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Chow Mein Recipes

Chow mein is a quick, flavour-packed noodle dish that is perfect for busy evenings. Stir-fried noodles are tossed with vegetables, meat and a savoury sauce. Our chow mein recipes include classic favourites and easy variations for different tastes.

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How do you make chow mein?

How do you make chow mein?

Prepare the ingredients. Slice your chosen meat thinly and chop vegetables such as peppers, cabbage and spring onions. Cook noodles according to packet instructions, then drain well.

Make the sauce. A simple chow mein sauce recipe uses soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger and a small amount of sugar. Mix until combined.

Cook the meat. Heat oil in a wok or large pan. Stir-fry chicken or beef until cooked through and lightly browned, then remove from the pan.

Stir-fry the vegetables. Add vegetables to the pan and cook quickly, keeping them slightly crisp.

Combine everything. Return the meat to the pan, add noodles and pour over the sauce. Toss well until evenly coated and heated through.

What makes a good chow mein?

What makes a good chow mein?

A good chow mein is all about texture, balance and fresh flavour. The noodles should be tender but still have a bit of bite, while the vegetables keep their crispness to create contrast in every mouthful. A well-made sauce should cling to every strand without weighing the dish down, using savoury and slightly sweet notes that complement the ingredients. Cooking over high heat helps lock in flavour and keeps the noodles from going soggy, and finishing with the sauce towards the end means everything stays glossy and well-coated.

Try inspiration like Chicken Chow Mein with Peppers and Green Beans for juicy chicken and crisp veg or add variety with Prawn Chow Mein with Egg Noodles if you want seafood spice.

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