Classic Chinese Chow Mein Recipe
This Classic Chinese Chow Mein recipe features tender chow mein noodles stir-fried with crisp cabbage, fragrant garlic, and a savory blend of soy, sweet soy, and oyster sauces. Quick and easy to make, it delivers authentic flavors in just minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a flavorful side dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients
Scale
Sauces & Oils
- 2 tablespoons canola oil
- 2 tablespoons sweet soy sauce (Kecap Manis)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 4 tablespoons oyster sauce
Vegetables
- 1/4 head cabbage, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed and minced
- 6 ounces bean sprouts (optional)
Pasta & Liquids
- 12 ounces chow mein noodles, cooked a minute shy of package directions
- 1 cup water
Garnish
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the pan: Heat a large pan or wok over high heat until very hot, preparing it for stir-frying.
- Cook the cabbage: Add 2 tablespoons of canola oil to the pan followed by the thinly sliced cabbage. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the cabbage wilts and softens slightly.
- Add garlic: Add the crushed and minced garlic to the pan and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to release its aroma without burning.
- Add sauces and water: Pour in the sweet soy sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and 1 cup of water. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it cook for 1 minute, allowing the flavors to blend and the sauce to slightly thicken.
- Toss in noodles and bean sprouts: Add the cooked chow mein noodles and optional bean sprouts to the pan. Toss everything together thoroughly to evenly coat the noodles with the sauce and heat through.
- Serve immediately: Remove from heat and transfer to serving plates. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired and serve hot for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- For homemade sweet soy sauce substitute, mix 3 tablespoons soy sauce with 1 tablespoon brown sugar and a splash of molasses or honey.
- Be careful not to overcook the noodles to maintain a chewy texture; cook them a minute less than package instructions.
- Bean sprouts are optional but add a nice crunch and freshness to the dish.
- This recipe can be customized with added protein like chicken, beef, or tofu.
Keywords: chow mein, Chinese noodles, stir-fry noodles, easy Chinese recipe, quick dinner, wok recipe
Find it online: https://kitchenbyrita.com/classic-chinese-chow-mein-recipe/
