Quick & Easy Beef Chow Mein
I always get excited about sharing recipes like this Beef Chow Mein because it’s such a crowd-pleaser in my house. It’s all about the tender beef meeting the crunch of fresh veggies, wrapped up in those gloriously seasoned noodles – it’s like a hug in a bowl. This dish not only promises a delicious dinner but it’s quick and easy to make – and trust me, it delivers every single time!
Soy Sauce: It’s crucial for that umami flavor. I always recommend to go for a low sodium soy sauce, especially if you’re watching your salt intake. Oyster Sauce and Hoisin Sauce: They add sweetness and depth. If you’re out, try a mix of soy sauce and a little sugar. Shaoxing Wine: This adds a rich, authentic flavor. Dry sherry is a common substitute. Sesame Oil: For a nutty finishing touch. If you don’t have it, it’s okay to skip, but it does add a unique flavor. Sugar: Just a bit to balance the flavors. Honey can work too.
Chow Mein Noodles: If you can’t find them, spaghetti or yakisoba noodles are good substitutes. Beef Sirloin or Flank Steak: Chicken or tofu can work well too if you’re looking for an alternative. Vegetable Oil: Canola or peanut oil are great alternatives. Garlic and Ginger: These aromatics add depth and a burst of flavor. Fresh is always best. Onion, Carrot, Cabbage, and Bell Pepper: Feel free to toss in any other veggies you like or have on hand. Green Onions: You can substitute with some chives, if you prefer. Salt and Pepper: Adjust to taste. Sesame Seeds for Garnish: Totally optional, but they do give a nice little crunch.
Start off by cooking the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions until they’re al dente, then drain. Give them a quick rinse under cold water – this stops the cooking and keeps them from sticking. Now, let’s make that delicious sauce. Grab a small bowl and combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, dark soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, sesame oil, and sugar. Stir it all together until well mixed. Next, take your beef slices and toss them in a bowl with some soy sauce. Let them sit and marinate for a bit – about 5-10 minutes should do. This little wait helps the beef absorb all those yummy flavors. Heat up some vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet. Once it’s hot, stir-fry your marinated beef. You’ll want to cook it until it’s nicely browned and just cooked through. After that, take it out of the wok and set it aside. In the same wok, add a bit more oil and toss in the garlic and ginger. Give them a moment to become fragrant. Then, add in the onion, carrots, cabbage, and bell pepper. Stir-fry them until they’re tender yet still have a bit of crunch. Now, the fun part! Add the cooked beef back into the wok with your veggies. Throw in the cooked noodles and pour that tasty sauce you made over everything. Toss it all together and cook it on high heat until the noodles have soaked up all the sauce. Finally, stir in the green onions, and give it another minute to all come together. Season with salt and pepper to your taste. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some sesame seeds over the top for garnish.
Storing Leftovers
To store this Beef Chow Mein, place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. While freezing is possible, I do not recommend it, as the noodles and vegetables can lose their texture. For the best experience, enjoy it fresh or from the fridge.
More Asian Recipes
Chinese Chicken Curry Chop Suey Chicken Fried Rice Char Siu Pork (Chinese BBQ Pork) Asian Style Pepper Steak
