Description

Learn to make a delicious homemade Beef Lo Mein with tender beef, vibrant veggies, and savory noodles, customizable and perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients List

Gather all ingredients for efficiency and a seamless cooking process.

Main Ingredients:

Beef: 12 oz, thinly sliced (flank steak or sirloin recommended)
Vegetables:
- 1 bell pepper (sliced thinly)
- 1 carrot (julienned or thinly sliced)
- 1/2 cup snow peas (trimmed)
Lo Mein Noodles: 8 oz (use Chinese egg noodles if available)

Sauce Ingredients:

Soy Sauce: 3 tbsp
Oyster Sauce: 2 tbsp
Sesame Oil: 1 tbsp
Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
Ginger: 1-inch piece, minced
Sugar: 1 tsp (optional, to balance flavors)
Black Pepper: 1/2 tsp
Vegetable Oil: For stir-frying

Feel free to adjust quantities based on taste, keeping in mind that Lo Mein’s sauce is all about balance between savory, slightly sweet, and umami notes.

Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

This Beef Lo Mein recipe is quick to prepare and faster to cook once all ingredients are prepped.

1. Marinate the Beef

Place the sliced beef in a bowl.
Add 1 tbsp soy sauce, a dash of sesame oil, and black pepper.
Marinate for 15 minutes. This enhances flavor and tenderizes the beef.

2. Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, sugar (if desired), and black pepper.
Stir until fully mixed. Adjust to taste, adding a touch more soy sauce or sugar as preferred.

3. Cook the Beef

Heat the wok or skillet on high until hot, then add a small amount of vegetable oil.
Sear the beef slices in a single layer, cooking for 2-3 minutes until brown.
Remove beef from the pan and set aside.

4. Boil the Noodles

In a separate pot, boil water and cook noodles until al dente, following package instructions.
Drain and rinse under cold water to prevent sticking. Set aside.

5. Stir-Fry Vegetables

Add a bit more oil to the wok and heat.
Stir-fry carrots and bell peppers for about 2 minutes.
Add snow peas and cook for an additional minute, aiming for crisp-tender vegetables.

6. Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked beef and noodles back into the wok with the vegetables.
Pour the prepared sauce over everything.
Toss and stir continuously, coating all ingredients with sauce. Adjust seasoning if needed.

7. Serve

Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with optional green onions or sesame seeds.
Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful Homemade Beef Lo Mein!

Notes

Important Recipe Tips

Adjusting Sauce to Taste: Start with the recommended sauce measurements and taste as you go. If you prefer a bolder taste, add a bit more soy sauce or a dash of rice vinegar for a hint of tanginess.
Add Heat if Desired: If you like your Lo Mein with a kick, include a few dashes of hot sauce, red pepper flakes, or even a spoonful of chili garlic paste in the sauce mix. Adjust based on your spice preference.
Experiment with Vegetables: While bell peppers, carrots, and snow peas are commonly used, feel free to substitute with broccoli, bok choy, mushrooms, or cabbage for variety. Using seasonal vegetables can add freshness and flavor to the dish.
Enhance with Garnishes: Adding fresh garnishes like sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or a sprinkle of toasted sesame oil just before serving brings an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.

Storing Beef Lo Mein

Proper storage is key to maintaining the taste and texture of Beef Lo Mein. Here’s how to store it to enjoy as leftovers:

Refrigerator Storage: Store leftover Beef Lo Mein in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. Avoid over-packing the container to prevent noodles from sticking together.
Freezing Options: Beef Lo Mein can be frozen, but note that noodles may become slightly softer after thawing. Store it in a freezer-safe container, leaving a small amount of room at the top for expansion. For best quality, consume within 1-2 months.

Reheating Tips

Reheating Lo Mein without losing its texture and flavor requires a few simple techniques:

Stovetop Method: The best way to reheat Beef Lo Mein is on the stovetop. Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet, add the Lo Mein, and stir-fry on medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through. Adding a few splashes of water or broth can help revive the sauce if it appears dry.
Microwave Method: For a quicker option, place the Lo Mein in a microwave-safe dish, cover it loosely, and microwave on medium heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated evenly.
Avoid Overheating: Be careful not to overheat, as it can make the noodles mushy. Reheat only until warm for the best texture.