender.
- Add noodles, chicken, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil.
- Stir-fry everything together until well mixed and heated through.
- Garnish with green onions and serve.
Chow mein is not just a dish; it’s a comforting, filling meal that has captured the hearts of people worldwide.
The origins of chow mein are thought to date back to the Northern Chinese dishes of the same name but have evolved and been adapted by the Chinese diaspora in various countries, particularly in America, where it has become a staple in Chinese-American cuisine.