Vegetable Lo Mein is a flavorful, versatile, and popular Chinese dish, loved for its quick preparation and delicious taste. This dish features stir-fried vegetables tossed with tender noodles in a savory sauce that brings all the flavors together. Whether you’re looking for a healthy meal or a satisfying comfort food, Vegetable Lo Mein is perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep.
One of the best things about Vegetable Lo Mein is its adaptability. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables, and it’s easy to make vegan or gluten-free by tweaking a few ingredients. With a balance of flavors and textures—soft noodles, crispy vegetables, and a savory, umami-rich sauce—this dish is a hit for anyone who enjoys quick and easy stir-fry meals. Whether you’re looking for a fast weeknight dinner or a nutritious meal, this Vegetable Lo Mein recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
Overview of Vegetable Lo Mein
Vegetable Lo Mein is a classic Chinese dish that combines stir-fried vegetables with wheat noodles and a flavorful sauce. The name “Lo Mein” comes from the Cantonese word for “tossed noodles,” and that’s exactly what this dish is—tender noodles tossed with stir-fried vegetables and sauce to create a delicious, harmonious meal.
The key elements of this dish include fresh or dried Lo Mein noodles (or a suitable substitute like spaghetti or udon), a variety of vibrant vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and snow peas, and a savory sauce made from soy sauce, sesame oil, and other ingredients. The dish is cooked using high heat, which helps to quickly stir-fry the vegetables while keeping their crunch and vibrant color.
The flavors in Vegetable Lo Mein are perfectly balanced—salty from the soy sauce, a hint of sweetness from hoisin or sugar, and the nutty richness of sesame oil. You can also add extra protein such as tofu or tempeh to make the dish heartier. This dish is known for its simplicity, but it’s packed with flavor, making it a favorite for both takeout and homemade meals.
Brief History and Cultural Significance of Lo Mein
Lo Mein has its origins in Cantonese cuisine, where noodles have always played a vital role in daily meals. Traditionally, Lo Mein noodles were made from wheat flour and water, and the dish was designed to be quick and convenient, cooked in a hot wok with minimal ingredients. Over time, Lo Mein has become a popular street food in China, particularly in the southern regions, where stir-fried noodle dishes are a staple.
The dish made its way to the United States with the influx of Chinese immigrants in the 19th and early 20th centuries. As Chinese-American cuisine developed, Lo Mein became a beloved part of takeout menus, especially in urban centers. The dish’s adaptability and simplicity made it a hit, allowing home cooks and restaurants alike to prepare it quickly with whatever vegetables or proteins were on hand.
One of the hallmarks of Lo Mein is its versatility. While traditionally made with meat or seafood, Vegetable Lo Mein has gained popularity as more people seek plant-based meals. This version highlights the natural flavors of the vegetables while still delivering the savory, satisfying taste that makes Lo Mein a favorite in Chinese cuisine. The stir-frying method in a wok (or skillet) is essential to achieving the ideal texture and flavor, giving the dish its signature smoky aroma and crisp-tender vegetables.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the recipe, here’s a quick look at the time commitment and yield for Vegetable Lo Mein:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4-6 servings
- Yield: 1 large batch of stir-fry
This dish is ideal for a quick meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. With simple prep and fast cooking, Vegetable Lo Mein is perfect for busy weeknights or as a nutritious lunch.
Essential Tools and Equipment
To make Vegetable Lo Mein, you’ll need the following tools:
- Wok or large skillet: This is the key tool for stir-frying the vegetables and noodles at high heat. A wok helps to evenly distribute heat, ensuring the vegetables cook quickly while maintaining their crunch.
- Large pot: You’ll need a large pot to cook the noodles before tossing them into the stir-fry. Using plenty of water ensures the noodles cook evenly without sticking together.
- Tongs or chopsticks: These are essential for tossing the noodles with the vegetables and sauce. Tongs give you good control when mixing ingredients in the wok, while chopsticks add an authentic touch to the preparation.
- Knife and cutting board: Prepping your vegetables properly is key to this dish. A sharp knife ensures clean, uniform slices, which cook evenly during stir-frying.
- Spatula or wooden spoon: For stirring the vegetables as they cook, a spatula or wooden spoon helps prevent burning and ensures even cooking.
- Colander: Use this to drain the noodles after boiling. It’s important to drain them well to avoid soggy noodles when they’re tossed with the sauce.
Importance of Each Tool
- Wok: The high sides and large surface area of a wok allow for quick, even cooking. If you don’t have a wok, a large skillet will work, but the results might be slightly different in terms of texture.
- Tongs: Stir-frying can be fast-paced, and tongs provide the grip and control needed to toss the noodles and vegetables together without spilling.
- Knife: Precision is key when cutting vegetables for Lo Mein. Uniform slices ensure even cooking and prevent some pieces from becoming overcooked or too soft.
- Spatula: Stirring with a spatula or wooden spoon ensures the garlic and ginger don’t burn and that the vegetables are evenly cooked before adding the noodles.
Preparation Tips
To get the best results with your Vegetable Lo Mein, follow these tips:
- Use Fresh Lo Mein Noodles: If possible, use fresh Lo Mein noodles from an Asian grocery store. They cook quickly and have a softer texture. If you can’t find fresh noodles, dried noodles or even spaghetti work well as substitutes.
- Cut Vegetables Uniformly: It’s important to cut the vegetables into similar-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly. For example, thinly slice bell peppers and julienne the carrots to match the size of the noodles.
- High Heat Cooking: Stir-frying at high heat is key to locking in the flavor and texture of the vegetables. Keep the heat high and stir frequently to prevent burning and achieve that characteristic crisp-tender texture.
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Cook the noodles just until al dente, as they’ll continue cooking when tossed with the sauce and vegetables. Overcooking the noodles can result in a mushy texture.
- Adjust the Sauce: The sauce is the heart of the flavor in this dish. Feel free to tweak the balance of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil to suit your personal taste. You can also add more sugar for sweetness or extra soy sauce for saltiness.
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to make Vegetable Lo Mein:
For the Noodles:
- 10-12 oz Lo Mein noodles (or substitute with spaghetti or udon noodles)
For the Stir-Fried Vegetables:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or peanut oil for more flavor)
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup snow peas
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to taste)
Optional Toppings:
- Green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds
- Sriracha or chili flakes (for heat)
These ingredients come together to create a delicious, balanced dish. The vegetables add texture and color, while the sauce brings depth and umami, making each bite flavorful.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to make Vegetable Lo Mein:
- Cook the noodles: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the Lo Mein noodles or spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, oyster sauce (if using), and sugar. Adjust the seasoning to taste and set the sauce aside.
- Stir-fry the vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, stir-frying until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the carrots, bell peppers, broccoli, mushrooms, and snow peas. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp but still bright in color.
- Combine noodles and sauce: Add the cooked noodles to the wok with the vegetables. Pour the sauce over the noodles and toss everything together, ensuring the noodles are well-coated and the vegetables are evenly distributed.
- Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and a drizzle of sriracha for a spicy kick if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Variations on Vegetable Lo Mein
One of the best things about Vegetable Lo Mein is its versatility. You can easily customize it with different vegetables, sauces, or proteins to suit your taste. Here are some delicious variations to try:
1. Tofu and Vegetable Lo Mein
For added protein, tofu is a perfect choice. Tofu absorbs the sauce well and adds heartiness to the dish.
- Instructions: Use firm or extra-firm tofu. Cut the tofu into cubes and pat it dry to remove excess moisture. Heat a little oil in the wok and stir-fry the tofu until golden and crispy on all sides. Set the tofu aside and follow the main recipe. After tossing the noodles with the sauce and vegetables, add the tofu back in and stir to combine.
- Flavor Profile: The crispy tofu adds a delightful texture, while its neutral flavor complements the vegetables and sauce without overpowering them.
2. Spicy Vegetable Lo Mein
Turn up the heat by adding some spice to your Vegetable Lo Mein.
- Instructions: Add 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha, sambal oelek, or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce. For even more heat, stir-fry sliced fresh chilies along with the garlic and ginger at the start of the recipe.
- Flavor Profile: The heat adds another dimension to the dish, balancing the savory and slightly sweet notes of the sauce with a spicy kick.
3. Gluten-Free Lo Mein
With just a few substitutions, Vegetable Lo Mein can be made gluten-free.
- Instructions: Substitute the Lo Mein noodles with gluten-free rice noodles, buckwheat soba noodles, or gluten-free spaghetti. Replace soy sauce with tamari, and ensure all other sauces (such as hoisin and oyster sauce) are gluten-free.
- Flavor Profile: You still get all the umami-rich flavors of Lo Mein, but with gluten-free alternatives that don’t compromise on taste or texture.
4. Peanut Sauce Vegetable Lo Mein
For a creamy and nutty twist, try a peanut sauce instead of the traditional soy-based sauce.
- Instructions: Make the sauce by whisking together 3 tablespoons peanut butter, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, and 1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup for a vegan version). Toss the noodles and vegetables in the peanut sauce after stir-frying.
- Flavor Profile: The creamy peanut butter adds richness and depth to the dish, while the soy sauce and vinegar balance the flavors with a salty-sour punch.
5. Veggie-Loaded Lo Mein
Increase the vegetable content for an even healthier, more fiber-packed version.
- Instructions: Add extra vegetables like zucchini, spinach, bok choy, shredded cabbage, or snap peas. Stir-fry them along with the other vegetables and noodles.
- Flavor Profile: This variation is all about texture, with crunchy and tender vegetables creating a satisfying contrast in each bite. The dish remains light but filling, perfect for a nutrient-rich meal.
6. Vegan Lo Mein
To ensure your Lo Mein is completely plant-based, make a few adjustments to the sauces and ingredients.
- Instructions: Omit the oyster sauce and use soy sauce or mushroom soy sauce as a replacement. Double-check that the hoisin sauce is vegan, and add tofu or tempeh for extra protein.
- Flavor Profile: The umami from soy sauce or mushroom soy sauce adds depth, while the stir-fried tofu or tempeh provides heartiness and protein.
7. Low-Carb Vegetable Lo Mein
For a low-carb or keto-friendly option, swap out the noodles for a lighter alternative.
- Instructions: Use spiralized zucchini noodles (zoodles) or shirataki noodles instead of wheat-based noodles. Stir-fry the zoodles briefly to prevent them from getting mushy, and toss them with the vegetables and sauce.
- Flavor Profile: The light and fresh flavor of the zucchini noodles pairs well with the stir-fried vegetables, keeping the dish light but still flavorful.
8. Mushroom and Baby Corn Lo Mein
Mushrooms and baby corn add an earthy and slightly sweet flavor to the dish.
- Instructions: Add 1 cup of sliced shiitake, cremini, or button mushrooms, and 1/2 cup of baby corn. Stir-fry these along with the other vegetables, or use them as the main veggies in the dish.
- Flavor Profile: The mushrooms provide a deep, savory flavor (umami) that enhances the overall taste of the Lo Mein, while the baby corn adds a subtle sweetness and extra crunch.
Pairing Suggestions
Although Vegetable Lo Mein can be enjoyed on its own, pairing it with complementary sides or dishes can elevate your meal even further. Here are some great side dishes that go well with Lo Mein:
1. Spring Rolls
Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables or tofu make an excellent appetizer or side dish to accompany Vegetable Lo Mein.
- Why It Works: The crunchy texture of the fried spring rolls contrasts nicely with the soft noodles. The light, fresh vegetable filling complements the stir-fried vegetables in the Lo Mein, while a dipping sauce like soy sauce or sweet chili sauce ties everything together.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve with soy sauce or hoisin sauce for dipping, alongside the Lo Mein for a complete Chinese-inspired meal.
2. Hot and Sour Soup
A classic Chinese soup, Hot and Sour Soup adds a warming, tangy element to your meal.
- Why It Works: The sourness of the soup balances out the rich flavors of the Lo Mein, while the hint of spiciness enhances the overall flavor experience. The soup’s light texture contrasts with the heartiness of the noodles, providing a refreshing balance.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve a small bowl of hot and sour soup as a starter or side to the Vegetable Lo Mein. The light broth will cleanse your palate between bites of the stir-fried noodles.
3. Edamame
Steamed edamame is a simple, protein-packed side dish that pairs well with Vegetable Lo Mein.
- Why It Works: The salty, slightly nutty flavor of edamame offers a contrast to the savory noodles. Plus, edamame provides extra protein, making the meal more filling and balanced.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve edamame steamed and lightly salted. You can also sprinkle them with chili flakes or sesame seeds for extra flavor.
4. Steamed Dumplings
Soft, flavorful steamed dumplings filled with vegetables or tofu make a great side for Vegetable Lo Mein.
- Why It Works: Dumplings are the perfect complement to Lo Mein because they add both texture and flavor diversity to the meal. The soft dumpling wrapper contrasts with the firm vegetables and noodles, while the filling enhances the overall meal.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve the dumplings with soy sauce, rice vinegar, or a chili dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor alongside the Lo Mein.
5. Chinese Cucumber Salad
A light, refreshing cucumber salad balances out the warm, savory flavors of Vegetable Lo Mein.
- Why It Works: The cool, crisp cucumbers, often dressed with a mix of vinegar, sesame oil, and chili, provide a refreshing contrast to the hot noodles. The salad’s lightness adds balance to the richness of the Lo Mein.
- Serving Suggestion: Prepare a simple cucumber salad with thinly sliced cucumbers, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili flakes. Serve chilled for a refreshing side dish.
6. Vegetable Tempura
Crispy, battered vegetable tempura adds texture and flavor variety to your meal.
- Why It Works: The light, crispy texture of tempura complements the softness of the Lo Mein noodles. The mild flavor of the tempura vegetables contrasts with the stronger flavors in the stir-fry sauce.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve vegetable tempura with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce and rice vinegar. This pairing creates a contrast of textures that is satisfying with every bite.
7. Chinese Pickled Vegetables
Tangy, crunchy pickled vegetables like radish or cabbage make a great accompaniment to the rich flavors of Vegetable Lo Mein.
- Why It Works: The tartness and crunch of pickled vegetables add a refreshing contrast to the savory stir-fry. Their light texture and tangy flavor help cleanse the palate between bites of the rich noodles.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve pickled vegetables as a side dish, either on the same plate as the Lo Mein or in a small bowl alongside it.
8. Stir-Fried Bok Choy
For an additional vegetable side, stir-fried bok choy pairs well with Vegetable Lo Mein.
- Why It Works: Bok choy has a mild flavor and slightly crunchy texture, which pairs well with the flavors of the Lo Mein. The stir-fried greens add freshness and extra nutrients to your meal.
- Serving Suggestion: Stir-fry bok choy with garlic, ginger, and soy sauce, and serve it on the side or on top of the noodles for a healthy, delicious addition.
Common Mistakes To Avoid & How to Perfect the Recipe
Even though Vegetable Lo Mein is a simple dish, there are some common mistakes that can impact its flavor and texture. Here’s how to avoid them:
Common Mistakes
- Overcooking the Noodles
- Problem: Cooking the noodles for too long can lead to mushy, overcooked noodles that lose their bite and texture.
- Solution: Cook the noodles just until al dente, following the package instructions. They will continue to cook slightly when tossed with the sauce and vegetables, so undercooking them slightly can help.
- Using Too Much Sauce
- Problem: Over-saucing the noodles can lead to a soggy dish that overpowers the flavors of the vegetables.
- Solution: Use the recommended amount of sauce in the recipe and adjust to taste. You can always add more sauce if needed, but it’s harder to fix an overly saucy dish.
- Not Stir-Frying at High Heat
- Problem: Stir-frying at low heat can cause the vegetables to become soggy rather than crisp-tender.
- Solution: Always cook at high heat to ensure that the vegetables retain their crunch and vibrant color. Stir-fry quickly and avoid overcooking.
- Overloading the Pan
- Problem: Adding too many vegetables or noodles to the pan at once can lead to steaming rather than stir-frying, resulting in soft, soggy vegetables.
- Solution: Stir-fry in batches if necessary, ensuring that there’s enough space in the pan for the vegetables and noodles to cook evenly at high heat.
Tips to Perfect the Recipe
- Prep Ingredients in Advance: Stir-frying is a fast process, so it’s important to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. This ensures smooth cooking and prevents burning or overcooking.
- Use Fresh, High-Quality Vegetables: Fresh vegetables retain their color, crunch, and flavor better when stir-fried. Make sure to use crisp, fresh produce for the best results.
- Balance the Sauce: Adjust the sauce ingredients to your taste. If you prefer a sweeter Lo Mein, add a little extra sugar. For more umami, increase the soy sauce or oyster sauce.
- Don’t Forget Garnishes: Adding garnishes like green onions, sesame seeds, or chili flakes not only enhances the flavor but also adds a touch of visual appeal to your dish.
Tips, Notes, Storing, and Serving
Additional Tips for Perfecting Vegetable Lo Mein
To ensure your Vegetable Lo Mein turns out delicious every time, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Use Fresh Noodles if Possible: Fresh Lo Mein noodles (found at Asian grocery stores) have a chewier texture and absorb sauces better than dried noodles. If fresh noodles aren’t available, spaghetti or udon noodles work well as substitutes.
- Cut Vegetables Evenly: Make sure to cut all the vegetables into similar-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and prevents some vegetables from becoming too soft while others remain undercooked.
- Stir-Fry in Batches: If you’re making a large batch of Lo Mein, avoid crowding the wok by stir-frying in batches. This helps the vegetables maintain their crisp texture and prevents them from steaming.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Customize the sauce to your liking by adjusting the soy sauce, hoisin, and sesame oil. If you like more saltiness, add a bit more soy sauce; for extra sweetness, add a touch more hoisin or sugar.
- Add a Protein for Extra Heft: While this is a vegetable-focused dish, adding tofu, tempeh, or even edamame can provide more protein, making the dish more filling. For an extra boost of flavor, marinate the tofu before stir-frying.
Storing the Dish
Vegetable Lo Mein is great for meal prep and can be stored for later enjoyment. Here’s how to store it properly:
- In the Refrigerator: Store leftover Vegetable Lo Mein in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The noodles may absorb some of the sauce over time, so feel free to add a splash of soy sauce or a drizzle of sesame oil when reheating.
- In the Freezer: Vegetable Lo Mein can be frozen, but the texture of the noodles may soften. To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in a skillet or microwave.
Reheating Instructions
- Microwave: For a quick reheating option, microwave individual servings of Lo Mein on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. Add a little water or soy sauce if needed to keep the noodles from drying out.
- Stovetop: For best results, reheat in a skillet or wok over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of oil or water and toss the noodles until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions
When serving Vegetable Lo Mein, a few garnishes and sides can enhance the presentation and flavor:
- Garnishes: Top with freshly sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, or a drizzle of sriracha for added heat.
- Sides: Pair Vegetable Lo Mein with a side of spring rolls, steamed dumplings, or a simple cucumber salad for a balanced meal. The freshness of a side salad or crunch of crispy spring rolls complements the soft texture of the noodles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make Vegetable Lo Mein ahead of time?
Yes, Vegetable Lo Mein is perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare the entire dish and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or soy sauce to bring the noodles back to life and prevent them from drying out.
What type of noodles should I use?
Traditionally, fresh Lo Mein noodles are used, but dried Lo Mein noodles, spaghetti, or udon noodles can also work. The key is to cook the noodles until just al dente so they maintain their texture when tossed with the sauce.
How do I prevent my noodles from becoming soggy?
The main key is not to overcook the noodles. Cook them just until al dente and drain them thoroughly. Also, be careful not to overload the wok or skillet when stir-frying, as this can cause the vegetables and noodles to steam rather than stir-fry, resulting in a soggy texture.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be used, but be sure to thaw them first and pat them dry to remove excess moisture. This helps to prevent them from making the dish watery during stir-frying.
How do I make the dish spicier?
For extra heat, you can add sriracha, crushed red pepper flakes, or fresh chili peppers to the sauce or during the stir-frying process. Adjust the level of spiciness based on your personal preference.
Can I use other oils besides vegetable oil?
Yes, peanut oil, sesame oil, or even olive oil can be used for stir-frying. Peanut oil adds a slightly nutty flavor, while sesame oil gives the dish a deeper, toasted flavor. Just be mindful that sesame oil has a low smoke point, so it should be used sparingly during stir-frying or added at the end for flavor.
How do I make a gluten-free version of Lo Mein?
To make Vegetable Lo Mein gluten-free, substitute the soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Ensure that the hoisin and oyster sauce are also gluten-free. For the noodles, use gluten-free rice noodles, soba noodles, or gluten-free spaghetti.
Can I freeze Vegetable Lo Mein?
Yes, you can freeze Vegetable Lo Mein, though the texture of the noodles may soften slightly after thawing. To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely and transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months, and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What are some good protein additions to Vegetable Lo Mein?
To make the dish heartier, consider adding tofu, tempeh, or edamame. You can stir-fry these proteins along with the vegetables or marinate them first for added flavor. Other plant-based proteins like seitan or mushrooms also work well.
What other vegetables work well in Lo Mein?
You can get creative with the vegetables in Lo Mein. Some great options include zucchini, spinach, bok choy, napa cabbage, snap peas, or shredded Brussels sprouts. The key is to use a variety of textures, with some crunchy vegetables and others that wilt down, adding more layers of flavor.
Conclusion
Vegetable Lo Mein is a versatile, flavorful, and satisfying dish that has become a favorite in many kitchens for its simplicity and deliciousness. With a combination of stir-fried vegetables, tender noodles, and a savory sauce, it’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights or for sharing with family and friends. The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability—you can customize it with different vegetables, proteins, or sauces, and even adjust it to meet dietary preferences like vegan or gluten-free.
Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the many variations, Vegetable Lo Mein is guaranteed to become a staple in your meal rotation. Its bold flavors, quick preparation, and endless possibilities make it a go-to dish that satisfies every time. Enjoy experimenting with different vegetables, adding your favorite proteins, and trying new garnishes to make this dish your own.
So grab your wok, fresh vegetables, and noodles, and get ready to whip up a delicious batch of Vegetable Lo Mein that will have everyone coming back for more!
PrintVegetable Lo Mein
Description
Vegetable Lo Mein is a flavorful, versatile, and popular Chinese dish, loved for its quick preparation and delicious taste. This dish features stir-fried vegetables tossed with tender noodles in a savory sauce that brings all the flavors together. Whether you’re looking for a healthy meal or a satisfying comfort food, Vegetable Lo Mein is perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep.
Ingredients
Ingredients List (with measurements)
Here’s what you’ll need to make Vegetable Lo Mein:
For the Noodles:
- 10–12 oz Lo Mein noodles (or substitute with spaghetti or udon noodles)
For the Stir-Fried Vegetables:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or peanut oil for more flavor)
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup snow peas
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to taste)
Optional Toppings:
- Green onions, sliced
- Sesame seeds
- Sriracha or chili flakes (for heat)
These ingredients come together to create a delicious, balanced dish. The vegetables add texture and color, while the sauce brings depth and umami, making each bite flavorful.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps to make Vegetable Lo Mein:
- Cook the noodles: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the Lo Mein noodles or spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and set them aside.
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, oyster sauce (if using), and sugar. Adjust the seasoning to taste and set the sauce aside.
- Stir-fry the vegetables: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, stir-frying until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the carrots, bell peppers, broccoli, mushrooms, and snow peas. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp but still bright in color.
- Combine noodles and sauce: Add the cooked noodles to the wok with the vegetables. Pour the sauce over the noodles and toss everything together, ensuring the noodles are well-coated and the vegetables are evenly distributed.
- Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and a drizzle of sriracha for a spicy kick if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
Additional Tips for Perfecting Vegetable Lo Mein
To ensure your Vegetable Lo Mein turns out delicious every time, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Use Fresh Noodles if Possible: Fresh Lo Mein noodles (found at Asian grocery stores) have a chewier texture and absorb sauces better than dried noodles. If fresh noodles aren’t available, spaghetti or udon noodles work well as substitutes.
- Cut Vegetables Evenly: Make sure to cut all the vegetables into similar-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and prevents some vegetables from becoming too soft while others remain undercooked.
- Stir-Fry in Batches: If you’re making a large batch of Lo Mein, avoid crowding the wok by stir-frying in batches. This helps the vegetables maintain their crisp texture and prevents them from steaming.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Customize the sauce to your liking by adjusting the soy sauce, hoisin, and sesame oil. If you like more saltiness, add a bit more soy sauce; for extra sweetness, add a touch more hoisin or sugar.
- Add a Protein for Extra Heft: While this is a vegetable-focused dish, adding tofu, tempeh, or even edamame can provide more protein, making the dish more filling. For an extra boost of flavor, marinate the tofu before stir-frying.