How to Make Chowmein: A Quick and Flavorful Stir-Fry Recipe

Chowmein is a popular and delicious Chinese stir-fry dish that combines tender noodles with a mix of colorful vegetables and savory sauce. It’s a versatile recipe that can be easily adapted to include your favorite ingredients, whether you prefer it with chicken, shrimp, or just vegetables. Here's a simple recipe to make chowmein at home.

Ingredients:

• 200g (7 oz) chowmein noodles (or any thin egg noodles)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium bell pepper, sliced
• 1 medium carrot, julienned
• 1 cup cabbage, shredded
• 1 cup bean sprouts (optional)
• 1 cup cooked chicken or tofu, sliced (optional)
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (or hoisin sauce for a vegetarian option)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or white vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (for thickening)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Spring onions, sliced (for garnish)
• Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Noodles: Follow the package instructions to cook the chowmein noodles. Drain and rinse them under cold water to prevent sticking. Toss with a little vegetable oil to keep them separate.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: Slice and prepare all the vegetables. If using chicken or tofu, make sure they are cooked and sliced into bite-sized pieces.
3. Stir-Fry the Vegetables:

• Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 2 minutes.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Add the bell pepper, carrot, and cabbage to the wok. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

1. Add the Protein: If you’re using chicken or tofu, add it to the wok and stir to combine with the vegetables.
2. Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Pour this sauce over the vegetables and protein in the wok. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
3. Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, add the cornstarch slurry to the wok. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes until the sauce has thickened and coats the vegetables and noodles.
4. Add Noodles: Gently add the cooked noodles to the wok and toss everything together to ensure the noodles are well-coated with the sauce and evenly mixed with the vegetables.
5. Season and Garnish: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with sliced spring onions and sesame seeds if desired.
6. Serve: Serve hot as a main dish or alongside other Chinese-style dishes.

Conclusion

Chowmein is a tasty and adaptable dish that can fit into many dietary plans. However, if you're managing specific health goals or weight loss objectives, it's important to make sure that your meals align with your dietary needs. Before trying new recipes like chowmein, consider consulting a dietician to tailor your diet to your goals. For personalized advice, you can contact Dietician Natasha Mohan. Explore her diet plan for weight loss for female for expert guidance on maintaining a balanced and effective weight loss plan while enjoying your favorite meals.