Chow mein is a classic Chinese dish, very popular in many restaurants around the world, especially in the United States and England.
The truth is that the chow mein recipe achieved its fame thanks to Chinese emigrants abroad, who prepared this stir‑fry both in themed restaurants and in their own homes.
💡 There are many ways to prepare it, as long as you respect one of the essential principles: chow mein is a Chinese stir‑fried noodle dish. From there, you can be as creative as you like with the recipe.
This time I’m going to prepare some stir‑fried chow mein noodles with vegetables and shrimp, although chicken or thinly sliced beef also works very well.
Of course, you can make your chow mein vegan by simply adding vegetables. It’s delicious either way.
Another important detail to keep in mind is the type of pasta or noodle to use in your homemade chow mein.
Here are 2 options:
- If you’re in a hurry and don’t want to complicate things, you can use regular spaghetti or noodles.
- If you want to add an extra touch, use Chinese egg noodles, mie noodles, or even fresh pasta.
You’re just a step away from preparing quality Chinese food at home. Remember to use fresh ingredients and enjoy this tasty dish. Let’s get to the recipe 🙂
Panda Express Chow Mein Recipe
Ingredients for 4 people
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chinese wheat noodles with or without egg (you can also use spaghetti or noodles) | 250 g |
| Half a head of broccoli, cut into small florets | ½ |
| Large carrot | 1 |
| Onion | 1 |
| Green pepper | 1 |
| Garlic cloves | 2 |
| Sugar | ½ teaspoon |
| Light soy sauce | to taste |
| Sherry or brandy | to taste |
| Prawns or shrimp | 10‑15 |
| Sesame oil | to taste |
| Sunflower oil | to taste |
Step by Step Guide:
- First, cook the Chinese noodles according to the manufacturer’s instructions. When they are al dente, drain, remove from heat, and drizzle with sesame oil.
- In a wok or large, spacious frying pan, add a drizzle of sunflower oil. When it’s very hot, stir‑fry the broccoli and julienned carrots over high heat. Then add the crushed garlic. When the garlic is fragrant, add the julienned onion and sliced bell pepper. Stir well.
- Now it’s time to add a splash of soy sauce to the stir‑fry. About 4 teaspoons. Add a splash of sherry (about a tablespoon) and mix all the ingredients together. Stir in the Chinese noodles, prawns, and sugar, and continue mixing.
- If you think it’s necessary, you can add a splash of water or broth to prevent the noodles from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Serve piping hot.
Tasting
This is a tasty and satisfying dish that allows for countless variations in its preparation. Remember to use high‑quality vegetables, fish, and meat, and also good quality Chinese noodles or egg noodles.
If you wish, you can also add to the stir‑fry a pinch of crushed ginger, a little sweet chili sauce, a splash of Shaoxing rice wine (instead of brandy), or even a pinch of oyster sauce.
If you use chicken or beef in your recipe, you can marinate these ingredients beforehand to achieve a much tastier meat.
A highly recommended option is to marinate the beef or chicken with a few teaspoons of Chinese 5 spices.
Forget Panda Express or any other restaurant and cook your own chow mein at home.
Nutritional Facts for Panda Express Chow Mein
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Serving Size | 1 plate | — |
| Calories | 510 kcal | 26% |
| Carbohydrates | 54 g | 20% |
| Protein | 13 g | 26% |
| Total Fat | 27 g | 35% |
| Saturated Fat | 5 g | 25% |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% |
| Sodium | 860 mg | 37% |
| Potassium | 320 mg | 7% |
| Fiber | 4 g | 14% |
| Sugars | 9 g | — |
| Vitamin A | 420 IU | 8% |
| Vitamin C | 12 mg | 13% |
| Calcium | 40 mg | 3% |
| Iron | 3 mg | 17% |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on the noodles, vegetables, sauces, and cooking oil used. Panda Express‑style chow mein is a savory noodle dish that combines tender noodles with cabbage, celery, onions, and flavorful seasonings.
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000‑calorie diet.