Description
This Irresistibly Easy Homemade Panda Express Chow Mein recipe replicates the beloved Chinese-American takeout classic, featuring tender chow mein noodles sautéed with fresh vegetables and a savory, flavorful sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish combines a harmonious blend of soy and oyster sauces with a touch of sweetness and warmth from garlic and ginger paste.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Noodles
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing vegetables and noodles to golden perfection)
- 1 yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 1/2 head cabbage, shredded
- 2 scallions, sliced (reserve some for garnish)
- 1 pack chow mein noodles with seasoning packet
Sauce
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp garlic paste
- 1 tsp ginger paste
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp white pepper
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, garlic paste, ginger paste, brown sugar, white pepper, and cornstarch until smooth to create the flavorful chow mein sauce.
- Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil, allowing it to warm up for sautéing.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add the sliced onion, celery, and shredded cabbage to the hot skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.
- Add noodles and seasoning: Stir in the chow mein noodles along with the included seasoning packet, ensuring everything is evenly combined.
- Incorporate the sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the noodle and vegetable mixture. Toss everything well so the sauce evenly coats all ingredients.
- Finish cooking: Continue to cook the mixture for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the noodles are heated through and start to crisp up slightly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle with the reserved sliced scallions, and serve the chow mein immediately while hot.
Notes
- For added protein, consider tossing in cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu during the sautéing stage.
- Adjust the soy and oyster sauce quantities to taste if you prefer a saltier or milder flavor.
- Use fresh chow mein noodles if available for even better texture.
- If you like spicier chow mein, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil.
- Ensure you do not overcook the noodles to maintain a slight crispness characteristic of chow mein.
