Lo mein reinvented: the secret to making it with udon noodles

Lo mein, a beloved Chinese dish, is known for its flavorful sauce and tender noodles. Traditionally made with wheat noodles, this recipe offers a delightful twist by using udon noodles, resulting in a chewy and satisfying texture. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of creating mouthwatering lo mein with udon noodles.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 pound udon noodles
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound protein of your choice (chicken, beef, shrimp, tofu)
• 1/2 cup vegetables of your choice (carrots, celery, broccoli)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Udon Noodles:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the udon noodles and cook according to package directions.
• Drain the noodles and rinse with cold water.

2. Sauté the Vegetables and Protein:

• Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok.
• Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened.
• Add the protein of your choice and cook until browned.
• Add the vegetables and sauté until tender-crisp.

3. Prepare the Sauce:

• In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, black pepper, and sugar.

4. Combine the Noodles, Sauce, and Ingredients:

• Add the cooked udon noodles to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables and protein.
• Pour the prepared sauce over the noodles and toss to coat evenly.
• Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the noodles are heated through.

5. Garnish and Serve:

• Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the lo mein.
• Serve immediately with additional soy sauce or chili oil if desired.

Tips for Success:

• Use fresh, high-quality udon noodles for the best texture.
• Cook the noodles al dente to prevent them from becoming mushy.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet when sautéing the ingredients.
• Adjust the amount of sauce to your desired level of flavor.
• Feel free to experiment with different vegetables and proteins to customize your lo mein.

Variations:

• Spicy Lo Mein: Add a teaspoon of chili flakes or Sriracha sauce to the sauce.
• Vegetarian Lo Mein: Omit the protein and add more vegetables, such as mushrooms or bell peppers.
• Seafood Lo Mein: Use shrimp, scallops, or mussels as the protein.

Wrapping Up: The Culinary Delight of Lo Mein with Udon Noodles

This guide has provided you with the essential steps and techniques for crafting delectable lo mein with udon noodles. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a culinary novice, this recipe empowers you to create a flavorful and satisfying meal in the comfort of your own home. Experiment with different ingredients and variations to tailor the dish to your taste preferences. Enjoy the culinary journey and savor the delicious results!

What People Want to Know

1. Can I use other types of noodles besides udon noodles?
Yes, you can use wheat noodles, egg noodles, or rice noodles for a different texture.

2. What if I don’t have oyster sauce?
Hoisin sauce or teriyaki sauce can be substituted for oyster sauce.

3. How do I store leftover lo mein?
Store leftover lo mein in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

4. Can I make lo mein ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and assemble the dish just before serving.

5. What are some other ingredients I can add to my lo mein?
You can add bean sprouts, peanuts, or sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture.