Chowmein is a popular Indo-Chinese dish that’s beloved for its savory flavors, crispy vegetables, and satisfying noodles. Whether you’re craving street-style chowmein or a healthier homemade version, this recipe is easy to follow and delicious.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for 2 servings:
Noodles:
- 200g chowmein or hakka noodles
- Water (for boiling)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp oil
Vegetables:
- 1 cup cabbage, shredded
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 1 medium capsicum (bell pepper), thinly sliced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2–3 spring onions, chopped (keep green and white parts separate)
- 1 tsp garlic, finely chopped
- 1 tsp ginger, finely chopped
- Optional: bean sprouts, mushrooms, or green beans
Sauces & Seasonings:
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp chili sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp tomato ketchup
- 1 tsp vinegar
- Salt to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1–2 tbsp oil (for stir-frying)
Read also :- How to make Pav Bhaji at Home?
Instructions
1. Boil the Noodles
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add salt and a little oil.
- Add noodles and cook according to package instructions (usually 3–4 minutes) until al dente.
- Drain and rinse with cold water to stop cooking. Toss with a bit of oil to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Vegetables
- Wash and slice all vegetables evenly. Keep them ready, as stir-frying happens quickly.
3. Stir-Fry the Veggies
- Heat oil in a large wok or pan over high heat.
- Add chopped garlic, ginger, and the white parts of the spring onion. Sauté for 30 seconds.
- Add onions and stir-fry for 1–2 minutes until slightly translucent.
- Toss in the rest of the vegetables. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes. Keep them crisp – don’t overcook.
4. Add Sauces & Noodles
- Add soy sauce, chili sauce, ketchup, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Add the boiled noodles and toss everything together so the noodles are coated with sauces and mixed with the vegetables.
- Stir-fry for another 1–2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Serve
- Turn off the heat and garnish with green spring onion tops.
- Serve hot with chili sauce or Manchurian on the side.
Tips for the Best Chowmein
- Use a wok or large non-stick pan for even cooking and easy tossing.
- Always cook on high flame for authentic smoky flavor.
- You can add tofu, paneer, egg, or chicken for extra protein.
- For street-style taste, use dark soy sauce and a dash of MSG (optional).
Chowmein is a quick and tasty meal perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a snack. It’s versatile, customizable, and guaranteed to please the whole family. Enjoy cooking and even more — enjoy eating!
