Beef Chow Mein is a classic dish that combines tender beef, crispy vegetables, and chewy noodles in a savory sauce. It’s a favorite in many Asian restaurants and can easily be made at home. With its delicious flavors and quick cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or any time you crave a comforting meal.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Beef Chow Mein at home allows you to control the ingredients and flavors. You can customize it to suit your tastes and dietary needs. Plus, it’s a fun way to impress your family and friends with a dish that tastes just like it came from a restaurant. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for a tasty and satisfying dinner.
How to Make Beef Chow Mein
Making Beef Chow Mein is simple and quick. Just follow these steps to create a delicious meal in no time.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound thinly sliced flank steak
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup beef broth
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger (or ginger paste)
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 6 ounces dry chow mein noodles
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 2 cups coleslaw mix (cabbage and carrot mixture)
- 1 cup bean sprouts (rinsed and strained)
- 2 stalks chopped green onions
Directions:
- Prepare the Beef: In a bowl, mix the sliced flank steak with baking soda and 2 tablespoons of soy sauce. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: In another bowl, combine low-sodium soy sauce, beef broth, sesame oil, oyster sauce, grated ginger, light brown sugar, and cornstarch. Whisk until smooth.
- Cook the Noodles: In a large pot of boiling water, cook the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Stir-fry the Beef: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add in the marinated beef and cook until browned, about 2-3 minutes. Then, add minced garlic and stir for another minute.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the coleslaw mix and bean sprouts. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Combine: Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables. Add the cooked noodles and toss everything together until well coated. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Garnish: Top with chopped green onions before serving.
How to Serve Beef Chow Mein
Serve the Beef Chow Mein hot, straight from the pan. It pairs well with extra soy sauce, chili oil, or hot sauce on the side for those who want a bit more flavor. You can also garnish with sesame seeds or additional green onions for an added touch.
How to Store Beef Chow Mein
To store leftovers, place the Beef Chow Mein in an airtight container and refrigerate it. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Beef Chow Mein
- Slice the beef as thinly as possible for quick cooking.
- Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed for better browning.
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas.
- Adjust the sauce ingredients to suit your taste preference; you can add more ginger or reduce the sugar.
Variation
For a healthier version, you can use lean chicken or shrimp instead of beef. You can also experiment with whole grain noodles or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
FAQs
1. Can I make Beef Chow Mein ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and sauce beforehand and then stir-fry everything together when you’re ready to serve.
2. Is Beef Chow Mein suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well and can be packed into individual portions for easy meals throughout the week.
3. Can I use gluten-free noodles for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute regular chow mein noodles with gluten-free noodles if needed. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Enjoy making and savoring your homemade Beef Chow Mein!
Beef Chow Mein
Ingredients
Marinade and Sauce Ingredients
- 1 pound thinly sliced flank steak
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce for marinating the beef
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce for the sauce
- ¼ cup beef broth
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 2 teaspoons freshly grated ginger or ginger paste
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
Noodle and Vegetable Ingredients
- 6 ounces dry chow mein noodles
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil for cooking
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 2 cups coleslaw mix cabbage and carrot mixture
- 1 cup bean sprouts rinsed and strained
- 2 stalks chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, mix the sliced flank steak with baking soda and 2 tablespoons of soy sauce. Let it marinate for about 15 minutes.
- In another bowl, combine low-sodium soy sauce, beef broth, sesame oil, oyster sauce, grated ginger, light brown sugar, and cornstarch. Whisk until smooth.
- In a large pot of boiling water, cook the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cooking
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add in the marinated beef and cook until browned, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and stir for another minute.
- Stir in the coleslaw mix and bean sprouts. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Pour the sauce over the beef and vegetables. Add the cooked noodles and toss everything together until well coated. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Top with chopped green onions before serving.
