Beef Lo Mein

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Beef Lo Mein is a classic Chinese-American dish featuring tender slices of beef, chewy noodles, and a savory soy-based sauce. It’s quick to prepare and packed with vegetables, making it a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for weeknights or takeout-style dinners at home.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

lo mein noodlesflank steak (thinly sliced against the grain)soy saucesesame oilhoisin sauceoystery saucesgarlicgingergreen onionscarrotsbell peppersbroccolivegetable oilcornstarch (for marinating the beef)black pepper

directions

Cook the lo mein noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.

In a bowl, toss the sliced beef with a bit of soy sauce, cornstarch, and black pepper. Let it marinate for 10-15 minutes.

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

Add the marinated beef and stir-fry until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

In the same pan, add more oil if needed and stir-fry the garlic, ginger, carrots, bell peppers, and broccoli until just tender.

Return the beef to the pan along with the cooked noodles.

In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil, then pour over the noodle mixture.

Toss everything together until evenly coated and heated through.

Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 15 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes

Variations

Swap beef for chicken, shrimp, or tofu for different protein options.

Add mushrooms, snow peas, or baby corn for more variety.

Use rice noodles or spaghetti if lo mein noodles aren’t available.

Spice it up with red pepper flakes or chili oil.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.Add a splash of water or soy sauce to loosen the noodles when reheating.

FAQs

What type of beef is best for Lo Mein?

Flank steak is ideal due to its tenderness when sliced thinly, but sirloin or skirt steak also work well.

Can I use regular spaghetti instead of lo mein noodles?

Yes, spaghetti or linguine can be a good substitute if lo mein noodles are unavailable.

Is Beef Lo Mein spicy?

Traditionally, it’s not spicy, but you can add heat with chili oil or hot sauce if desired.

Do I need a wok?

A wok is helpful for even stir-frying, but a large skillet works fine too.

How do I prevent the noodles from sticking?

Toss the noodles with a little sesame oil after cooking and ensure the pan is hot enough.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely—use tofu and skip the oyster sauce or use a vegetarian alternative.

Can I freeze Beef Lo Mein?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Reheat from frozen with a splash of water.

Why is my beef tough?

Make sure to slice it thinly against the grain and don’t overcook it.

Can I double the sauce?

Yes, for a saucier dish, simply double the sauce ingredients.

Is it healthier than takeout?

Homemade Beef Lo Mein is often healthier since you control the oil, sodium, and ingredients.

Conclusion

Beef Lo Mein is a delicious, fast, and versatile meal that brings the flavors of your favorite takeout into your own kitchen. With tender beef, crisp vegetables, and slurp-worthy noodles, it’s a dish that satisfies every craving and is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.

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