Lo Mein

Lo Mein is a classic Chinese takeout favorite that’s just as easy to make at home—and even more delicious. With a savory, umami-rich sauce that coats each strand of noodle, this dish is quick, satisfying, and incredibly versatile. Whether you enjoy it as a simple side or a complete main dish with your choice of protein and vegetables, Lo Mein always delivers that comforting, restaurant-quality flavor in under 30 minutes.

The heart of this dish lies in its perfectly balanced sauce—salty from soy and oyster sauces, nutty from sesame oil, and just a hint sweet. Combined with chewy noodles and whatever mix-ins you love, Lo Mein becomes a weeknight go-to that beats takeout any day. It’s ideal for using up leftovers, cleaning out the fridge, or simply whipping up a quick meal that everyone will love. Once you realize how fast and customizable it is, you’ll never go back to waiting for delivery.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy: Comes together in 20 minutes or less.
2. Customizable: Add any protein or veggies you have on hand.
3. Better Than Takeout: Fresher, cleaner ingredients and richer flavor.
4. Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples and simple additions.
5. Meal Prep Friendly: Stores and reheats well for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

Lo Mein Sauce

• Dark soy sauce
• Shaoxing wine
• Soy sauce
• Oyster sauce
• Sesame oil
• Sugar
• White pepper

Variations

• Vegetarian: Skip oyster sauce or use a mushroom-based alternative, and load up on veggies.
• Spicy Kick: Add chili oil, sriracha, or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
• Low-Sodium: Use reduced-sodium soy sauce and omit added salt.
• Protein Boost: Add sliced chicken, beef, shrimp, tofu, or eggs.
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce and ensure gluten-free noodles.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together dark soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and white pepper until well combined. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Boil your preferred Lo Mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Stir-Fry Add-ins (Optional)

If using protein or vegetables, stir-fry them in a hot wok or large skillet with a bit of oil until cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, pour the sauce over, and toss to coat. Return any cooked vegetables or protein to the pan and stir-fry everything together for another 2–3 minutes until heated through.

Step 5: Serve

Transfer to bowls and enjoy hot. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of chili oil if desired.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use fresh or refrigerated Lo Mein or egg noodles for best texture.
• Cook noodles al dente so they don’t become mushy when stir-fried.
• Prep all ingredients before cooking—this dish moves fast!
• Wok or large skillet works best for even stir-frying.
• Don’t overdo the sauce; a little goes a long way.

How to Serve

Lo Mein can be served as a standalone dish or paired with side items like spring rolls, dumplings, or a light soup. Serve hot and fresh with a sprinkle of scallions or a dash of chili oil for added flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Lo Mein is best fresh but can be frozen for up to 1 month. Reheat directly from frozen in a pan for best results.

Reheating

Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or extra sauce to loosen the noodles. Microwave also works in a pinch.

FAQs

1. What kind of noodles should I use for Lo Mein?

Use traditional Lo Mein noodles or substitute with egg noodles or even spaghetti in a pinch.

2. Can I make the sauce in advance?

Yes! Store it in a jar in the fridge for up to a week for quick meals.

3. What’s the difference between Lo Mein and Chow Mein?

Lo Mein uses soft, boiled noodles; Chow Mein noodles are typically fried or stir-fried until crispy.

4. Can I make Lo Mein without oyster sauce?

Yes, substitute with hoisin sauce or a vegetarian stir-fry sauce.

5. Is dark soy sauce necessary?

It adds deep color and rich flavor, but you can use regular soy sauce if that’s all you have.

6. Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Bok choy, bell peppers, mushrooms, snow peas, and carrots are all great options.

7. Is this recipe spicy?

Not as written, but you can easily add heat with chili oil or hot sauce.

8. What is Shaoxing wine and can I substitute it?

It’s a Chinese cooking wine that adds depth—dry sherry or mirin are good substitutes.

9. Can I double the sauce?

Yes, if you prefer saucier noodles, double the sauce ingredients.

10. How do I avoid soggy noodles?

Don’t overcook the noodles and stir-fry quickly over high heat to maintain texture.

Conclusion

Lo Mein is the perfect example of how simple ingredients can create something absolutely crave-worthy. Whether you’re whipping it up as a last-minute dinner or planning your weekly meal prep, this recipe will quickly become a staple. The savory sauce, chewy noodles, and endless customization options mean you’ll never get bored. Skip the takeout and make this satisfying, flavor-packed dish right in your own kitchen—you won’t regret it!

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