Shrimp Lo Mein

It’s easy to make Shrimp Lo Mein at home that tastes like it came from your favorite Chinese-American restaurant! This dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a quick meal during a busy week. The combination of fresh vegetables and succulent shrimp makes this recipe stand out with its vibrant flavors and satisfying textures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking time, you can have a delicious meal ready in only 30 minutes.
• Flavorful Sauce: A mix of light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and oyster sauce creates a rich umami flavor that elevates the dish.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping shrimp for chicken or beef.
• Fresh and Healthy: Packed with fresh veggies like carrots, snow peas, and mung bean sprouts, this recipe is nutritious without sacrificing taste.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Shrimp Lo Mein reheats well, making it great for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather all necessary tools to ensure smooth preparation. Having everything ready will save time and help you create the perfect Shrimp Lo Mein.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large skillet
• Pot for boiling noodles
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large skillet: Ideal for stir-frying, ensuring even cooking and allowing ingredients to sear properly.
• Pot for boiling noodles: A wide pot helps cook lo mein noodles evenly without sticking together.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial for balancing flavors in the sauce.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping vegetables quickly and safely.

Ingredients

To prepare Shrimp Lo Mein, gather the following ingredients:

For the Noodles

• 1 pound lo mein noodles (fresh, if possible)

For the Sauce

• 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Shaoxing apple vinegar
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
• pinch ground white pepper

For the Vegetables

• 6 scallions
• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup snow peas (trimmed)
• 8 ounce can water chestnuts (drained)
• 8 ounce can bamboo shoots (rinsed and drained)

For the Protein

• 1 pound raw shrimp (26/30, peeled, deveined, tail on or off)

For Garnish

• 1 tablespoon minced garlic cloves
• 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger (I use a microplane)
• 2 cups mung bean sprouts
• extra soy sauce, chili oil, and/or rice vinegar (for serving – optional)

How to Make Shrimp Lo Mein

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Boil water in a large pot. Add lo mein noodles and cook until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, Shaoxing apple vinegar, oyster sauce, granulated sugar, toasted sesame oil, and ground white pepper. Mix well until sugar dissolves.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic cloves and grated ginger; stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add raw shrimp. Cook until shrimp turns pink, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the wok and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same wok, add remaining vegetable oil. Add shredded carrots, snow peas, water chestnuts, bamboo shoots, and scallions. Stir-fry for about 3-5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return cooked shrimp to the wok with vegetables. Add cooked lo mein noodles along with prepared sauce. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot garnished with mung bean sprouts. Drizzle additional soy sauce or chili oil as desired. Enjoy your homemade Shrimp Lo Mein!

How to Serve Shrimp Lo Mein

Serving Shrimp Lo Mein can elevate your dining experience and impress your guests. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Pair with Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro: Sprinkling fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and freshness.
• Basil: Thai basil, in particular, complements the dish beautifully.

Add Crunchy Toppings

• Chopped Peanuts: A handful of peanuts provides a nice crunch and nutty taste.
• Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a touch of elegance and texture.

Include Dipping Sauces

• Soy Sauce: Offer extra soy sauce on the side for those who enjoy an added salty kick.
• Chili Oil: For spice lovers, chili oil can bring a wonderful heat to the dish.

Serve with Pickled Vegetables

• Pickled Cucumbers: These provide a refreshing contrast to the savory noodles.
• Pickled Radishes: Their tanginess balances the richness of the meal perfectly.

How to Perfect Shrimp Lo Mein

To make sure your Shrimp Lo Mein turns out great every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Noodles: Fresh lo mein noodles provide a better texture than dried ones.
• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Chopping vegetables and measuring sauces beforehand saves time during cooking.
• High Heat Cooking: Stir-fry on high heat for that signature wok char and flavor depth.
• Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Cook shrimp just until they turn pink for the best texture.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning gradually to achieve your desired flavor balance.

Best Side Dishes for Shrimp Lo Mein

Pairing your Shrimp Lo Mein with delicious side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with fresh veggies make a perfect appetizer.
2. Edamame Beans: Lightly salted edamame adds protein and is fun to eat while waiting for the main course.
3. Asian Slaw Salad: A crunchy cabbage salad dressed with sesame vinaigrette is refreshing alongside noodles.
4. Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Quick-cooked bok choy provides a healthy green option that’s easy to prepare.
5. Hot and Sour Soup: This classic soup offers bold flavors that complement the umami of Shrimp Lo Mein well.
6. Fried Rice: Egg fried rice or vegetable fried rice makes a hearty pairing that guests will love.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Shrimp Lo Mein at home can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to steer clear of.

• Using the wrong noodles – Opt for fresh lo mein noodles if available. Dried noodles can alter the texture of your dish.
• Overcooking the shrimp – Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery and tough.
• Skipping the prep – Prepare all vegetables and sauces ahead of time. This ensures a smooth cooking process without delays.
• Not adjusting seasoning – Taste as you go! Adjust soy sauce, vinegar, or any other seasonings based on your preference.
• Ignoring the heat level – Use high heat when stir-frying. This helps achieve that signature wok hei (breath of the wok) flavor that makes takeout so delicious.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let it cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Shrimp Lo Mein

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Separate servings with parchment paper for easy thawing.

Reheating Shrimp Lo Mein

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop – Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking while reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Shrimp Lo Mein at home.

How do I make Shrimp Lo Mein spicy?

To add spice to your Shrimp Lo Mein, include chili oil or sliced fresh chilies during cooking. Adjust according to your taste preference!

Can I use other proteins instead of shrimp?

Absolutely! Chicken, beef, or even tofu can be excellent substitutes. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the protein used.

What vegetables work best in Shrimp Lo Mein?

Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or bok choy. Just ensure they are cut into uniform sizes for even cooking.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure your lo mein noodles are also gluten-free. Many rice noodles can provide a great alternative!

Final Thoughts

Shrimp Lo Mein is a delightful dish that combines flavors and textures perfectly. It’s not just quick but also versatile; feel free to customize it with your favorite proteins or vegetables. Give this recipe a try next time you’re craving Chinese takeout!