Chowmein
Chinese-American chowmein — stir-fried crispy noodles with vegetables and savory sauce. The takeout classic. Different from soft noodles — chowmein has crispy edges.
Prep Time
20 min
Cook Time
36 min
Servings
2
Calories
409 cal

🛠 Interactive Recipe Tools — Use them right here on this page
Smart Servings Scaler
- Noodles100 g
- Carrot½ medium
- Cabbage½
- Peas¼ cup
- Spring Onion½
- Soy Sauce1 tbsp
- Garlic1 ½ cloves
- Ginger½ tsp
- Sesame Oil½
All quantities scaled automatically from 2 servings.
Ingredients
Makes 2 servings · Use the Servings Scaler above to adjust
- Noodles100 g
- Carrot0.5 medium
- Cabbage0.5
- Peas0.25 cup
- Spring Onion0.5
- Soy Sauce1 tbsp
- Garlic1.5 cloves
- Ginger0.5 tsp
- Sesame Oil0.5
Instructions
- 1
Boil 8 oz chow mein noodles for 1 minute less than package time. Drain. Spread on a sheet to dry slightly.
- 2
Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a wok or large skillet over highest heat. Add the noodles in a flat layer. Don't move for 2 minutes — let them crisp on the bottom.
- 3
Flip the noodle mat (use spatula) and let the other side crisp 2 minutes. Transfer to a plate, breaking up slightly.
- 4
In the same wok, add another tablespoon of oil. Stir-fry 3 cups mixed vegetables (cabbage, carrots, bell pepper, bean sprouts, scallions, mushrooms) for 3 minutes.
- 5
Add 4 minced garlic cloves and 1 tablespoon grated ginger. Stir 30 seconds. Add the sauce (3 tablespoons soy + 1 tablespoon oyster + 1 teaspoon sesame oil + 1 tablespoon sugar + ½ cup stock + 1 tablespoon cornstarch + water).
- 6
Return the crispy noodles. Toss for 60 seconds until sauce thickens and coats. Off heat, sprinkle with scallions. Serve immediately.
Watch how to make Chowmein
Plays the exact recipe video right here — no need to leave the page.
💡 Expert Tips
- 1.Crisp the noodles. The distinguishing feature.
- 2.Highest heat.
- 3.Add protein if you like (chicken, shrimp).
- 4.Eat immediately.
🔬 Why It Works
Chowmein (American-Chinese style) succeeds when the noodles are first crisped (the distinguishing feature) then briefly tossed with the vegetables and sauce. The combination of crispy noodle texture, tender vegetables, and savory sauce creates the takeout classic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Chow mein vs lo mein?▾
Best noodles?▾
Add protein?▾
Vegetarian?▾
4.8
41 home cooks rated this
Nutrition Facts
Per serving (recipe makes 2 servings)
* Percent Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Values are estimates.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving (recipe makes 2 servings)
* Percent Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Values are estimates.
Related Recipes

Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Veggie Wrap

Chicken Caesar Salad
Beef Burger
Margherita Pizza
