What is chow mein and how to prepare it at home

Chow mein is one of the most popular dishes in Chinese cuisine and has gone greatly global, especially in Chinese restaurants outside of China. This dish has a base of wheat noodles, which can be fried or stir-fried, and is known for being very tasty and versatile.

The term “chow mein” (炒面) comes from Mandarin Chinese, where “chow” means “stir-fried” or “fried” and “mein” means “noodles.” It originated in the Canton region of southern China, but over time it has spread throughout the world, adapting to local influences. The dish has become so popular that when mentioned in many Western countries, it is associated with Chinese cuisine in general, although each region of China has its own version.

Chow mein has its roots in the culinary techniques of southern Asia, especially the province of Canton. When the Chinese emigrated to other countries, they took their recipes with them and adapted them to local ingredients. This led to the creation of versions of chow mein in places like the United States and the United Kingdom that are often milder and sweeter than traditional versions.

In China, chow mein is a very common dish in both homes and restaurants, especially as fast food or during festivals. In more authentic versions, the flavor tends to be more umami, with a hint of saltiness due to the soy sauce and sesame oil.

This dish is usually served as part of a larger meal, accompanied by other dishes, and not as a main dish. However, outside of China, especially in Chinese restaurants in the West, chow mein is usually served as a main dish. It is often presented in large bowls or deep plates.

It is traditionally eaten with chopsticks, although in some cultures outside of China it may also be served with a fork or spoon, depending on local influence. You take a bite of noodles and enjoy it along with pieces of meat and vegetables. In China, it is common for diners to follow the custom of sharing several dishes at the table.

Variations

The variations of chow mein are many and depend both on the region of China and the influence of local cultures. For example, Cantonese chow mein consists of fried noodles with meat and vegetables, very popular in Cantonese cuisine. American-style chow mein has a thicker sauce and is usually less spicy than traditional Chinese versions (it can be found with chicken, pork, or beef). Finally, Indian-style chow mein has been adapted to local tastes and spices such as curry and garam masala are often added.

How to prepare chow mein at home

Ingredients:

• Chow Mein Noodles (about 200g)
• Meat (chicken, pork, beef or shrimp, cut into thin strips) – 200 g
• Vegetables (you can use carrots, cabbage, green onions, bamboo shoots, peppers, or mushrooms) – 1 cup
• Garlic (finely chopped) – 2 cloves
• Fresh ginger (optional, finely chopped) – 1 tsp
• Sesame oil – 1 teaspoon
• Vegetable oil (for frying) – 2 tablespoons
• Soy sauce – 3 tablespoons
• Oyster sauce – 1 tablespoon (optional)
• Hoisin sauce – 1 tablespoon (optional)
• Sugar – 1 teaspoon
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

1. Preparation of the noodles:
   • Cook chow mein noodles in salted water according to package directions (usually 4-5 minutes). Then rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking and drain them well.
2. Preparation of vegetables and meat:
   • While the noodles are cooking, cut the vegetables into thin strips or julienne. If you are using meat, cut it into thin strips.
3. Cook the meat:
   • Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of vegetable oil and cook the meat (chicken, pork, beef or shrimp) until browned and cooked through. Then remove the meat from the pan and set it aside.
4. Saute garlic and ginger:
   • In the same pan or wok, add the minced garlic and ginger. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not burning.
5. Sauté the vegetables:
   • Add the vegetables and sauté for 3-4 minutes until crisp-tender. If you prefer, you can add a little water to cook a little faster.
6. Mix the noodles:
   • Add the cooked noodles to the pan with the vegetables. Add the meat you reserved earlier.
7. Add the sauces:
   • Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce (if using), and sugar. Mix everything well so that the noodles are coated with the sauces and lightly fried in the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
8. Finish the dish:
   • Add sesame oil for a touch of flavor. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve:
   • Serve the noodles on plates and enjoy hot. You can decorate with chopped green onions or sesame seeds.