Description
This Panda Express Chow Mein recipe recreates the classic Chinese-American stir-fried noodle dish with a perfect balance of savory sauces, fresh vegetables, and tender chow mein noodles. It offers a quick and flavorful entree ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 medium Onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Carrots, julienned or thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup Cabbage, shredded
- 1/2 cup Bell Pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
- 2-3 Green Onions, chopped (for garnish)
Noodles and Sauces
- 1 pack (7 oz) Chow Mein Noodles (fresh or dry)
- 2 tbsp Soy Sauce
- 2 tbsp Oyster Sauce
- 1 tbsp Hoisin Sauce
- 1 tbsp Sesame Oil
Other Ingredients
- 3 tbsp Vegetable Oil
- 1 tsp Sugar
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Noodles: Cook the chow mein noodles according to package instructions until al dente, drain and set aside. If using fresh noodles, rinse under cold water and drain to prevent sticking.
- Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sliced onions and stir-fry for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant and beginning to soften. Add the julienned carrots, shredded cabbage, and optional bell pepper. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
- Combine Sauces: In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and sugar until well combined. This mixture will provide the signature savory and slightly sweet flavor to the dish.
- Stir-fry Noodles with Vegetables: Add the cooked chow mein noodles to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the sauce mixture over the noodles and toss everything together carefully but thoroughly using tongs or chopsticks to coat the noodles evenly with the sauce and distribute the vegetables.
- Season and Finish: Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the noodles absorb the sauce and everything is heated through. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve hot as a main dish or alongside your favorite Chinese-inspired entrees.
Notes
- You can substitute chow mein noodles with thin egg noodles if unavailable.
- For a vegetarian version, replace oyster sauce with vegetarian mushroom sauce or extra soy sauce.
- Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or beef to make it a protein-rich meal.
- Adjust the amount of sugar to your taste or omit for a less sweet dish.
- Fresh vegetables can be swapped or added according to season and preference.
