Learn How to Make Plain Chow Mein – Easy and Delicious Recipe!

Craving the perfect balance of savory, slurpable noodles and crisp, fresh vegetables? Look no further than classic Plain Chow Mein. This simple yet delectable Chinese dish is a go-to comfort food that’s easy to make at home. With just a few key ingredients and a quick stir-fry, you can transport your taste buds to the bustling streets of Hong Kong or Shanghai. Let’s dive into the world of Plain Chow Mein and uncover the secrets to creating this authentic, flavor-packed noodle dish.

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What is Plain Chow Mein?

Plain Chow Mein is a beloved Chinese stir-fried noodle dish that showcases the beauty of egg noodles, fresh vegetables, and a savory sauce. Originating in the Cantonese cuisine of southern China, Chow Mein has become a staple on menus around the world, beloved for its simplicity and versatility. The term “chow mein” literally translates to “stir-fried noodles,” and the “plain” version features a straightforward preparation that allows the core ingredients to shine.

Ingredients for Authentic Plain Chow Mein

To make Plain Chow Mein, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 300 g Egg Noodles
• 100 g Beansprouts (Big Handful)
• 2 Garlic Cloves, diced
• 4 Spring Onions, chopped
• 2 tbsp Oil for frying

Chow Mein Sauce

• 2 tbsp Oyster Sauce
• 2 tbsp Dark Soy Sauce
• 2 tbsp Vinegar
• 1 tbsp Brown Sugar
• 1 tbsp Sesame Oil
• 1 tbsp Chilli Sauce
• ½ tsp Salt

The key to Plain Chow Mein is using high-quality, fresh ingredients. Opt for egg noodles that have a firm, springy texture, and choose vibrant, crunchy beansprouts. The aromatic garlic and spring onions provide the perfect foundation, while the savory-sweet sauce ties everything together harmoniously.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to bring Plain Chow Mein to life? Follow these simple steps:

1. Cook Noodles: Boil egg noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
2. Prepare Sauce: In a small bowl, mix all Chow Mein Sauce ingredients until well combined.
3. Heat Wok: Heat oil in a carbon steel wok over medium-high heat.
4. Stir-Fry Aromatics: Add garlic and spring onions, stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add Noodles & Sauce: Add cooked noodles and sauce to the wok. Toss to coat evenly.
6. Add Beansprouts: Stir in beansprouts and cook for another 1–2 minutes.
7. Serve: Serve hot immediately.

The key to perfectly cooked Plain Chow Mein is maintaining a high heat throughout the stir-frying process. This helps the noodles become delightfully chewy and the vegetables stay crisp-tender. Be sure to toss the noodles continuously to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Cooking Techniques for Authentic Chow Mein

Mastering the art of Plain Chow Mein lies in the cooking technique. Here are some tips to achieve that coveted “wok hei” (breath of the wok) flavor:

• High-Heat Stir-Frying: Use a carbon steel wok and crank up the heat to get that signature smoky, charred flavor in the noodles.
• Toss Continuously: Keep the noodles and vegetables moving in the wok to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
• Add Sauce at the End: Tossing the noodles with the sauce at the very end helps the flavors marry without overcooking the delicate noodles.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Work in batches if needed to maintain high heat and prevent steaming the ingredients.

With a little practice, you’ll be whipping up Plain Chow Mein that rivals your favorite Chinese restaurant.

Serving Suggestions for Plain Chow Mein

Plain Chow Mein is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a main course or as part of a larger spread. Here are some tasty ideas for serving it:

• Protein Additions: Top your Chow Mein with grilled or sautéed chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal.
• Veggie Sides: Pair the noodles with steamed broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, or a fresh salad for a balanced plate.
• Garnishes: Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, sliced green onions, or a drizzle of chili oil for extra flavor and texture.

Plain Chow Mein also makes a fantastic base for other Asian-inspired dishes. Try serving it alongside dishes like Vegetable Lo Mein, Chicken Chow Mein, or Shrimp Chow Mein for a complete and satisfying meal.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

If you loved this Plain Chow Mein recipe, here are some other noodle dishes you might want to try:

• Vegetable Lo Mein
• Chicken Chow Mein
• Shrimp Chow Mein
• Beef Chow Mein
• Easy Fried Rice

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients are needed to make plain chow mein?
The main ingredients for Plain Chow Mein are egg noodles, beansprouts, garlic, spring onions, and a flavorful sauce made with oyster sauce, soy sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil, and chili sauce.

How do I prevent the noodles from sticking together?
To prevent the noodles from sticking, be sure to cook them according to package instructions, drain them well, and toss them continuously in the wok during the stir-fry process. Adding the sauce at the end also helps keep the noodles from clumping together.

Can I make plain chow mein vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! To make Plain Chow Mein vegetarian or vegan, simply omit the oyster sauce and use a vegetarian/vegan-friendly soy sauce or tamari instead. You can also swap in tofu or mushrooms for a protein-packed meatless option.

How long does plain chow mein stay fresh after cooking?
Plain Chow Mein will stay fresh for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The noodles may become a bit softer over time, but they can be easily reheated in a skillet or wok to restore their texture.

Conclusion

Plain Chow Mein is a classic Chinese dish that deserves a spot in your repertoire. With its simple yet flavor-packed ingredients and quick cooking time, it’s the perfect weeknight meal or party appetizer. By mastering the art of high-heat stir-frying and balancing the sauce, you can create an authentic Chow Mein experience right in your own kitchen. So grab your wok and get ready to enjoy the comforting, slurp-worthy deliciousness of Plain Chow Mein!

Looking for more tasty ideas? Visit Elena’s Fast & Flavorful Recipes on Pinterest for a treasure trove of easy meals, comforting bakes, and fun kitchen inspiration!

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