Lo Mein Shrimp

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Lo Mein Noodles: Traditional lo mein noodles are soft and chewy. If that’s not available, regular spaghetti works just fine in a pinch. You can also opt for whole wheat or gluten-free noodles for a healthier choice.

Shrimp: Medium shrimp are great for this dish, but feel free to use large shrimp instead for a heartier bite. You can also use chicken or tofu if you prefer a different protein.

Vegetables: Bok choy or Napa cabbage gives a nice crunch. If you can’t find them, you can substitute with spinach, snap peas, or even bell peppers for color and texture.

Sauces: Soy sauce is essential for flavor, but if you need a low-sodium option, go for low-sodium soy sauce. For a vegetarian version, you can skip the oyster sauce and use mushroom sauce instead.

How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Shrimp?

Cooking shrimp just right can be tricky! Follow these simple tips to get them perfectly cooked every time.

• Start with a hot pan! This helps to sear the shrimp and lock in flavor.
• Cook shrimp until they turn pink and opaque. This usually takes 2-3 minutes, depending on their size.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan. If you’re making a lot, do it in batches to ensure even cooking.
• Remove the shrimp as soon as they are done. Continuing to cook will make them tough.

With these tips, you’ll have shrimp that’s juicy and tender, making your Lo Mein truly delightful!

How to Make Delicious Lo Mein Shrimp

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Noodles:

• 8 oz (225g) lo mein noodles or spaghetti

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb (450g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

For the Stir-Fry:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup chopped bok choy or Napa cabbage
• 3 green onions, sliced

For the Sauce:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for spice

How Much Time Will You Need?

This Lo Mein Shrimp dish takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. With a bit of chopping and quick stir-frying, you’ll have a tasty meal in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Noodles:

Start by cooking the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions. You want them just al dente, so keep an eye on the time. Once done, drain and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside!

2. Stir-Fry the Shrimp:

In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until they turn pink and are just cooked through. It’s important not to overcook them! Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside.

3. Cook the Aromatics:

Next, add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the same pan. Sauté the minced garlic and sliced onion until they become fragrant and softened, about 1-2 minutes. Your kitchen should smell amazing!

4. Add the Vegetables:

Throw in the shredded carrots, chopped bok choy (or Napa cabbage), and half of the sliced green onions. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until the veggies are tender yet still crisp. This gives them a great texture!

5. Combine Everything:

Return the shrimp to the skillet and add the cooked noodles. Mix everything together well. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!

6. Add the Sauce:

Pour the prepared sauce over the noodle mixture in the pan. Toss everything thoroughly, making sure the noodles and shrimp are evenly coated in the flavorful sauce. Stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through.

7. Serve:

Remove the pan from heat and garnish with the remaining green onions. Serve your delicious Lo Mein Shrimp hot and enjoy your homemade Asian treat!

Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or adjust the seasoning to your taste. Happy cooking!

Can I Use Other Protein Besides Shrimp?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with chicken, beef, or tofu if you prefer a different protein. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the meat is fully cooked.

How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

To make Lo Mein Shrimp gluten-free, simply use gluten-free noodles and a gluten-free soy sauce. Rice noodles can also be a great alternative!

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.

What Vegetables Can I Add or Substitute?

You can mix in a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time for firmer veggies to ensure everything is cooked properly!