Beef lo mein transports you straight to a steamy wok, where tender beef sizzles with garlic, ginger, and scallions. Springy egg noodles soak up savory soy sauce and toasted sesame oil, while a touch of honey and bright rice vinegar create a perfectly balanced sweet tang. Crisp vegetables add color and crunch as everything comes together in minutes. Warm, comforting, and full of flavor, this easy beef lo mein is ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends when you want something fast and satisfying.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This beef lo mein
- Quick and easy to whip up for busy weeknights.
- Loaded with tender beef and fresh veggies for a nutritious meal.
- Authentic flavors that transport you straight to your favorite Chinese restaurant.
- Customizable with your favorite sauces and ingredients.
- A satisfying dish that the whole family will love!
beef lo mein
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Cook the Noodles – Cook lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: Heat the Oil – Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
- Step 3: Stir-Fry the Beef – Add beef to the skillet and stir-fry until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Step 4: Add Aromatics – Add garlic and ginger to the skillet. Stir-fry until fragrant.
- Step 5: Cook the Vegetables – Add mixed vegetables and cook until crisp-tender.
- Step 6: Combine Ingredients – Return beef to the skillet along with the noodles.
- Step 7: Add Sauces – Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil. Toss to combine.
- Step 8: Season and Serve – Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with green onions and serve immediately.
Notes
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 400 |
| Fat | 15g |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbs | 45g |
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a delicious Beef Lo Mein!
- 8 ounces lo mein noodles – primary ingredient, cooked according to package instructions
- 8 ounces beef sirloin – thinly sliced for quick cooking
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil – for stir-frying
- 2 cloves garlic – minced for flavor
- 1-inch piece ginger – minced for a zesty kick
- 1 cup mixed vegetables – bell peppers, carrots, snow peas for color and nutrition
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce – adds savory depth
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce – brings a rich umami taste
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce – for a hint of sweetness
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil – for a nutty aroma
- Salt and pepper to taste – to season
- 2 green onions – sliced for garnish
How to Make Beef Lo Mein
This delicious Beef Lo Mein recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook. With a total time of 25 minutes, you’ll have a delightful meal ready to enjoy!
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Cook lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Beef
Add beef to the skillet and stir-fry until browned. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Add Aromatics
Add garlic and ginger to the skillet. Stir-fry until fragrant.
Step 5: Cook the Vegetables
Add mixed vegetables and cook until crisp-tender.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Return beef to the skillet along with the noodles.
Step 7: Add Sauces
Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil. Toss to combine.
Step 8: Season and Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with green onions and serve immediately.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Main Course |
| Cuisine | Chinese |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Extra Time | 0 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
| Dietary | High Protein |
| Serves | 4 |
| Best Served | Hot and fresh |
Pro Tips for Making beef lo mein
- Choose tender cuts of beef like flank steak for the best texture.
- Prep all your ingredients before cooking to streamline the process.
- Use fresh vegetables for vibrant color and crunch.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; stir-fry in batches if necessary.
- Adjust the sauce to your taste; add more soy sauce or sesame oil for extra flavor.
How to Serve this beef lo mein
- Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh crunch.
- Serve with a side of crispy spring rolls for extra texture.
- Pair with a light soy sauce or sesame dipping sauce for added flavor.
- Enjoy with a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the richness.
- Top with sesame seeds for a nutty finish.
- Serve in a bowl for a cozy, comforting meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
You can prepare and store beef lo mein for later enjoyment:
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the beef lo mein to cool to room temperature.
- Transfer to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing
- Cool the dish completely before freezing.
- Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers.
- Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth.
- Stir frequently to ensure even heating.
- Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, if preferred.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. What is beef lo mein made of?
Beef lo mein is a delicious stir-fried noodle dish that typically includes tender beef, fresh vegetables like bell peppers and carrots, and soft egg noodles. The dish is flavored with a savory sauce made from soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, giving it that authentic Chinese taste that everyone loves.
2. What is the secret to a flavorful lo mein?
The secret to a flavorful lo mein lies in the sauce and the cooking technique. Using a combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a touch of sesame oil can elevate the flavors significantly. Additionally, stir-frying the ingredients over high heat allows the noodles to absorb the sauce and develop a wonderful, smoky flavor. Don’t forget to add fresh vegetables for added texture and taste!
3. Is Chinese beef lo mein healthy?
Beef lo mein can be a healthy option if prepared with fresh ingredients and in moderation. It provides a good source of protein from the beef and essential vitamins from the vegetables. To make it even healthier, consider using whole wheat noodles and reducing the amount of oil and sauce used in the recipe.
4. What does lo mein usually have in it?
Lo mein typically includes soft egg noodles, a variety of vegetables such as bok choy, carrots, and bell peppers, and a protein like beef, chicken, or shrimp. The dish is often seasoned with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, creating a rich and satisfying meal that is both comforting and delicious.
Final Thoughts
Now that you have this easy beef lo mein recipe in your hands, it’s time to bring a taste of home to your kitchen! Picture the sizzling noodles and tender beef, all tossed together in a savory sauce. It’s simple, satisfying, and oh-so-rewarding. So grab your chopsticks and enjoy every delicious bite your taste buds will thank you!