Large skillet or wok A wok is traditional for Chinese cooking recipes and gives you the ability to stir-fry quickly over high heat. A deep nonstick skillet works great too.
Medium pot For boiling your noodles.
Tongs or a spatula To toss and stir-fry the ingredients evenly.
Grater or microplane For fresh ginger (makes a huge difference).
Mixing bowl To whisk up the sesame ginger sauce.
Ingredients
For the Sauce
¼cuplow-sodium soy sauce
2tablespoonsoyster sauce
1tablespoonhoisin sauce
2teaspoonssesame oil
1tablespoonfresh grated ginger
2garlic clovesminced
1tablespoonhoneyor brown sugar for a deeper sweetness
1tablespoonrice vinega
1tablespooncornstarchto thicken the sauce
¼cupwater
For the Stir Fry
8ozlo mein noodlesor ramen noodles if that’s what you have
1tablespoonneutral oillike canola or vegetable
1lblarge shrimppeeled and deveined
1red bell pepperthinly sliced
1cupsnow peas
1medium carrotjulienned
½small red onionthinly sliced
2green onionschopped (reserve green tops for garnish)
1cupshredded napa cabbageoptional but adds great texture
Toasted sesame seedsfor garnish
Lime wedgesoptional, but adds brightness
Instructions
Prepare the Noodles
Cook the lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking. If using ramen noodles, follow the same approach (skip the seasoning packet). Set aside.
Make the Sesame Ginger Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and water. This blend will thicken as it cooks and coat your noodles with that iconic glossy sheen seen in your favorite lo mein recipes.
Cook the Shrimp
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in your wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and sear for about 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
Add a touch more oil if needed, then toss in the bell pepper, carrot, onion, and snow peas. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until just tender but still crisp. Add the cabbage and green onion (white parts), and cook for 1 more minute. If you're looking for something closer to a chow mein recipe vegetable mix, feel free to include broccoli, bean sprouts, or mushrooms.
Combine Everything
Return the cooked shrimp to the pan, then add in the cooked noodles. Pour the sesame ginger sauce over everything. Toss well to coat, letting the sauce thicken and cling to the noodles (about 1-2 minutes).
Garnish and Serve
Top with green onion tops and toasted sesame seeds. A squeeze of lime juice adds a bright finishing touch. Serve hot and enjoy the savory-sweet-spicy balance of this easy lo mein recipe.