Tasty Chicken or Shrimp Lo Mein: A Dish with a Global Flair

Tasty Chicken or Shrimp Lo Mein: A Dish with a Global Flair

As the world becomes more fast-paced and hectic, comfort food has become a vital aspect of our lives. There is nothing quite like digging into a bowl of steaming hot noodles, coated in a rich, savory sauce that warms you up from the inside out. That is why Lo Mein, a Chinese dish that has been gaining popularity worldwide, has become a go-to comfort food for many.

Lo Mein, which literally means “stirred noodles,” is a dish that originated in China and has since spread across the globe, gaining popularity in many different countries. The dish typically consists of wheat noodles that are stir-fried with vegetables, meat or seafood, and a savory sauce. Lo Mein is versatile and can be customized to fit individual preferences, making it a favorite for people with different tastes.

Chicken or shrimp Lo Mein is one of the most popular variations of this dish. The combination of tender chicken or succulent shrimp with the flavorful sauce and noodles creates a dish that is both satisfying and comforting. The noodles used in Lo Mein are usually thick and chewy, which provides a great texture and a substantial base for the dish. The vegetables used in the dish, such as carrots, onions, and bok choy, provide a crunchy texture and add some much-needed nutrients.

To make a perfect bowl of chicken or shrimp Lo Mein, one must start with high-quality ingredients. Using fresh vegetables and quality protein such as chicken or shrimp is essential. Preparing the dish involves first cooking the noodles until they are tender but still slightly firm, and then stir-frying them with the vegetables and protein in a wok. The sauce is usually made with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a variety of other seasonings, including ginger and garlic, to add depth of flavor.

Spicy Chicken or Shrimp Lo Mein Recipe

Course Fish and Shellfish, Poultry
Author N. J. Sorensen, RDN

Ingredients

  • 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
  • 8 oz. lo mein noodles
  • 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced
  • 1 yellow onion thinly sliced
  • 1 cup snow peas
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 tbsp. vegetable oil
  • 2 tbsp. soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp. oyster sauce
  • 1 tbsp. chili paste
  • 1 tsp. sugar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Cook the lo mein noodles according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
  • In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, chili paste, and sugar. Set aside.
  • Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add the chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
  • In the same pan, add the garlic, bell pepper, onion, and snow peas. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
  • Return the chicken to the pan and add the sauce mixture. Stir until everything is evenly coated.
  • Add the cooked lo mein noodles to the pan and toss everything together until the noodles are coated in the sauce and heated through.
  • Serve the spicy chicken lo mein hot, garnished with sliced green onions or cilantro, if desired. Enjoy!

Notes

Note: You can substitute the chicken with shrimp or a combination of chicken and shrimp for a seafood twist on this recipe. Simply cook the shrimp in the same way as the chicken and add it to the pan when you return the chicken to the pan in step 5.

Lo Mein is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own, but it also pairs well with other dishes. A plate of crispy spring rolls or potstickers is a great appetizer to start the meal, and a cup of hot and sour soup or egg drop soup can be a fantastic complement to the main course. If you are looking for a more substantial meal, you can also serve Lo Mein with a side of fried rice, which complements the dish well.

In conclusion, Lo Mein is a dish that is both comforting and delicious. Chicken or shrimp Lo Mein is a variation of this dish that has become very popular worldwide due to its flavorful and satisfying qualities. With its versatile nature, Lo Mein can be enjoyed on its own or paired with other dishes, making it an ideal meal for any occasion. So, the next time you’re looking for a satisfying and comforting meal, give Lo Mein a try, and you won’t be disappointed!