Beef Lo Mein
Beef Lo Mein is a dish with origins in Chinese cuisine, specifically deriving from Cantonese cooking traditions. The term “lo mein” (撈麵) translates to “stirred noodles” in Cantonese. It refers to a preparation method where boiled wheat-flour noodles are combined with a savory sauce and mixed with various ingredients such as vegetables, meat, or seafood.
Lo mein was brought to the West by Chinese immigrants, particularly during the 19th and early 20th centuries. In its Western adaptation, beef lo mein became popular in Chinese-American restaurants, often featuring a mix of tender beef slices, soy-based sauces, and stir-fried vegetables tailored to suit local tastes. The dish has since evolved into a classic favorite in many countries, blending authentic techniques with local ingredients and flavors.
Ingredients
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tbsp hoisin sauce
1 tsp sesame oil
1/2 tsp sugar (optional)
1/4 cup water or beef broth
8 oz lo mein noodles (or spaghetti)
12 oz beef (flank steak or sirloin), thinly sliced against the grain
2 tbsp vegetable oil (divided)
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp grated ginger
1/2 onion, sliced
1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
1 cup broccoli florets
1 carrot, julienned or sliced
2 green onions, chopped
Optional: Mushrooms, snap peas, or cabbage for extra veggies
Instructions
Cook the lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, sugar (if using), and water or beef broth. Set aside.
Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat. Add the beef slices and cook until browned (about 2-3 minutes). Remove and set aside.
Add the remaining 1 tbsp of oil to the skillet. Sauté garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add onion, bell pepper, broccoli, and carrot. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Add the noodles and pour the sauce over everything. Toss well to combine and cook for another 2 minutes until everything is heated through and evenly coated.
Top with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Enjoy your homemade Beef Lo Mein!
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If you enjoyed this recipe, please take a look at other recipes on my fast, simple and good beef and pasta pages.
Beef Lo Mein