Homemade Chow Mein Noodles Recipe that's Way Better than Panda Express Copycat!

chowmein noodles

🥗Healthier: whole wheat noodles

💰Cheaper: instant ramen noodles

Whole wheat noodles add fiber, while instant ramen is budget-friendly.

oyster sauce

🥗Healthier: hoisin sauce

💰Cheaper: soy sauce

Hoisin sauce offers a similar sweetness, while soy sauce is more economical.

vegetable oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil is healthier, while canola oil is often less expensive.

sesame oil

🥗Healthier: toasted sunflower oil

💰Cheaper: peanut oil

Sunflower oil is lighter, and peanut oil is a cost-effective alternative.

Slice half a white onion into thin strips.

Slice about 2 cups of green cabbage.

Finely mince 3 cloves of garlic.

Slice 2 celery ribs down the middle and chop thinly.

Grate 1 teaspoon of fresh ginger.

Chop green onions for garnish at a sharp angle.

Prepare the sauce by mixing 2 tablespoons of light soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of soy paste, 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce, 2 teaspoons of rice vinegar, 2 tablespoons of water, 2 teaspoons of white sugar, and 1 teaspoon of white pepper in a bowl; set aside.

Heat a pot of water close to boiling for the noodles.

In a wok, add enough vegetable oil to cover the bottom and heat over medium-high heat.

Add the sliced onion and celery to the hot oil and stir-fry for about 1 minute.

Add the sliced cabbage and stir-fry for another couple of minutes until softened but still crunchy.

Make a hole in the center of the vegetables and add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and a pinch of red pepper flakes; stir-fry for another minute or two.

Drop the noodles into the boiling water for 20 seconds, then scoop them out and add them directly to the wok with the vegetables.

Pour the prepared sauce over the noodles and stir everything together with tongs.

Optionally add a splash of Chinese cooking wine (Shaoxing wine) and more soy paste if needed.

Continue stir-frying for a couple more minutes until everything is well combined and heated through; cook longer if you prefer crispy noodles.

Serve the chow mein in a bowl, garnished with sliced scallions.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens