Panda Express Chow Mein Recipe

Pin1

This Panda Express Chow Mein is a quick and easy stir-fried noodle dish that’s packed with flavor. The combination of bouncy chow mein noodles with crunchy vegetables, all tossed in a savory sauce, makes for a delicious side or main dish that the whole family will love. It’s a perfect blend of texture and taste that replicates the beloved takeout experience in the comfort of your home.

This homemade version is not only tastier but also healthier, using less oil and fresh, quality ingredients. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s an excellent choice for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something comforting yet satisfying. Plus, you can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or protein to make it a complete meal.

Full Recipe:

1 lb chow mein noodles or yaki soba noodles
2 cups cabbage, thinly sliced
1 cup celery, sliced on an angle
1 small onion, sliced
2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)

Chow Mein Sauce:

2 tablespoons regular soy sauce
2 tablespoons oyster sauce (or vegetarian stir fry sauce)
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
½ tablespoon dark soy sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup unsalted chicken stock (or substitute with beef stock or vegetable stock)
½ tablespoon cornstarch

Directions:

In a small bowl, combine all the Chow Mein Sauce ingredients and set aside.
In a large pot of boiling water, blanch the chow mein noodles for 30 seconds until loosened. Strain immediately.
In a large wok over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once hot, add onions, cabbage, and celery. Cook until softened, about 1 minute.
Move the veggies to the side of the wok. Add the remaining vegetable oil into the empty space.
Add the noodles and Chow Mein Sauce to the wok. Toss everything together until mixed well and the noodles have absorbed most of the sauce.
Remove from heat, serve, and enjoy!

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 5 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes

Kcal: 478 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Background and Origin:

Panda Express is a well-known Chinese-American fast-food chain that has gained popularity for its flavorful and accessible Asian-inspired dishes. Among its menu offerings, the Chow Mein stands out as a fan favorite. Chow Mein, which translates to “stir-fried noodles,” is a classic Chinese dish with roots in traditional Chinese cuisine. The version served at Panda Express is adapted to suit American tastes, featuring soft noodles stir-fried with cabbage, onions, and celery in a savory sauce.

Key Features of This Recipe:

Quick and Easy: This homemade Panda Express Chow Mein recipe can be prepared in just 15 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or when you’re looking for a quick yet satisfying meal.
Healthier Option: By using less oil and fresh, quality ingredients, this version is a healthier alternative to the restaurant version. You can control the amount of sodium and oil used, making it a more balanced dish.
Customizable: The recipe is versatile and can be easily customized by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins such as chicken, tofu, or shrimp. This flexibility makes it a great dish for various dietary preferences and needs.
Savory and Flavorful: The combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and garlic creates a rich, savory sauce that coats the noodles and vegetables, delivering a burst of flavor in every bite.
Perfect Side or Main Dish: This chow mein can be enjoyed on its own as a vegetarian main dish or paired with other Asian-inspired dishes like Orange Chicken, General Tso’s Chicken, or Kung Pao Chicken for a complete meal.

Cooking Tips:

Noodles: Traditional chow mein noodles are ideal for this recipe due to their bouncy texture. If you can’t find chow mein noodles, you can substitute with fresh yakisoba noodles, frozen yaki soba noodles, or even ramen noodles (just avoid the instant kind). Be sure to blanch the noodles quickly to avoid overcooking.
Vegetables: Feel free to experiment with the vegetables. Snow peas, bell peppers, bean sprouts, and fresh ginger can be great additions to enhance the flavor and nutritional content of the dish.
Sauce Consistency: To ensure the sauce thickens and coats the noodles evenly, make sure to use cornstarch as indicated. If you prefer a thicker sauce, increase the cornstarch slightly.
Serving Suggestions: Serve this chow mein with a variety of Asian-inspired dishes like Lemon Chicken, Mongolian Beef, or even Crab Rangoon for a restaurant-style meal at home.

Storage and Reheating:

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, simply warm the chow mein in a non-stick pan over medium heat for a few minutes until heated through, or microwave for 2-3 minutes. You may need to add a splash of water or a bit of extra sauce to refresh the noodles during reheating.

Fun Facts:

Chow Mein vs. Lo Mein: Chow Mein is often confused with Lo Mein. While both dishes involve noodles, the key difference lies in preparation. Chow Mein involves stir-frying the noodles, resulting in a slightly crispy texture, whereas Lo Mein noodles are boiled and then tossed with sauce, making them softer and more saucy.
Popularity: The Panda Express Chow Mein is one of the most popular side dishes on their menu, often paired with their famous Orange Chicken. This homemade version brings that beloved taste right into your kitchen without the extra cost and with the bonus of knowing exactly what’s in your food.

Nutritional Benefits:

Vegetables: This chow mein recipe includes nutritious vegetables like cabbage, celery, and onions. Cabbage is rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, which are great for boosting the immune system and promoting digestive health. Celery provides a good source of vitamin K, potassium, and folate, while onions are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and are rich in vitamins and minerals.
Protein Content: Although this recipe is vegetarian, it contains a moderate amount of protein thanks to the chow mein noodles. To increase the protein content, consider adding lean proteins like sautéed chicken, tofu, shrimp, or beef. For vegetarians, adding tofu or edamame can boost the protein levels while keeping the dish plant-based.
Lower in Fat: Unlike the restaurant version, this homemade chow mein uses less oil, reducing the overall fat content. Using a non-stick wok or pan for stir-frying further minimizes the need for excess oil.

Ingredient Spotlight:

Chow Mein Noodles: The star of this dish is the chow mein noodles, known for their firm, chewy texture. These wheat-based noodles are often pre-cooked, requiring just a brief blanching to loosen them before stir-frying. If you prefer gluten-free options, substitute with rice noodles or gluten-free yakisoba noodles.
Oyster Sauce: A key component of the savory sauce, oyster sauce adds depth and umami flavor. For a vegetarian alternative, you can use vegetarian stir fry sauce, which typically mimics the taste of oyster sauce without any seafood ingredients.
Dark Soy Sauce: Dark soy sauce is thicker, less salty, and slightly sweet compared to regular soy sauce. It gives the noodles a rich, dark color and enhances the dish’s flavor profile. If you don’t have dark soy sauce, you can increase the amount of regular soy sauce and add a pinch of sugar for a similar effect.

Variations and Adaptations:

Protein Additions:
- Chicken: Slice chicken breast thinly and stir-fry it separately before adding to the chow mein for added lean protein.
- Tofu: For a vegetarian protein boost, add cubed tofu that’s been pan-fried until crispy.
- Beef or Shrimp: Thinly sliced beef or shrimp can be stir-fried with a touch of soy sauce and garlic for an extra layer of flavor.
Spice it Up: If you enjoy spicy food, add a teaspoon of chili paste or a few slices of fresh red chili to the stir-fry for a spicy kick.
Vegan-Friendly: To make this dish fully vegan, substitute the oyster sauce with a vegetarian alternative and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.

Pairing Suggestions:

Appetizers: Serve this chow mein alongside appetizers like Spring Rolls, Dumplings, or Hot and Sour Soup to create a full Asian-inspired meal.
Main Courses: Pair it with dishes like Sweet and Sour Chicken, Sesame Tofu, or Beef and Broccoli for a hearty and diverse menu.
Beverages: Complement the meal with drinks like Jasmine Tea, Iced Green Tea, or a refreshing Ginger-Lime Mocktail.

Cooking Equipment:

Wok or Large Skillet: Using a wok is ideal for stir-frying due to its high sides and ability to quickly cook food at high temperatures. If you don’t have a wok, a large skillet will work just fine.
Tongs or Chopsticks: Tongs or chopsticks are great tools for tossing the noodles and vegetables together, ensuring even cooking and coating with sauce.
Colander: A colander is helpful for quickly straining the blanched noodles to avoid overcooking.

Tips for the Perfect Chow Mein:

High Heat: Stir-fry the ingredients over high heat to ensure they cook quickly without becoming soggy. This technique helps the vegetables retain their crunch and the noodles achieve a slightly crispy texture.
Prep Ahead: Have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. Stir-frying is a fast process, so having everything within arm’s reach is crucial to prevent overcooking.
Avoid Overcooking Noodles: Blanch the noodles just until they are loosened to maintain their firm texture. Overcooking the noodles can result in a mushy consistency.

History and Cultural Significance:

Chow Mein has its origins in China, with “chow” meaning stir-fry and “mein” referring to noodles. It has since been adapted into countless variations worldwide, each reflecting local tastes and ingredients. The American-Chinese version, popularized by restaurants like Panda Express, has a distinct flavor profile that emphasizes a balance of savory, umami notes with a slightly sweet undertone. This version is typically less oily and more health-conscious, reflecting a modern twist on the traditional dish.

Why Homemade is Better:

Control Over Ingredients: Making chow mein at home allows you to control the quality and quantity of the ingredients used, from fresh vegetables to the type of noodles. This is especially beneficial for those with dietary restrictions or preferences.
Customizable Flavors: Adjust the seasoning to your taste. Prefer it saltier? Add a bit more soy sauce. Want more umami? Increase the oyster sauce. The homemade version gives you the flexibility to cater to your palate.
Fresher Taste: Freshly cooked chow mein offers a taste and texture that surpasses its takeout counterpart. Enjoy the crispness of fresh vegetables and the firm bite of perfectly cooked noodles right out of the pan.

Serving and Presentation:

For a visually appealing presentation, serve the chow mein on a large platter with a garnish of sliced green onions or sesame seeds. You can also add a few slices of fresh chili for a pop of color and heat. Serving in individual bowls with chopsticks adds a touch of authenticity and makes for a fun dining experience.

Conclusion:

This Panda Express Chow Mein recipe offers a delightful blend of taste, convenience, and nutritional benefits. Whether you’re new to Asian cuisine or a seasoned cook, this dish is a great addition to your recipe repertoire. It’s an effortless way to bring the flavors of a beloved takeout classic into your home, made with fresh ingredients and tailored to your taste.