Speedy Shrimp Chow Mein Wok This Way to Deliciousness

Recipe Introduction: Shrimp Chow Mein

Fancy some proper Shrimp Noodles tonight? This Speedy Shrimp Chow Mein : Wok This Way to Deliciousness, will be your new favourite.

Honestly, who needs takeaway when you can whip up something this tasty and fresh in less time than it takes to find the remote?

This isn't your average stodgy takeaway fake Cantonese takeout . We are going for a light, bright stir fry recipe that's bursting with flavour, succulent Shrimp , and heaps of crunchy veggies.

It's inspired by the real thing, but elevated!

From China to Your Table: Chow Mein's Story

Chow mein, meaning "stir fried noodles," has its roots in northern China. This Wok recipe is a super Easy weeknight dinner that's become a worldwide favourite.

You could cook this with ease; with about 35 minutes from start to finish, it yields about 4 servings! I always remember my uni days, when I had to stretch my budget and needed a quick and filling option.

This Chinese noodle recipe always saved the day.

Why You'll Love This Chow Mein

This recipe isn’t just about speed. It’s about flavour! It’s also packed with protein and a good dose of veggies.

This quick shrimp stir fry is perfect for a busy weeknight, a casual get-together with friends. Let me tell you, it can even impress a date with your wok skills! What makes this recipe special is the freshness.

No weird MSG here! Only wholesome ingredients and a glorious Homemade chow mein sauce that you control.

What You Will Need

Ready to dive in? Let's grab the ingredients to make the Shrimp and vegetable stir fry .

Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get This Shrimp Chow Mein Sizzling!

Okay, so you wanna make shrimp chow mein ? Awesome! This isn't some complicated, cheffy thing. This is easy weeknight dinner material.

We are going to start with the ingredients and equipment needed for a quick shrimp stir fry . Honestly, if you've got a wok, you are halfway there.

If not, no sweat a large frying pan will work a treat.

Main Ingredients for Your Shrimp Noodles Adventure

Here's what you'll need for four hungry humans:

• 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined. Get the freshest you can find. If they smell fishy, ditch 'em.
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) soy sauce. I prefer low sodium.
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) cornstarch. This helps the sauce thicken up nicely.
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) sesame oil. This is that signature taste.
• A pinch of white pepper. Don't skip it!

For the Cantonese takeout noodles:

• 1 pound (450g) fresh or dried chow mein noodles (egg noodles), cooked according to package directions. Seriously, follow the instructions on the package to the letter!
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil. Any neutral oil works fine.
• 1 onion, thinly sliced. White or yellow is good.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced. Fresh is best, always.
• 1 inch (2.5cm) ginger, minced. Adds a lovely zing.
• 1 cup (115g) sliced carrots.
• 1 cup (120g) sliced cabbage.
• 1 cup (100g) bean sprouts. These are your secret weapon.
• 1/2 cup (50g) sliced scallions (green onions). For garnish.

For that amazing homemade chow mein sauce :

• 1/4 cup (60ml) chicken broth or vegetable broth.
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) soy sauce.
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) oyster sauce. This adds some depth.
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) hoisin sauce.
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) sesame oil.
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) cornstarch.
• 1/4 teaspoon (1ml) white pepper.

Seasoning Notes: Spicing up Your Stir Fry Recipe!

Want to take your shrimp and vegetable stir fry to the next level? The soy sauce, sesame oil, and white pepper combo are key.

Don't be shy with the ginger and garlic. Oyster sauce is optional, but honestly, it adds that "something special." If you don't have it, a dash of dark soy sauce can work too.

Essential Equipment: Wok This Way!

You don't need a million gadgets for this wok recipe . Just a few essentials:

• A wok or large skillet. A wok is best for a true stir fry.
• Cutting board.
• Sharp knife. Safety first!
• Mixing bowls. For marinating.

That's it. Seriously. So, ditch the idea of ordering in, grab these bits, and let's get cooking this shrimp lo mein !.

It will be amazing. Let's make a Chinese noodle recipe for the ages.

Get Your Wok On: Shrimp Chow Mein Time!

Forget dodgy takeaways! We're diving into shrimp chow mein tonight. Trust me, even if you think you can only boil an egg, you can nail this stir fry recipe .

I'm talking easy weeknight dinner material, people. Think of a fresh, vibrant Cantonese takeout , but made by you !

Prep Like a Pro: The Mise en Place Lowdown

First things first, let's get organized. Chop your onion and get those carrots sliced. Mix your sauce ingredients in a bowl: chicken broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, cornstarch, and white pepper.

Basically, have everything ready to rock and roll. This essential mise en place is key for speed. Plus, who wants to be fumbling for garlic while the wok's smoking hot?

Wok This Way: step-by-step Shrimp Chow Mein Magic

1. Marinate your shrimp: Toss those bad boys with soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and white pepper . Let it sit for a bit; 10 minutes will do the trick.
2. Cook your chow mein noodles . Drain 'em and set aside.
3. Heat up 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in your wok. Add your onion, garlic, and ginger . Stir fry for about 1 minute until you can smell that amazing aroma.
4. Toss in your carrots and cabbage . Stir fry for 2- 3 minutes . You want them slightly softened.
5. Push the veggies aside, add the marinated shrimp . Cook for about 2- 3 minutes , until pink and opaque. Don't overcook them. That's a common mistake you definitely want to avoid.
6. Add your noodles and bean sprouts.
7. Pour in the sauce and toss everything together. Make sure those noodles are nicely coated.
8. Garnish with scallions!

Pro Tips for Your Shrimp Chow Mein Triumph

Want to take your shrimp chow mein game to the next level? Make sure that wok is seriously hot! A screaming hot wok is the secret to proper stir frying.

If you have a wok that's not hot enough the noodles will stick to it and they will get gummy.

Don't have oyster sauce? Use a bit of dark soy sauce for a similar flavor kick. This homemade chow mein sauce is a game changer, honestly.

Shrimp noodles never tasted so good!

Recipe Notes: Elevate Your Shrimp Chow Mein Game

Right, so you're about to whip up this easy weeknight dinner of shrimp chow mein ! Brilliant choice. This isn't just another stir fry recipe ; it’s your ticket to a delicious, satisfying meal that rivals even the best Cantonese takeout .

Let's chat about a few things to keep in mind.

Serving Suggestions: Presentation is Key!

Honestly, even a simple dish like shrimp noodles can look like a restaurant meal with a little flair. Try plating the shrimp and vegetable stir fry in a shallow bowl, maybe with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and extra scallions on top.

Fancy, eh? As for sides, spring rolls are always a winner. For drinks, Iced green tea is perfect. A light lager or white wine works well too!

Storage Tips: Making It Last

Got leftovers? No problem! You can keep that delicious Chinese noodle recipe in the fridge for up to 3 days .

Make sure it's in an airtight container though. I wouldn't recommend freezing it, as the noodles can get a bit mushy.

Reheating is easy just pop it in the microwave or give it a quick stir fry in a pan until heated through.

Make sure it reaches 165° F ( 74° C) .

Variations: Making It Your Own

One of the best things about a wok recipe is how adaptable it is. Watching your weight? Ditch half the noodles and double the veggies for a lighter take.

Want to make it vegetarian? Swap out the shrimp for tofu or mushrooms. You can easily adapt this quick shrimp stir fry to your liking.

You can even create your own homemade chow mein sauce , if you like!

Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite

Alright, let's keep it real. This shrimp lo mein is yummy and packed with protein from the shrimp and nutrients from the veggies.

The dish has approximately 450 calories per serving. It has 30g of protein, 15g of fat, and 50g of carbohydrates.

This recipe also has a great amount of vitamins and minerals. Keep in mind this is an estimate, so be mindful of portions.

So there you have it! With these tips, you're all set to make a killer shrimp chow mein . Have fun, experiment, and most importantly, enjoy every bite!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make shrimp chow mein ahead of time? I'm not exactly Speedy Gonzales in the kitchen.

You can prep the ingredients ahead of time to speed up the cooking process! Chop all your veggies, marinate the shrimp, and mix the sauce. However, it's best to cook the shrimp chow mein fresh for the best texture. If you absolutely must make it ahead, be aware that the noodles may become a bit softer when reheated.

What's the best way to store leftover shrimp chow mein? Will it still taste good as a Boxing Day leftover?

Store leftover shrimp chow mein in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, you can microwave it or stir fry it in a pan with a little bit of oil to prevent sticking. Keep in mind that the noodles will continue to absorb sauce as it sits, so it might be a bit drier upon reheating.

Adding a splash of broth or soy sauce can help revive it.

I'm not a huge fan of shrimp. Can I substitute it with something else in this chow mein recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe is super versatile. You can easily substitute the shrimp with diced chicken, pork, or beef. For a vegetarian option, try tofu, tempeh, or simply add more vegetables like broccoli, mushrooms, or snow peas. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure your chosen protein is cooked through.

What kind of noodles work best for this shrimp chow mein recipe? My local shop has a bunch.

While fresh chow mein noodles are ideal, dried egg noodles are a great substitute and are more readily available. Look for noodles that are specifically labeled "chow mein" noodles if possible. If you're feeling adventurous, even spaghetti or linguine can work in a pinch, but the texture will be slightly different.

Just be sure to cook them al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy in the stir fry!

Is there a good substitute for oyster sauce in this shrimp chow mein recipe? I'm allergic to shellfish.

If you're avoiding oyster sauce due to a shellfish allergy, you have a couple of options. You can substitute it with an equal amount of dark soy sauce for a similar color and depth of flavor.

Alternatively, you can use a vegetarian oyster sauce made from mushrooms, which will give you that umami kick without the shellfish.