Vegan chow mein is a delicious and satisfying dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying weekend dinner. This recipe guides you through creating a vibrant, flavorful vegan chow mein that will impress everyone at the table.
What Makes This Vegan Chow Mein Recipe Special?
This isn’t your average Vegan Chow Mein Recipe. We’re using fresh, vibrant vegetables, perfectly cooked noodles, and a savory sauce that ties everything together beautifully.
Colorful vegetables and noodles for vegan chow mein
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Noodles:
- 8 ounces dried chow mein noodles (or your favorite noodles)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
For the Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1-2 tablespoons water (to thin the sauce)
For the Vegetables:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup snap peas
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced (white and green parts separated)
Ingredients for vegan chow mein sauce in a bowl.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Cook the noodles: Cook the noodles according to package directions. Once cooked, drain and toss with 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. This will prevent them from sticking together.
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients: soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, toasted sesame oil, ground ginger, and black pepper. Set aside.
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 2-3 minutes, until softened. Then, add the minced garlic and ginger and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the vegetables: Add the sliced bell peppers, shredded carrots, and sliced shiitake mushrooms to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Incorporate the snap peas: Add the snap peas and white parts of the green onions. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes. You want the snap peas to retain their vibrant green color and satisfying crunch.
Cooking vegetables and noodles for vegan chow mein
- Add the noodles and sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the vegetables. Add the cooked noodles and toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
- Serve and enjoy: Transfer your vegan chow mein to a serving platter or individual bowls. Garnish with the remaining green onion slices.
Tips for the Best Vegan Chow Mein:
- Noodle Substitution: Feel free to use other types of noodles like ramen noodles, spaghetti, or even rice noodles. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Spice It Up: For those who enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
- Protein Power: To make this dish even heartier, consider adding tofu, tempeh, or seitan. Pan-fry or bake your preferred protein separately and add it to the chow mein during the last few minutes of cooking.
FAQs About Vegan Chow Mein:
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free chow mein noodles or your favorite gluten-free noodle variety. Also, ensure that your soy sauce and hoisin sauce are certified gluten-free.
How should I store leftover vegan chow mein?
Let the chow mein cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze vegan chow mein?
While you can freeze vegan chow mein, the texture of the noodles might change slightly upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you do freeze it, reheat it gently in a pan on the stovetop with a splash of water or vegetable broth.
What other vegetables can I add to my chow mein?
Get creative! You can add a variety of vegetables to your liking. Broccoli florets, bok choy, mushrooms, and bean sprouts are all excellent additions.
What should I serve with vegan chow mein?
This dish is incredibly satisfying on its own, but you can pair it with spring rolls, dumplings, or a simple side salad for a more elaborate meal.
This easy vegan chow mein recipe is a testament to how flavorful and satisfying plant-based cooking can be. With its perfect balance of textures and savory flavors, it’s a dish you’ll find yourself coming back to again and again!
