Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this Easy 15-Minute Lo Mein because it brings the flavors of my favorite takeout right into my kitchen in no time. The combination of chewy egg noodles, fresh vegetables, and a savory sauce creates a satisfying meal that’s both quick and delicious. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that I can customize with whatever veggies I have on hand.

Ingredients

8 oz dry egg noodles (package or fresh)
2 carrots, sliced
1/4 yellow onion, sliced
3 cups cabbage, thinly sliced (about 1/4 large cabbage)
3 garlic cloves, diced
1 bunch green onion (green part only)

For the sauce:

2 tbsp dark soy sauce
2 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp brown sugar (or regular sugar)
1 tbsp water
1 tsp sesame oil
1 tbsp cornstarch
1/4 tsp white pepper
1 tbsp oyster sauce

(Hint: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

I start by slicing the onion, carrots, cabbage, garlic, and green onion, setting them aside for later use.
In a bowl, I mix together the dark soy sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, water, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and white pepper until fully combined to make the sauce.
I cook the 8 oz egg noodles in boiling water for about 5 minutes. Once cooked, I run them under cold water to stop the cooking process.
In a hot pan or wok, I cook the garlic, carrots, and onion for 2 minutes. Then, I add the cabbage and continue cooking for 2 more minutes.
I toss in the cooked noodles, sauce, and green onion, cooking for an additional minute, stirring until the noodles are fully coated in the sauce.
Finally, I plate the Lo Mein and enjoy the delightful blend of flavors.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 3
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 5 minutes
Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

Vegetable Lo Mein: I can skip the meat and load up on my favorite veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas for a healthy, colorful dish.
Beef Lo Mein: I can substitute the vegetables with thinly sliced beef, such as flank steak or sirloin, for a heartier version with rich, savory flavors.
Shrimp Lo Mein: I can add cooked shrimp to the dish for a seafood twist. The shrimp pairs well with the soy-based sauce and adds a light, fresh taste.
Spicy Lo Mein: I can turn up the heat by adding chili sauce, sriracha, or red pepper flakes to the sauce. This variation is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice in their meals.
Tofu Lo Mein: I can replace the meat with tofu for a vegetarian-friendly option. Using firm tofu, I can pan-fry it until crispy before adding it to the lo mein.

Storage/Reheating

I can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When I’m ready to enjoy it again, I can reheat it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. If the noodles seem a bit dry, I can add a splash of water or soy sauce while reheating to restore moisture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use regular noodles instead of egg noodles in this recipe?

Absolutely! I can use either dry or fresh regular noodles as a suitable alternative.

Is it necessary to use dark soy sauce, or can I substitute it with regular soy sauce?

While dark soy sauce adds depth, I can use regular soy sauce as a substitute for a slightly lighter flavor.

Can I make this Lo Mein ahead of time and reheat it?

Yes, I can prepare it in advance, but the noodles may absorb some sauce. A quick reheat in a pan or microwave should do the trick.

Are there other vegetables I can add to this recipe?

Certainly! I can experiment with vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added variety.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian by omitting the oyster sauce?

Absolutely! Skipping the oyster sauce will make it vegetarian, and I can enhance the flavor with a bit more soy sauce or a vegetarian substitute.

Conclusion

This Easy 15-Minute Lo Mein is a quick, flavorful, and customizable dish that satisfies my takeout cravings without the wait. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s become one of my go-to meals for busy days. Whether I stick to the classic recipe or try different variations, it never fails to deliver a delicious meal.

Easy 15-Minute Lo Mein Recipe