The aroma of garlic and ginger wafts through the kitchen, making my mouth water as I prepare tonight’s meal. There’s something truly special about whipping up a batch of Plain Lo Mein Noodles that not only brings comfort but also suits our busy lifestyles—this dish comes together in just 27 minutes! Perfect for hectic weeknights, these adaptable noodles can transform based on what’s in your pantry, whether you want to pile on sautéed veggies or toss in some protein. Plus, I love that gluten-free options are available, ensuring everyone can enjoy this delicious plate. Ready to dive into a quick, flavorful dish that feels like a warm hug? Let’s get cooking!
Why Choose Plain Lo Mein Noodles?
Simplicity: This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Quick Cooking: With just 27 minutes to your plate, you can enjoy a homemade meal in no time.
Versatile Base: Plain Lo Mein Noodles serve as a delicious canvas—add your favorite proteins or colorful veggies to suit your mood or dietary needs.
Gluten-Free Options: Gluten-free alternatives make this dish accessible for everyone at the table.
Crowd-Pleaser: The familiar flavors of garlic and ginger will satisfy even the pickiest eaters, ensuring seconds are requested!
For more quick meal ideas, explore my Street Style Noodles or try these savory Garlic Chicken Noodles.
Plain Lo Mein Noodles Ingredients
For the Noodles
• Fresh lo mein noodles – The star of the dish; you can substitute with 12 oz of dried egg noodles, cooked al dente for a different texture.
For the Sauce
• Vegetable oil (1 tbsp) – Essential for tossing the noodles to prevent them from sticking together.
• Light soy sauce (1/4 cup) – Provides a savory, umami flavor; regular soy sauce works as a substitute.
• Dark soy sauce (1 tbsp, optional) – Adds richness and a beautiful color to your dish.
• Oyster sauce (1 tbsp, optional) – Enhances the flavor complexity of your Plain Lo Mein Noodles; you may omit it if desired.
• Granulated sugar (1 tsp) – Balances the savory flavors for a rounded taste.
• White pepper (1/2 tsp) – Adds subtle heat and depth to the dish.
• Cornstarch (1 tsp) – Used for thickening the sauce; mix with water to create a slurry.
• Sesame oil (1 tsp) – Drizzle in at the end to infuse aroma and additional flavor.
For the Aromatics
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Foundation of flavor and aroma that forms the essence of this dish.
• Fresh ginger (1 tbsp, grated/minced) – Provides warmth and traditional taste, making your noodles truly authentic.
• Green onions (2, sliced) – Adds freshness; don’t forget to use both white and green parts for varied flavor.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Plain Lo Mein Noodles
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the fresh lo mein noodles and cook for 2-3 minutes until they are al dente, stirring gently to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the noodles in a colander and toss them with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to keep them from clumping together.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together the light soy sauce, optional dark soy sauce, and oyster sauce. Add the granulated sugar and white pepper, stirring until well combined. In a separate small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in a little water to form a slurry. Combine the slurry with the sauce, ensuring everything is smoothly blended for your Plain Lo Mein Noodles.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and the white parts of the sliced green onions. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds, or until the aromatics are fragrant and slightly golden, creating a delightful base for your noodles.
Step 4: Combine Noodles and Sauce
Add the cooked lo mein noodles to the wok, tossing them gently to incorporate with the sautéed aromatics. Pour the prepared sauce over the noodles and continuously toss everything together for 2-3 minutes. You will notice the sauce thickening and beautifully coating each strand of noodle, enhancing the flavors.
Step 5: Add Green Onions
Once the noodles are heated throughout and well-coated, add the remaining green parts of the sliced green onions to the mix. Toss everything together for another 30 seconds to infuse the fresh green onion flavor throughout your Plain Lo Mein Noodles.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Remove the wok from the heat and your savory Plain Lo Mein Noodles are ready to be served! Plate them hot, enjoying the vibrant colors and delightful aroma. This dish is perfect as a quick meal on its own or paired with your favorite sides to complete the meal.
Expert Tips for Plain Lo Mein Noodles
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Extra Sauce: Make double the sauce to ensure that your noodles are well-coated, enhancing flavor and moisture when serving.
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Heat Control: Avoid burning your garlic and ginger by cooking on medium heat; too high can cause these delicate aromatics to scorch and taste bitter.
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Perfect Texture: For the best texture, undercook your noodles by a minute, as they will continue to cook in the hot wok when added with the sauce.
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Vegetable Boost: Incorporating veggies like bell peppers or snap peas not only adds nutrition but also adds color and crunch to your Plain Lo Mein Noodles.
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Protein Options: If adding proteins like chicken or shrimp, quickly stir-fry them before the noodles to ensure they’re cooked thoroughly and seasoned properly before combining.
How to Store and Freeze Plain Lo Mein Noodles
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to let them cool down before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Plain Lo Mein Noodles in an airtight freezer bag or container for up to 3 months. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in a skillet with a splash of water or sesame oil to regain their delightful texture.
Tip for Freshness: If you’re storing leftovers, consider adding a bit more sauce when reheating to keep the noodles flavorful and saucy!
What to Serve with Quick and Flavorful Plain Lo Mein Noodles
Elevate your Plain Lo Mein Noodles meal with delightful sides and beverages, creating an irresistible spread that pleases the entire family.
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Steamed Broccoli: This classic side adds a vibrant green hue while providing a nutritious crunch that beautifully contrasts the tender noodles.
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Crisp Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad featuring sliced cucumbers and a tangy dressing, perfect for cutting through the savory flavors of your noodles.
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Pan-Seared Chicken or Tofu: Adding a bit of protein will bolster the meal, offering a hearty option that’s satisfying and complements the Lo Mein.
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Sesame Green Beans: Tossed in sesame oil, these green beans deliver a nutty flavor and crunchy texture, syncing perfectly with the comfortable noodles.
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Sweet and Sour Pineapple: The sweetness of the fruit brightens up each bite, adding a juicy and fruity element that balances the savory notes of the dish.
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Chilled Sake: A light, refreshing drink option that enhances the meal experience, the subtle flavors of sake pair beautifully with the umami profile of the noodles.
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Mango Sticky Rice: Satisfy your sweet tooth with this delightful dessert featuring sweet coconut rice and ripe mango—a perfect and flavorful way to end the meal.
Each of these pairings enhances the comforting essence of your Plain Lo Mein Noodles while creating a well-rounded dining experience. Enjoy!
Make Ahead Options
These Plain Lo Mein Noodles are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the fresh lo mein noodles and toss them with vegetable oil up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prevent them from sticking together. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce (including the cornstarch slurry) up to 3 days ahead. Keep it in a separate container in the fridge for optimal freshness. When you’re ready to serve, just heat the oil in a wok, sauté the aromatics, add the noodles and sauce, and toss everything together for just a few minutes—this way, you’ll enjoy delicious, restaurant-quality Plain Lo Mein Noodles with minimal effort after a busy day!
Plain Lo Mein Noodles Variations
Let your creativity shine as you customize these delightful noodles to suit your taste buds and pantry!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute fresh lo mein noodles with gluten-free noodles, ensuring everyone can dig in without worry. You won’t sacrifice flavor, just enjoy the same delicious outcome!
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Add Protein: Toss in shredded chicken, beef, or shrimp directly into the stir-fry for a satisfying meal. The added protein transforms these noodles into a hearty dish fit for dinner any night of the week.
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Veggie Delight: Incorporate colorful vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for a nutritious crunch. This twist not only enhances flavor but also adds vibrant colors to your plate, making it more inviting.
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Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or drizzle some hot sauce while cooking. The warmth will awaken your taste buds and elevate the dish to new heights.
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Sweet and Savory: Mix in a touch of honey or maple syrup for a sweet twist alongside the savory sauce. It adds a delightful complexity that makes each bite interesting.
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Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh herbs like cilantro or basil just before serving. They bring a fresh brightness that contrasts beautifully with the rich flavors of the sauce.
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Nutty Flavor: Drizzle sesame oil or top with toasted sesame seeds for a nutty finish. This enhancement takes the Plain Lo Mein Noodles to a whole new level of flavor and aroma.
Feeling adventurous? Why not also explore the unique flavors of Street Style Noodles or try out these savory Garlic Chicken Noodles for more delicious twists on your meal planning!
Plain Lo Mein Noodles Recipe FAQs
What type of noodles should I use for Plain Lo Mein Noodles?
Absolutely! For this dish, fresh lo mein noodles are ideal, providing a delightful texture. However, you can also substitute them with 12 oz of dried egg noodles, cooked al dente if fresh ones aren’t available.
How long can I store leftovers from Plain Lo Mein Noodles?
You can store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain their freshness and flavor.
Can I freeze Plain Lo Mein Noodles?
Yes, you can! To freeze Plain Lo Mein Noodles, place them in an airtight freezer bag or container, ensuring all air is removed before sealing. For best results, separate layers of noodles with parchment paper to prevent them from sticking together. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months.
How can I reheat Plain Lo Mein Noodles without losing their texture?
When reheating, the best practice is to thaw them overnight in the fridge. Then, warm them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or sesame oil to bring them back to life. Toss continuously until heated through, ensuring they stay flavorful and not dry.
Are there any dietary considerations for Plain Lo Mein Noodles?
Very much so! If you have gluten sensitivities, you can substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce. Additionally, feel free to customize this recipe by adding veggies or proteins that align with your dietary preferences.
What if I want to make my Plain Lo Mein Noodles spicier?
If you’re looking for a kick, you can easily amp up the heat! Simply add a pinch of red pepper flakes when stir-frying the garlic and ginger, which will infuse the dish with a delightful spiciness that complements the savory noodles perfectly.
Deliciously Simple Plain Lo Mein Noodles for Quick Dinners
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the fresh lo mein noodles and cook for 2-3 minutes until they are al dente, stirring gently to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain the noodles in a colander and toss them with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to keep them from clumping together.
- In a small bowl, mix together the light soy sauce, optional dark soy sauce, and oyster sauce. Add the granulated sugar and white pepper, stirring until well combined. In a separate small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in a little water to form a slurry. Combine the slurry with the sauce, ensuring everything is smoothly blended for your Plain Lo Mein Noodles.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and the white parts of the sliced green onions. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds, or until the aromatics are fragrant and slightly golden.
- Add the cooked lo mein noodles to the wok, tossing them gently to incorporate with the sautéed aromatics. Pour the prepared sauce over the noodles and continuously toss everything together for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats each strand.
- Once the noodles are heated through and well-coated, add the remaining green parts of the sliced green onions. Toss everything together for another 30 seconds.
- Remove the wok from the heat and serve hot.
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