If you find yourself craving takeout-style noodles but want to whip up something delicious at home, this Lo Mein Recipe is your golden ticket. It’s colorful, loaded with stir-fried veggies, and smothered in a savory sauce that clings to every strand of noodle—plus, it’s fast enough for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for sharing with friends. Get ready for a meal that’s equal parts comfort food and vibrant veggie feast!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Lo Mein Recipe has a special role, whether it’s boosting the flavor, adding crunch, or saturating the noodles with saucy perfection. Simple, everyday staples come together for big flavor, so don’t skip a thing!
- Lo mein noodles or spaghetti (8 oz): Traditional lo mein noodles are ideal for a springy bite, but spaghetti works beautifully in a pinch.
- Sesame oil (1 tablespoon): Nutty and aromatic, this coats the noodles and adds irresistible depth.
- Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): The high smoke point is perfect for quick, hot stir frying.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): A kickstart of robust flavor—don’t be shy!
- Fresh ginger, minced (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth, slight heat, and classic Asian flavor.
- Sliced mushrooms (1 cup): Earthy, meaty, and soak up all that lovely sauce.
- Shredded carrots (1 cup): For a touch of sweetness and an appealing pop of color.
- Red bell pepper, thinly sliced (1): Crisp, sweet, and gorgeous in the bowl.
- Snow peas (1 cup): Tender and snappy, these keep every forkful interesting.
- Green onions, sliced (3): Mild, fresh, and the finishing touch before serving.
- Soy sauce (1/4 cup): The salty, umami base of your sauce—opt for low-sodium if you prefer.
- Oyster sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds complexity and savoriness—feel free to use a vegan substitute if you’d like.
- Hoisin sauce (1 tablespoon): A hint of sweetness and tang that’s essential for the signature lo mein taste.
- Sugar (1 teaspoon): Balances out the salt and acidity for a well-rounded sauce.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): For a subtle peppery edge in every bite.
How to Make Lo Mein Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Start by boiling your lo mein noodles (or trusty spaghetti!) according to the package instructions. Once done, drain them well, then toss immediately with sesame oil—this not only keeps them from sticking but infuses them with incredible nutty flavor. Set aside so they’re ready for the stir fry action.
Step 2: Whisk Up the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine your soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sugar, and black pepper. Give it a thorough whisk so the sugar dissolves and all those flavors marry perfectly. This sauce is the heart and soul of the Lo Mein Recipe, so be generous and don’t hesitate to adjust to taste.
Step 3: Stir Fry the Aromatics
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until they’re fragrant. Their perfume alone makes your kitchen smell like your favorite noodle joint.
Step 4: Add the Veggies
Toss in mushrooms, carrots, bell pepper, and snow peas. Stir fry for 3 to 4 minutes, just until the veggies are crisp-tender. They should still have a fresh bite and vibrant color—overcooking would be a shame!
Step 5: Combine Everything
Now bring in your cooked noodles and the sauce you mixed earlier. Toss everything together so the noodles become glossy and well-coated. Stir fry for another 2 to 3 minutes, making sure everything is heated through and every bite is bathed in that irresistible sauce. Sprinkle with green onions right at the end for a burst of freshness!
How to Serve Lo Mein Recipe
Garnishes
Finish your Lo Mein Recipe with a sprinkle of extra sliced green onions or toasted sesame seeds for a nutty crunch. A handful of fresh cilantro leaves or a swirl of chili oil can also elevate both color and flavor if you’re feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
Classic Asian sides go hand-in-hand with this dish. Pair your lo mein with steamed dumplings, crispy spring rolls, or a simple bowl of miso soup. Want to make it a heartier spread? A side of quick pickled cucumbers adds pop and freshness to balance the entire meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Impress your friends or family by serving lo mein in wide shallow bowls or even takeaway-style cartons. For gatherings, lay out a “make-your-own lo mein bar” with toppings like chopped peanuts, sliced chili, or pan-seared tofu so everyone can customize their dinner adventure.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’ve got more lo mein than you can handle in one sitting, not to worry—this Lo Mein Recipe stores like a champ. Transfer cooled leftovers to an airtight container and pop them in the fridge; they’ll stay delicious for up to three days.
Freezing
You can freeze lo mein, but keep in mind the veggies may lose some crispness. Let the dish cool completely, then portion into zip-top freezer bags or airtight containers. Label and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
For the best taste and texture, reheat your lo mein in a hot skillet or wok with a splash of water or extra sauce to revive the noodles. If you’re in a pinch, the microwave works—just cover and heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I add meat or tofu to this Lo Mein Recipe?
Absolutely! Toss in sliced cooked chicken, shrimp, beef, or cubes of crispy tofu during the final stir fry for extra protein and heartiness. It’s one of the best ways to make the dish even more satisfying.
What if I can’t find lo mein noodles?
No worries—regular spaghetti or linguine make a wonderful substitute. Just cook them until al dente so they maintain a nice bite and absorb all the delicious sauce.
Is there a way to make this Lo Mein Recipe vegan?
Yes! Replace the oyster sauce with a vegan alternative or extra hoisin sauce, and double-check that your hoisin is vegan-friendly. The rest of the ingredients are plant-based, so it’s an easy switch.
Can I use other vegetables?
This recipe is super flexible with veggies. Try broccoli, baby corn, snap peas, napa cabbage, or bean sprouts—just keep the total amount about the same for balance and even cooking.
How can I reduce the sodium in this recipe?
Opt for low-sodium soy sauce, and consider using less oyster and hoisin sauce or thinning the sauce with a little water. Adjust to taste—your noodles will still pack plenty of flavor!
Final Thoughts
Once you try this colorful, flavor-packed Lo Mein Recipe at home, you’ll be hooked—and so will your friends and family! Dive in, get creative with your veggies and protein, and enjoy homemade noodles that rival any takeout. Give this recipe a go and let those savory, saucy noodles win you over!
Print
Lo Mein Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir Fry
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This flavorful and easy lo mein recipe is a classic Asian stir-fry dish packed with vegetables and tossed in a savory sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Ingredients
Noodles:
- 8 oz lo mein noodles (or spaghetti)
Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetables:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger (minced)
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
- 1 cup snow peas
- 3 green onions (sliced)
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: Cook the lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and toss with sesame oil to prevent sticking, then set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sugar, and black pepper.
- Stir-Fry: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add garlic and ginger, sauté for 30 seconds. Add mushrooms, carrots, bell pepper, and snow peas. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes. Add cooked noodles and sauce to the pan, toss and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes.
- Finish: Remove from heat, sprinkle with green onions, and serve.
Notes
- Add your choice of protein like cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce saltiness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
