If you’re craving takeout but want to skip the wait and cost, this Beef Lo Mein recipe is the perfect solution. Packed with tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles coated in a savory sauce, this dish is a satisfying and wholesome meal. Beef Lo Mein is a Chinese-American favorite that’s both versatile and easy to customize with whatever vegetables or proteins you have on hand. Let’s dive into the delicious world of homemade Beef Lo Mein, where restaurant-quality results come right from your kitchen.
Why We Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Don’t have broccoli or snow peas? Swap in your favorite vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bok choy.
- Full of Flavor: The combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil creates a rich, umami-packed sauce that clings to every strand of noodle.
- Healthy Alternative to Takeout: By cooking at home, you control the ingredients, ensuring a healthier version of your favorite dish.
Ingredients
For the Beef:
- 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
For the Lo Mein:
- 8 oz lo mein noodles or spaghetti
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup snow peas
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- ¼ cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (slurry)
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
How to Make This Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
- Combine thinly sliced beef sirloin with soy sauce and cornstarch in a bowl. Mix well to coat evenly. Let it marinate for 15 minutes to tenderize and flavor the meat.
Step 2: Prepare the Noodles
- Cook the lo mein noodles or spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Beef
- Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and cook until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tbsp of vegetable oil. Add onions and garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
- Toss in the carrots, bell peppers, broccoli, and snow peas. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and beef broth. Pour the sauce over the vegetables and stir to combine.
Step 6: Combine Everything
- Return the cooked beef to the skillet, followed by the cooked noodles. Toss everything together to coat evenly in the sauce.
- Add the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce, stirring for 1-2 minutes.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Success Tips
- Cut Uniform Pieces: Slice beef and vegetables uniformly for even cooking.
- High Heat is Key: Cooking on high heat ensures the beef sears beautifully and the vegetables stay crisp.
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Slightly undercook the noodles as they’ll continue to cook when tossed with the sauce.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables for the best flavor and crunch.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
- Freezing: Not recommended as the noodles and vegetables may lose their texture upon thawing.
Notes
- Protein Options: Swap the beef for chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a different protein option.
- Vegetable Choices: Feel free to mix in seasonal vegetables or whatever you have on hand.
- Noodle Alternatives: If you don’t have lo mein noodles, spaghetti, or udon noodles work well as substitutes.
- Spice it Up: Add a dash of sriracha or red chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables can be used if fresh ones are unavailable. Just be sure to thaw and drain them before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
2. What can I use instead of oyster sauce?
You can substitute hoisin sauce or soy sauce with a pinch of sugar for a similar flavor.
3. How do I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce and noodles to adapt the recipe for a gluten-free diet.
Conclusion
This Beef Lo Mein recipe is the perfect combination of tender meat, vibrant vegetables, and flavorful noodles. It’s a quick, healthy alternative to takeout that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or whip up a satisfying meal in a flash, this recipe delivers every time. So grab your wok and dive into the joy of creating restaurant-style Beef Lo Mein right in your kitchen. Enjoy!