Dish

Chow mein

Chow mein is made by stir-frying noodles with vegetables such as cabbage, carrots, and bean sprouts, along with meat or seafood if desired. The dish is seasoned with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and other spices. Chow mein can be made with different types of noodles, such as egg noodles or rice noodles. It is a filling and flavorful dish that is easy to make at home.

Asian cuisine› Chinese cuisine

Stir-fry

Origins and history

Chow mein originated in China and is believed to have been brought to the United States by Chinese immigrants in the late 19th century. It has since become a popular dish in Chinese-American cuisine.

Dietary considerations

Chow mein can be made vegetarian or vegan by omitting the meat or seafood and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. It is also a good source of carbohydrates and protein.

Variations

There are many variations of chow mein, including Cantonese-style chow mein, which is made with crispy noodles, and Hong Kong-style chow mein, which is made with a thicker sauce. Some versions of chow mein also include peanuts or cashews for added crunch.

Presentation and garnishing

Chow mein can be garnished with chopped scallions or cilantro for added flavor and color. It can be served in a bowl or on a plate, and can be topped with additional soy sauce or hot sauce if desired.

Tips & Tricks

To make the noodles crispy, cook them in hot oil until they are golden brown before adding the vegetables and sauce. Be sure to stir-fry the vegetables quickly over high heat to keep them crisp.

Side-dishes

Chow mein can be served as a main dish or as a side dish with other Chinese dishes. It pairs well with steamed rice and vegetable dishes such as stir-fried bok choy or broccoli.