Chow Mein with ramen noodles is a quick and easy way to enjoy a delicious homemade stir-fry! Ramen noodles are a perfect shortcut to the traditional chow mein noodles, and with a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a flavorful dish that’s just as satisfying.
Easy Chow Mein with Ramen Noodles
Ingredients:
- 2 packs of ramen noodles (discard the seasoning packet)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or sesame oil for more flavor)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, beef, or tofu (optional, use whatever protein you prefer)
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (like bell peppers, carrots, cabbage, and snap peas)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated or minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (or hoisin sauce for a sweeter option)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/2 tsp sugar (optional, for balance)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Ramen Noodles:
- Bring a pot of water to a boil and cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions (usually 2-3 minutes). Drain the noodles and set them aside.
- Prepare the Stir-Fry Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil (if using), and sugar. Set this aside to use later.
- Sauté the Protein and Vegetables:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- If you’re using cooked chicken, beef, or tofu, add it to the skillet first to reheat for 2-3 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil and sauté the garlic and ginger for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp. If using tougher vegetables (like carrots), cook those first and then add quicker-cooking veggies like bell peppers and snap peas.
- Combine Everything:
- Add the cooked ramen noodles and the sauce to the skillet with the veggies. Toss everything together to coat the noodles and veggies evenly. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes to let the noodles soak up the sauce and heat through.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Add the cooked protein back into the skillet and toss to combine.
- Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Optional Add-Ins:
- Spice it up: Add a dash of chili sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Extra flavor: Add a splash of fish sauce or a tablespoon of hoisin sauce for extra umami flavor.
Tips:
- You can mix and match veggies depending on what you have—broccoli, mushrooms, baby corn, or bok choy are all great choices.
- This recipe is super flexible—you can add any leftover protein or veggies you have in your fridge, or even swap the sauce for a sweet chili sauce if you prefer a sweeter taste.
This Chow Mein with ramen noodles is quick, customizable, and perfect for a weeknight dinner! You can even make a double batch and enjoy it as leftovers the next day. 🍜
Would you add any other ingredients to your chow mein, or do you have a favorite twist?
