Shrimp Chow Mein

Shrimp Chow Mein

Shrimp chow mein is a delicious and quick stir-fry dish that showcases the perfect combination of succulent shrimp, crunchy vegetables, and savory noodles.

Originating from Chinese cuisine, chow mein is a popular comfort food that has captured the hearts and taste buds of food lovers worldwide.

With its colorful presentation and satisfying flavors, shrimp chow mein is ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests. In this recipe, you’ll learn how to create a flavorful shrimp chow mein that’s sure to impress.

Introduction

Chow mein, meaning “stir-fried noodles” in Mandarin, can be made with various proteins, but shrimp is particularly popular for its sweet, tender meat and quick cooking time.

This dish typically includes a mix of fresh vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas, all tossed in a savory sauce that perfectly complements the shrimp and noodles.

The beauty of shrimp chow mein lies in its versatility; you can easily customize the vegetables and sauces based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Let’s get started on making this delightful dish!

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Chow Mein:

• 8 ounces chow mein noodles (fresh or dried)
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil)
• 1 cup bell pepper, sliced (red, green, or yellow)
• 1 cup carrot, julienned
• 1 cup snap peas (or snow peas)
• 1/2 cup onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced

For the Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

How to Make Shrimp Chow Mein

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

If using dried chow mein noodles, cook them according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. If using fresh noodles, you can skip this step.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), cornstarch, rice vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, salt, and pepper until well combined. Set the sauce aside.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Heat a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.

Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced onions and cook for 1-2 minutes until they begin to soften.

Add the minced garlic and ginger, stirring quickly to avoid burning, and cook for an additional 30 seconds.

Toss in the bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas, and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked shrimp to the pan with the vegetables. Add the cooked chow mein noodles and pour the sauce over the mixture.

Using tongs or a spatula, gently toss everything together, ensuring that the noodles, shrimp, and vegetables are evenly coated in the sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 6: Serve

Once everything is well combined and heated, remove the pan from heat. Serve the shrimp chow mein hot, garnished with additional sesame oil or sliced green onions if desired.

Chef’s Note

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preference or seasonal availability. Broccoli, mushrooms, and bean sprouts are excellent additions.

If you like your chow mein spicier, consider adding a splash of chili sauce or red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat.

For a more substantial meal, serve the shrimp chow mein with a side of egg rolls or spring rolls.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 380
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Total Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Cholesterol: 180mg
• Sodium: 700mg

Shrimp chow mein is a delightful dish that encapsulates the essence of Chinese stir-fry, providing a wonderful balance of flavors and textures. With its quick cooking time and easy preparation, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a casual dinner with friends and family.

Enjoy the fresh ingredients and delicious sauce, and savor every bite of this satisfying meal. Dive into the world of shrimp chow mein, and let your taste buds take a journey through the vibrant flavors of Asian cuisine!

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