Vegan Chow Mein

Vegan Chow Mein is a plant-based variation of the well-known Chinese cuisine. The items used to prepare this dish are vegetables, Chow Mein noodles, and a flavorful sauce. Kids love the combination of noodles, veggies, and sauce. Chow Mein is a Chinese term that means stir-fried noodles. The dish originated in Southern China, an essential component of Chinese cuisine. You can make this nutritious and tasty Vegan Chow Mein by adding different sauces and vegetables. It is an outstanding option for every person searching for a delicious and filling lunch. It can be served as a side dish, snack, or as well as a main course. Let’s prepare the tasty Chow Mein at home with the following instructions.

STATS:

• Course: Main Dish
• Cuisine: Chinese
• Diet: Vegan, Vegetarian
• Total Time: Half an hour
• Preparation Time: Fifteen (15) mins
• Cooking Time: 15 mins

EQUIPMENT:

• Large pot (to cook the noodles)
• Wok or big pan
• Cooking spoon
• Small bowl
• One small spoon
• Small plate (to serve the dish)

INGREDIENTS:

• Chow Mein noodles 10 oz.
• Sesame oil half a tablespoon
• Minced garlic cloves 3
• Chopped fresh ginger 1 tbsp
• Peeled carrots 1 1/2 cup
• Broccoli head
• Chopped green onion 3 to 4
• Bean sprouts 12 oz.
• Sliced green cabbage 3 to 4 cups
• Sesame seeds, for topping

For the sauce

• Low-sodium soy sauce 1/4 cup
• Rice vinegar 2 tbsp
• Two tbsps of Vegan-friendly Hoisin sauce
• Maple syrup 1 tbsp
• One tsp of Sesame oil

INGREDIENT NOTES:

Chow Mein noodles:

• It is typically made from wheat flour, water, and salt. I prefer to use dried noodles usually vegan-friendly.

Sesame oil:

• It gives the noodles a unique flavor therefore don’t use any other type of oil.

Hoisin:

• It’s an excellent vegan substitute for the oyster sauce commonly used in chow Mein. Most hoisin sauces are vegan but check the ingredient list.

Soy sauce:

• Use gluten-free tamari sauce instead of low-sodium store-bought soy sauce.

Broccoli:

• Make use of fresh broccoli florets. For this recipe, frozen broccoli is not recommended.

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. First, bring the raw noodles to a boil.
2. Mix the noodles, a dash of kosher salt, and a splash of oil in boiling water.
3. Simmer it for ten to twelve minutes until it’s soft.
4. After cooking, discard the extra water and set aside the noodles.
5. Now, heat the sesame oil in a wok or big pan over a medium-high flame.
6. Next, add the broccoli florets, ginger, carrots, and chopped ginger to the warmed oil.
7. Now, mix all the vegetables with a cooking spoon.
8. Cook it for a minute until a crunch appearance shows.
9. After that, add green onions and cabbage.
10. Simmer for a further two to five minutes.
11. At the same time, add a few tablespoons of water or vegetable broth to assist steam the vegetables.
12. Meanwhile, we will prepare the chow Mein sauce.
13. Add sesame oil, maple syrup, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and soy sauce to a small bowl.
14. Mix all items with a tiny spoon.
15. Set aside for a few times.
16. After the vegetables are cooked, add the bean sprouts, cooked noodles, and chow Mein sauce.
17. Mix everything together and continue heating for another two minutes.
18. The spicy and tasty Vegan Chow Mein is ready.
19. Place the ready dish on a small plate.
20. Top it with sriracha, sesame seeds, and green onions for extra visual appeal.
21. Serve right now.

VARIATIONS:

Veggies:

• Add a variety of colorful vegetables such as baby corn, red peppers, onion, zucchini, bok choy, mushrooms, and snap peas.

Zoodles:

• Using half uncooked noodles and half zucchini noodles is another entertaining and healthy variation. Simply toss the zoodles into the pot and simmer it for about a minute with the sauce and vegetables.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS:

• Serve the tasty Chow Mein with vegan steamed dumplings.
• Pair this yummy dish with air-fry or steamed spring rolls.
• Enjoy it with a cup of warm wonton soup made with vegetable broth.
• Serve the flavorful Chow Mein with baked eggplant.
• Pair it with savory and tasty mushroom fried rice.

TIPS:

• Opt for vegan-friendly noodles made from wheat flour, and rice flour.
• Incorporate a mix of colorful vegetables to add texture, flavor, and nutrients.
• Stir-fry vegetables over high heat to preserve their texture and crispiness.
• Avoid overcooking noodles and vegetables, this can lead to a soggy appearance.
• Try this Chow Mein dish with different seasonings.
• Chop the vegetables into the same size for proper cooking.

STORAGE INFORMATION:

Fridge:

• Save the leftover chow Mein in a closed vessel and refrigerate it for four to five days.

Freezer:

• You can easily store this dish for forty-five to eighty days in the freezer. The taste will not be altered, but the veggies will be slightly mushy after freezing.

Reheating:

• You can refresh the remaining food by reheating it in the microwave and adding a little soy sauce to the noodles, which will over time absorb the sauce.

FAQs:

Can I use tempeh or tofu to make chow Mein?

• Yes, you can add more protein and texture by adding tempeh and tofu.

What can I do to keep the chow Mein from getting too tender?

• Cook the noodles until chewable and quickly stir-fry the vegetables over high heat.

Can I use other types of noodles?

• Yes, you can use several kinds of noodles instead of Chow Mein noodles such as Soba noodles, Lo Mein noodles, Rice noodles, Udon noodles, and Spaghetti.

NUTRITIONAL FACTS/SERVING:

Per serving 2 slices for each person
Total Amount 4 servings
Total Calories 435 kcal
Carbohydrates 81 g
Dietary Fiber 13 g
Protein 20 g
Sugar 17 g
Total Fat 5 g
Sodium 1483 mg
Iron 5 mg