Plain Chow Mein (Chinese Noodles)

Here’s how to make Plain Chow Mein (Chinese Noodles) with this easy recipe. These noodles are quick to prepare and packed with flavor, making them a perfect meal for busy weeknights or a delightful side dish for gatherings. Whether you’re craving a comforting bowl of stir-fried noodles or looking for a simple dish to impress guests, this plain chow mein delivers on taste and versatility.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This plain chow mein recipe takes only 10 minutes from start to finish, perfect for those busy evenings.
• Flavorful: With a rich mix of sauces and fresh ingredients, these noodles are bursting with flavor that rivals your favorite takeaway.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course, side dish, or even as a base for protein like chicken or tofu—it’s endlessly adaptable!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and minimal oil, it’s a healthier option compared to takeout.
• Family Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the delicious taste of these Chinese noodles.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your plain chow mein, having the right tools makes all the difference. Gather everything before you start cooking for an efficient experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok
• Mixing Bowl
• Chopping Board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok: A wok is essential for high-heat cooking, ensuring your noodles get that perfect stir-fry texture.
• Mixing Bowl: Use a mixing bowl to easily combine your sauce ingredients without making a mess.

Ingredients

For the Noodles

• 300 g Egg Noodles
• 100 g Beansprouts (Big Handful)
• 2 Garlic Cloves (Diced)
• 4 Spring Onions (Chopped)

For the Sauce

• 2 tbsp Oil (For Frying)
• 2 tbsp Oyster Sauce
• 2 tbsp Dark Soy Sauce
• 2 tbsp Vinegar
• 1 tbsp Brown Sugar
• 1 tbsp Sesame Oil
• 1 tbsp Chilli Sauce
• ½ tsp Salt

How to Make Plain Chow Mein (Chinese Noodles)

Step 1: Make the Chow Mein Sauce

In a small mixing bowl, combine:
1. Oyster sauce
2. Dark soy sauce
3. Vinegar
4. Brown sugar
5. Sesame oil
6. Chilli sauce
7. Salt

Mix well and set aside for later use.

Step 2: Fry the Beansprouts

Heat your wok over high heat and add two tablespoons of oil:
1. Once hot, fry the beansprouts for about 1 to 2 minutes until they start to soften.

Step 3: Add Onions and Garlic

Add the chopped spring onions and diced garlic to the wok:
1. Stir-fry for an extra minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Cook the Noodles

Pour in the egg noodles:
1. Stir-fry everything together for another 1 to 2 minutes until heated through.

Step 5: Combine with Sauce

Drizzle the prepared chow mein sauce over the noodle mixture:
1. Mix well until everything is evenly coated.
2. Remove from heat and serve hot!

Enjoy your delicious homemade plain chow mein!

How to Serve Plain Chow Mein (Chinese Noodles)

Serving Plain Chow Mein (Chinese Noodles) can elevate your dining experience. Whether it’s a casual meal at home or a festive occasion, how you present this dish matters. Here are some serving suggestions that will enhance the flavor and presentation of your chow mein.

Pair with Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients.
• Sliced Bell Peppers: Their crunchiness complements the softness of the noodles.
• Carrot Ribbons: Thinly sliced carrots not only add sweetness but also a vibrant look.

Add Protein Options

• Grilled Chicken: Sliced grilled chicken breast provides a great protein boost.
• Shrimp Stir-Fry: Quick-cooked shrimp offer a seafood twist to your chow mein.
• Tofu Cubes: For a vegetarian option, crispy tofu cubes pair well with the noodles.

Garnish Creatively

• Sesame Seeds: Sprinkling toasted sesame seeds adds a nutty flavor and texture.
• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro enhances freshness and brings an aromatic touch.

How to Perfect Plain Chow Mein (Chinese Noodles)

Creating perfect Plain Chow Mein (Chinese Noodles) involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve delicious results every time.

• Heat: Use high heat when stir-frying for that authentic wok char.
• Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables and herbs for vibrant flavors.
• Quick Cooking: Stir-fry quickly to maintain the crunch of your veggies.
• Sauce Balance: Adjust sauces according to taste; feel free to experiment with spice levels.
• Noodle Preparation: Cook noodles just until al dente to prevent mushiness.

Best Side Dishes for Plain Chow Mein (Chinese Noodles)

Pairing side dishes with your Plain Chow Mein (Chinese Noodles) can make your meal more satisfying. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables or meat provide a delightful crunch.
2. Hot and Sour Soup: A warm bowl of hot and sour soup offers contrasting flavors that complement the noodles well.
3. Dumplings: Steamed or fried dumplings filled with pork or vegetables enhance your meal’s variety.
4. Spring Rolls: Fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp and vegetables add a light, refreshing element.
5. Fried Rice: A classic accompaniment, fried rice brings additional textures and flavors to your meal.
6. Wonton Soup: Light yet flavorful, wonton soup pairs nicely without overwhelming the chow mein.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making plain chow mein can be quick and easy, but there are common mistakes that can affect the final dish.

• Overcooking Noodles: Ensure you cook the egg noodles just until al dente. Overcooking can make them mushy and unappetizing.
• Skipping the Sauce: The chow mein sauce is vital for flavor. Don’t skip it or skimp on any ingredients; each component adds depth to the dish.
• Crowding the Wok: Cooking too many ingredients at once can lead to steaming instead of stir-frying. Cook in batches if necessary to maintain high heat and achieve that perfect stir-fry texture.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before cooking. Cold ingredients can lower the wok’s temperature, leading to uneven cooking.
• Neglecting Fresh Vegetables: While beansprouts are essential, consider adding other fresh vegetables for added nutrition and flavor. Bell peppers or carrots can enhance the dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover plain chow mein in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Plain Chow Mein (Chinese Noodles)

• Place cooled chow mein in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Plain Chow Mein (Chinese Noodles)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a little oil in a pan, add chow mein, and stir-fry over medium heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making plain chow mein.

How do I make Plain Chow Mein (Chinese Noodles) vegetarian?

You can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting any meat and adding more vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms.

Can I use different noodles for Plain Chow Mein?

Yes! While egg noodles are traditional, you can substitute with rice noodles or whole wheat noodles based on your preference.

What is the best sauce for Plain Chow Mein (Chinese Noodles)?

The recommended sauce combines oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil, and chili sauce. This mix gives a balanced flavor profile.

How long does it take to prepare Plain Chow Mein (Chinese Noodles)?

Preparation takes about 3 minutes while cooking takes an additional 7 minutes. You can have this dish ready in just 10 minutes!

Final Thoughts

Plain chow mein is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with different vegetables or proteins based on your taste preferences. Whether you serve it as a main course or side dish, it’s sure to delight everyone at your table. Give this recipe a try for a delicious meal that feels like a cozy takeaway experience right at home!