Beef Lo Mein
What pairs well with a steaming bowl of beef lo mein? The answer is simpler than you might think. Picture this: a side of crispy spring rolls, perhaps? They add that crunchy texture that's just delightful alongside the soft, saucy noodles.
Prep Time 35 minutes mins
Cook Time 10 minutes mins
Total Time 45 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 550 kcal
For the Beef and Marinade:
- 1 teaspoon low-sodium soy sauce
- ½ teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- 12 ounces flank steak thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 teaspoon neutral vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
For the Sauce:
- ¼ teaspoon ground white pepper
- ½ teaspoon fine salt or to taste
- 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- ½ teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons dark soy sauce
- ¼ teaspoon sugar
To Complete the Dish:
- 1 medium carrot julienned
- 2 scallions julienned (white and green parts separated)
- ½ red bell pepper thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine or dry sherry
- 1 pound fresh lo mein noodles
- 2 cups Napa cabbage shredded
- 2 cups fresh mung bean sprouts
- ½ cup mushrooms sliced (shiitake or button)
- ⅔ cup crisp snow peas
- 1 clove fresh garlic finely minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil divided for cooking
- ½ cup bamboo shoots sliced into thin strips
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Start by marinating the flank steak. In a bowl, combine the low-sodium soy sauce, freshly grated ginger, vegetable oil, cornstarch, and baking soda. Marinate the beef for at least 30 minutes. This not only infuses flavor but also tenderizes the meat.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In another bowl, whisk together the ingredients for the sauce: ground white pepper, salt, light soy sauce, rice vinegar, oyster sauce, toasted sesame oil, dark soy sauce, and sugar. This combination ensures a well-rounded flavor.
Step 3: Prep the Vegetables
While the beef is marinating, prepare your vegetables. Julienne the carrot, slice the bell pepper, and chop the scallions while also separating the green and white parts. This little touch adds a visual appeal to the dish.
Step 4: Cook the Beef
Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated beef, stir-frying it until it’s just browned, about 2-3 minutes. You want it to be tender, not overcooked.
Step 5: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Add the white parts of the scallions, carrot, bell pepper, mushrooms, Napa cabbage, and bamboo shoots to the skillet with the beef. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables become tender yet still crisp.
Step 6: Add Noodles and Sauce
Once the vegetables have softened slightly, push everything to the side of the skillet. If necessary, add a little more oil, then toss in your lo mein noodles. Pour the prepared sauce over the noodles and mix everything thoroughly. Ensure the noodles are coated evenly.
Step 7: Finish with Garnishes
- Use Fresh Noodles: Fresh lo mein noodles will give you the best texture. If you can’t find them, cook dried noodles according to package instructions and rinse them under cold water.
- Don’t Overcook the Beef: Quick cooking over high heat keeps the flank steak tender. A few minutes is usually enough.
- Prep Everything in Advance: Have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go. Stir-frying goes quickly, so preparation is key.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap or add vegetables to your liking. Broccoli, snow peas, or bok choy could work beautifully too.
- Adjust the Sauce: If you prefer a sweeter flavor, add a bit more sugar or oyster sauce. For a spicier kick, consider tossing in some chili paste.
Calories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 70gProtein: 38gFat: 15gFiber: 5g