Introduction
If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor, this Easy 15-Minute Lo Mein is the answer to your dinner dilemmas! With tender lo mein noodles coated in a savory blend of sauces and loaded with fresh vegetables and your protein of choice, it’s a delightful dish that comes together in a flash. Perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you crave an irresistible stir-fry, this recipe brings the taste of a Chinese takeout right to your kitchen. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
- 8 oz lo mein noodles
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli)
- 1 cup cooked protein of choice (chicken, shrimp, or tofu)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Begin by cooking the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain them well and set aside.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it’s shimmering.
- Add the minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant and golden.
- Next, toss in the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until they are tender yet still vibrant.
- Add your choice of cooked protein to the skillet, stirring to combine all the wonderful ingredients.
- Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil, making sure all the components are well-coated with the rich sauces.
- Bring all the flavors together by adding the lo mein noodles to the skillet. Toss everything gently until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
- Once everything is hot and delicious, remove from heat and stir in the sliced green onions for a fresh touch.
- Serve your lo mein hot, garnished with sesame seeds if desired for that extra crunch!
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to customize the mixed vegetables based on your preference or seasonal availability. Snow peas, mushrooms, or bok choy would all be delightful additions!
- If you’re feeling adventurous, add a dash of chili sauce for a spicy kick!
- For a vegetarian version, ensure the oyster sauce is replaced with a vegetarian alternative.
Cooking Techniques
This recipe revolves around the art of stir-frying — a quick cooking method that seals in the flavors while keeping the textures crisp. Make sure to keep your ingredients moving in the pan to prevent burning and to achieve that perfect sauté!
An important tip is to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go because stir-frying is a fast-paced process. It’s all about timing and high heat for that beautiful finish.
FAQ
Can I make this lo mein ahead of time?
While lo mein is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the vegetables and protein ahead of time. Just heat everything together right before serving!
What other proteins can I use?
This recipe is quite flexible! You can use beef, pork, or even keep it plant-based with seitan or tempeh.
Conclusion
In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a delicious plate of Easy Lo Mein that delights both your palate and your schedule. It’s a wonderful way to introduce your family to a comforting dish that feels special without the stress. So, gather your ingredients, unleash your inner chef, and enjoy a warm, homemade dinner that’s sure to impress!