Easy Vegetable Lo Mein

This easy Lo Mein recipe is exactly what you’ve been searching for – it’s so good it might just outshine your favorite takeout. Dive into a world of flavor that’s both simple and spectacular!

Vegetable lo mein garnished with green onion in a dark bowl.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Okay, so here’s the deal with this Veggie Lo Mein – it’s super easy to make, and you can find all the ingredients at your local store. No weird stuff that’s impossible to find, just simple, fresh ingredients that make this dish taste amazing.

The best part? These fresh ingredients make a huge difference. We’re talking crisp veggies and bold flavors that make every bite awesome. It’s not just some noodles with the vegetables cooked down to nothing. It’s straight up tasty!

And guess what? Once you’re done chopping and prepping, cooking this dish is a breeze. It comes together so fast that you’ll be chowing down before you know it. It’s perfect for when you’re super hungry and don’t want to wait forever to eat. Trust me, this lo mein is a game changer for quick and tasty meals

Don’t Sweat The Recipe is supported by its readers. We may earn a commission if you purchase through a link on our site. Learn more.

Ingredients

Alright, let’s break down what you’ll need for this killer lo mein. It’s all pretty straightforward, but each ingredient has its own flavor that makes this dish amazing:

Vegetable Stock: This is the base of your sauce. It brings a nice, mild flavor that makes everything taste better. Vegetable broth works fine, too.
Dark Soy Sauce: It’s like the secret sauce of awesomeness – it adds that rich, umami flavor that’s hard to beat. Using low sodium soy sauce can be used as a substitution but the color will not be as dark.
Oyster Sauce: This is the game-changer! It brings a unique combination of sweetness, saltiness, and a touch of earthiness that really elevates the sauce.
Cornstarch: This is key to thickening up your sauce so it clings to the noodles just right.
Sesame Oil: A touch of this, and you’ve got an instant flavor boost. It’s like a flavor bomb in oil form.
Vegetable Oil: Gets the ginger and garlic going.
Ginger & Garlic: These two are the dynamic duo for kickstarting the dish with an irresistible aroma and flavor.
Bok Choy: Brings a fresh, leafy crunch to the mix. It’s not just about the greens; it’s about that fresh bite.
Carrots: For a pop of color and a hint of sweetness. Plus, they add a nice crunch.
Cooked Stir Fry Noodles: The main star! They’re perfect for soaking up all the flavors.
Green Onions (for garnish): A sprinkle of these on top, and you’ve got both a color pop and a flavor kick.

Each of these ingredients plays its part in creating a dish that’s bursting with flavor, color, and texture. It’s like each one is a piece of a puzzle that comes together to make something seriously tasty.

A Note About Noodles

In the end, it doesn’t matter what kind of noodles you use. Use what you can get your hands on. But, some good options are chinese egg noodles, fresh lo mein noodles, or stir-fry noodles. We tried fresh and dried noodles. We recommend fresh which are usually available at your local grocery store, like these.

How To Make Vegetable Lo Mein

Before we dive into the fun part of cooking, let’s get our prep work out of the way. This is like laying out all your paints before you start a masterpiece.

First up, tackle the fresh ingredients: you’ll want to dice up that ginger and garlic nice and fine. This way, they’ll cook evenly and infuse the dish with their flavors. Then, move on to the bok choy, chopping it into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and perfect forkfuls.

Ingredients for a lo mein dish on a dark surface.

Don’t forget the green onions – slice these guys on a bias for that extra flair and a sharp, fresh taste.

Now, let’s talk sauce. This is where your Lo Mein starts to get its character. Begin by mixing your vegetable stock with cornstarch until the cornstarch is completely dissolved. This step is crucial for a smooth sauce without any lumps.

Once that’s mixed, add the dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil, giving it a good stir. Set this flavorful concoction aside.

Sauce for lo mein in a mixing bowl on a dark surface. — The most delicious lo mein sauce, and it’s just a handful of ingredients!

Lastly, if you’re using dry noodles, cook them according to the package instructions. When they’re just right, rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. This also helps to keep them from sticking together.

If you’re using fresh noodles (which I recommend), just have them ready to go.

With all the chopping, mixing, and noodle prep done, you’re now perfectly set up for the actual cooking. Everything will come together quickly and smoothly, making the cooking process as enjoyable as eating the final dish!

Begin by heating a splash of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. This is where the magic starts. Once the oil is hot, add your finely diced ginger and garlic. Stir them around and let them cook for a minute or two until they become fragrant and start to turn golden.

Next, add your sliced carrots and chopped bok choy to the pan. Give them a good stir and let them cook for a few minutes. You want the veggies to soften slightly but still retain some crunch for texture. As they cook, they’ll start to mingle with the ginger and garlic, creating a wonderful base for the lo mein.

Vegetables for lo mein cooking in a skillet.

Cooked vegetables for lo mein in a skillet.

Once the veggies are just right, it’s time to add the noodles. Give everything a good toss to mix the noodles with the veggies. Then, spread them out in the pan and let them sit undisturbed for a minute or so. This allows the noodles to start getting a bit crispy and golden on the bottom.

Give them another toss or two, making sure everything is well combined. Then, pour your prepared sauce over the noodles and veggies in the pan.

Gently stir everything together, ensuring the noodles and veggies are evenly coated. As the sauce heats up, it will thicken slightly and cling to the ingredients, enveloping them in its rich, savory flavors.

After a couple of minutes, when everything is heated through and the sauce has thickened, turn off the heat. Your Lo Mein is now ready to be served.

Dish it onto plates or into a serving bowl, and sprinkle the chopped green onions on top for a fresh, colorful garnish. And there you have it – a steaming, flavorful, homemade Vegetable Lo Mein that rivals any takeout!

This dish is a testament to the fact that great food doesn’t have to be complicated. With simple, fresh ingredients and a few straightforward steps, you’ve created a meal that’s not just satisfying but also packed with fresh flavors and textures that dance in your mouth.

It’s a perfect dish for a quick weeknight dinner, a casual get-together with friends, or any time you crave something a bit special without the fuss.

So go ahead, enjoy the fruits of your minimal labor, and bask in the glory of your culinary creation. This Lo Mein isn’t just good; it’s a homemade masterpiece that’s sure to impress!

Tips

Customize to Your Taste: The beauty of a dish like Lo Mein is its versatility. Don’t hesitate to swap in your favorite vegetables or add a protein like tofu, chicken, or shrimp. You can also adjust the sauce to your liking, adding a bit more soy for saltiness, a sprinkle of sugar for sweetness, or a splash of rice vinegar for tang. Experiment to find the perfect balance that suits your palate.

High Heat for Quick Cooking: When it comes to stir-frying, high heat is your friend. It helps to cook the ingredients quickly, retaining their crunch and color while infusing them with flavor. Make sure your pan is hot before you add your ingredients. This will give you that authentic stir-fry texture and taste.

Use Cold, Cooked Noodles: If you’re using dry noodles, cook them ahead of time and rinse them under cold water, then let them dry a bit. This prevents them from sticking together and ensures they don’t overcook when stir-fried. Cold noodles also hold up better in the stir-fry process, maintaining their texture and absorbing the sauce more effectively. This little trick can make a big difference in achieving that perfect Lo Mein consistency.

Variations

Protein-Packed Lo Mein: For those looking for a protein boost, you can easily add your choice of protein to this dish. Try thinly sliced chicken breast, beef, shrimp, or tofu. Cook the protein in the pan first, set it aside, and then follow the recipe as usual. Add the cooked protein back into the pan when you add the sauce. This variation is perfect for a more filling meal.

Spicy Lo Mein Twist: If you’re a fan of spice, give your Lo Mein a fiery kick. Add a few dashes of sriracha sauce or a spoonful of chili garlic sauce to your regular sauce mix. You can also throw in some sliced chili peppers when you stir-fry the veggies. This spicy version will surely heat things up for those who love a bit of excitement in their meals.

Gluten-Free and Veggie-Heavy Lo Mein: For a gluten-free option, use rice noodles and a gluten-free soy sauce. You can also pack in even more vegetables like snap peas, bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for an extra nutritious punch. This variation is great for those who are gluten-sensitive or just looking for a way to up their veggie intake.

FAQ’s

Can I make this Lo Mein ahead of time?

Absolutely! Vegetable Lo Mein can be made ahead and reheated. Just keep in mind that the noodles may absorb some of the sauce, so it might not be as saucy as when freshly made. When reheating, you might want to add a splash of water or a little extra soy sauce to freshen it up. It’s great for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days.

What type of noodles are best for Lo Mein?

Traditional Lo Mein uses egg noodles, but you can use almost any type of noodle you like. Spaghetti, linguine, or even ramen noodles work well if you don’t have access to Asian-style noodles. For a gluten-free option, rice noodles are a great substitute.

How can I make this dish healthier?

To make your Lo Mein healthier, you can increase the ratio of vegetables to noodles. Adding a variety of colorful veggies not only enhances the nutritional value but also the visual appeal of the dish. Opt for whole grain or whole wheat noodles if available, and consider using a reduced-sodium soy sauce to cut down on salt intake. Additionally, you can use less oil or a healthier oil option like olive oil or avocado oil for cooking.

Other Asian-Inspired Recipes

Chicken Teriyaki with rice and broccoli.

Delectable Crispy Chicken Teriyaki Thighs Recipe

Smoked Spicy Korean Gochujang Chicken Legs

A plate of Asian chicken wings garnished with green onions and sesame seeds.

Crispy Baked Asian Chicken Wings

Are you on Pinterest? Click the button below to add this recipe to one of your boards!