Chow Mein, a beloved staple of Chinese cuisine, is known for its flavorful stir-fried noodles combined with a medley of vegetables and proteins. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, creating a delicious and satisfying plate of Chow Mein at home can be a rewarding experience. This guide will walk you through the process of preparing an authentic Chow Mein dish that rivals your favorite takeout. By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to whip up a savory, well-balanced meal that’s sure to please your taste buds.
Ingredients
- Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather the essential ingredients:
Noodles:
- 8 ounces (230 grams) of either steamed or fresh chow mein noodles
Chow Mein Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon dark soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons water
Other Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 2 oz. (60g) chicken, cut into thin strips
- 6 medium-sized shrimp, shelled and deveined
- 1/2 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/4 cup shredded carrot
- 2 stalks scallions, cut into 2-inch strips (5 cm)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
- Start by preparing your noodles. If you’re using fresh chow mein noodles, they may need a quick blanch in boiling water to loosen them up. If using steamed noodles, ensure they’re at room temperature for easier handling.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, dark soy sauce, and water. Mix until the sugar dissolves, creating a rich, flavorful sauce that will coat your noodles beautifully.
Step 3: Cook the Protein
- Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- When the oil is ready, toss in the minced garlic and stir until it becomes aromatic
- Next, add the chicken strips, cooking them until they are no longer pink.
- Incorporate the shrimp and cook them until they turn a pinkish hue and become opaque.
- Remove the cooked proteins from the skillet and set them aside.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
- In the same pan, pour in an additional tablespoon of cooking oil.
- Once heated, toss in the shredded cabbage and carrot.
- Stir-fry these vegetables until they soften slightly, but still retain a bit of crunch.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Add the cooked chicken and shrimp back into the skillet, mixing them with the vegetables. Pour the prepared Chow Mein sauce over the mixture, stirring well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
Step 6: Incorporate the Noodles
- Finally, add the noodles to the skillet.
- Use a pair of tongs or chopsticks to toss the noodles with the rest of the ingredients, making sure the sauce is evenly distributed.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Once the Chow Mein is ready, remove it from the heat and toss in the scallions. Serve your homemade Chow Mein hot, garnished with additional scallions if desired.
Conclusion
Making Chow Mein at home is not only a way to enjoy a fresh, homemade version of a takeout classic but also an opportunity to customize the dish to your liking. With its combination of tender noodles, savory sauce, and a balance of protein and vegetables, this Chow Mein recipe is both satisfying and versatile. By following these instructions, you’ll master a dish that can easily become a go-to meal in your cooking repertoire, impressing family and friends alike. So, next time you’re craving Chinese takeout, skip the restaurant and create your own delicious Chow Mein at home!