Beef Lo Mein

Layered with deep umami flavors, delicious Beef Lo Mein is going to become your new favorite 30-minute meal! It’s tender stir-fried beef with perfectly cooked crisp veggies smothered in an addictively delicious sauce and then tossed with rich yummy Chinese-style egg noodles. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for those busy nights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of sauces provides an irresistible depth of flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
• Customizable: Feel free to substitute vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand!
• Healthy Option: Packed with fresh vegetables and lean protein, this dish is a balanced option for any meal.
• Feed a Crowd: This recipe serves up to 6 people, making it ideal for families or gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather these essential kitchen tools that will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Wok
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Why These Tools Matter

• Wok: Provides high heat and ample space for stir-frying, ensuring even cooking of ingredients.
• Mixing Bowls: Essential for marinating the beef and mixing sauces without any mess.
• Whisk: Helps combine sauce ingredients smoothly for the best flavor distribution.

Ingredients

• 1 pound flank steak (cut in thin strips against the grain)
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low sodium)
• 1 teaspoon peanut oil
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (packed)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium)
• 2 teaspoons dark soy sauce
• 4 tablespoons oyster sauce
• ½ teaspoon white pepper (ground)
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing grape juice
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 pound lo mein noodles (or ramen noodles or any other Asian style noodles)
• 2 tablespoons peanut oil (divided)
• 1 cup mushrooms (sliced)
• 2 cup Napa cabbage (shredded, or regular cabbage)
• 1 medium carrot (julienned)
• 1 medium red bell pepper (julienned)
• 1 cup snow peas
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 3 green onions (cut into 2 inch pieces)

How to Make Beef Lo Mein

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Cook the lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain them and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients thoroughly. Set aside for later use.

Step 3: Marinate the Beef

In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the soy sauce, cornstarch, peanut oil, and baking soda. Add the sliced beef to this mixture and let it marinate for about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon of peanut oil in a large wok over medium-high heat until hot. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry for about 3 to 4 minutes until it’s browned. Transfer the beef to a plate and set aside.

Step 5: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same wok, add the remaining tablespoon of peanut oil. Stir-fry mushrooms, cabbage, carrots, and red bell pepper for about 2 minutes until they are slightly tender.

Step 6: Finish the Beef Lo Mein

Add snow peas and bean sprouts into the wok along with the cooked beef and lo mein noodles. Pour in the prepared sauce evenly over all ingredients. Toss everything together well while cooking for an additional minute.

Step 7: Garnish

Top your homemade Beef Lo Mein with sliced green onions. Serve alongside Sriracha for those who enjoy a little heat and consider pairing it with Homemade Egg Rolls!

Enjoy your meal!

How to Serve Beef Lo Mein

Beef Lo Mein is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it as a main course or a part of a larger meal, there are plenty of serving options to elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Sriracha

• Add a drizzle of Sriracha for a spicy kick that complements the savory flavors of the beef and vegetables.

Serve with Green Onions

• Garnish your dish with freshly sliced green onions for an added crunch and vibrant color.

Accompany with Egg Rolls

• Pair your Beef Lo Mein with homemade egg rolls for a crispy, satisfying side that balances the soft noodles.

Enjoy with Pickled Vegetables

• Serve alongside pickled vegetables to introduce a tangy contrast that enhances each bite of lo mein.

Add Chopped Cashews

• Sprinkle chopped cashews on top for extra texture and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the dish.

How to Perfect Beef Lo Mein

Perfecting Beef Lo Mein requires attention to detail and quality ingredients. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh vegetables and high-quality beef for enhanced flavor and nutrition.
• Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Cook the lo mein noodles al dente; they will continue to cook when tossed in the wok.
• High Heat Stir-Fry: Ensure your wok is hot before adding ingredients. This helps achieve that perfect char and prevents steaming.
• Marinate Properly: Allow the beef to marinate for at least 10 minutes. This enhances tenderness and flavor depth.
• Add Sauce Gradually: Pour the sauce over the ingredients gradually while tossing them together to ensure even coating without sogginess.

Best Side Dishes for Beef Lo Mein

Beef Lo Mein stands out on its own but can be complemented by various delicious side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Spring Rolls: Crispy on the outside and filled with vegetables or shrimp, these are perfect for dipping in sweet chili sauce.
2. Fried Rice: Flavorful fried rice made with vegetables, eggs, and optional protein can enhance your meal’s variety.
3. Sesame Broccoli: Steamed broccoli tossed in sesame oil adds a healthy green option that complements the dish nicely.
4. Asian Slaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the warm noodles.
5. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar provides a cool, crisp balance to your meal.
6. Steamed Dumplings: Soft dumplings filled with meat or veggies make for an excellent pairing, especially when served with soy sauce for dipping.
7. Teriyaki Chicken Skewers: Grilled chicken skewers glazed with teriyaki sauce add a sweet-savory element that pairs well with lo mein.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Beef Lo Mein, even small mistakes can affect the dish’s overall flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the marinade: Neglecting to marinate the beef can result in less flavorful meat. Always take the time to marinate for at least 10 minutes to enhance taste.
• Overcooking the noodles: Cooking the noodles too long can make them mushy. Follow package instructions closely and aim for al dente.
• Using too much sauce: Adding excessive sauce can overwhelm the dish. Start with a smaller amount, adding more as necessary to achieve your desired flavor.
• Neglecting vegetable prep: Not prepping vegetables properly can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure all veggies are cut uniformly for consistent stir-frying.
• Crowding the pan: Overloading the wok can lead to steaming instead of stir-frying. Cook in batches if necessary to maintain high heat and achieve that perfect sear.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Beef Lo Mein in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Beef Lo Mein

• Place in a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion.
• Beef Lo Mein can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Beef Lo Mein

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place Beef Lo Mein in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion into a microwave-safe bowl. Cover loosely and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet with a splash of water or oil, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Beef Lo Mein?

Beef Lo Mein is a popular Chinese noodle dish made with stir-fried beef, colorful vegetables, and savory sauces tossed with egg noodles.

How do I customize my Beef Lo Mein?

You can customize Beef Lo Mein by adding your favorite vegetables like bok choy or broccoli, or by substituting different proteins such as chicken or shrimp.

Can I make Beef Lo Mein ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat before serving for a quick meal.

What kind of noodles should I use for Beef Lo Mein?

Lo mein noodles are traditional, but you can also use ramen or any Asian-style noodles that suit your preference.

Conclusion

Beef Lo Mein is an incredibly versatile dish that balances rich flavors with fresh ingredients. Its quick preparation makes it suitable for busy weeknights while offering plenty of customization options. Try this recipe today and enjoy delicious homemade Chinese cuisine right at your table!