Here’s a quick and easy Chow Mein using ramen noodles 🍜—perfect for a fast, tasty meal with pantry staples.
Ingredients (Serves 2–3)
- 2 packs instant ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packets or save for another use)
- 1–2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, cabbage, frozen stir-fry mix)
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2–3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce or hoisin sauce (optional for sweetness)
- ½ teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
- Protein (optional): cooked chicken, beef, tofu, or shrimp
Instructions
- Cook noodles:
- Boil ramen noodles for 2–3 minutes until just tender.
- Drain and set aside.
- Stir-fry veggies and protein:
- Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add garlic and onion, cook 1–2 minutes.
- Add mixed vegetables (and protein if using) and stir-fry 3–5 minutes until veggies are tender-crisp.
- Combine noodles and sauce:
- Add cooked noodles to the pan.
- Pour in soy sauce, oyster/hoisin sauce, and sesame oil.
- Toss everything together for 1–2 minutes so noodles absorb the flavors.
- Serve hot:
- Optional: sprinkle with green onions, sesame seeds, or crushed peanuts.
Tips & Variations
- Extra flavor: sauté a little ginger with the garlic.
- Crunchy texture: add bean sprouts at the very end.
- One-pan version: skip boiling noodles, just add to pan with ¼ cup water and cover 2 minutes.
If you want, I can make a high-protein version with extra veggies and lean meat that’s still quick and uses ramen noodles.
Do you want me to do that?