How to Make Beef Lo Mein
The Ingredients
Beef. Today’s lo mein protein of choice. Beef offers protein, iron, and several essential vitamins such as B6 and B12. It’s regarded to be healthy in moderation.
THE BEST BEEF FOR STIR FRYING
- For stir fries, choose a cut of beef that is lean and can be sliced thinly for quick cooking. Sirloin, flank steak, and top round steak all work well (I use them for Teriyaki Beef Stir Fry and Crockpot Beef and Broccoli).
- A ground beef lo mein would be different but still delicious (it works well in this Korean Beef Bowl, for example).
- If you have the means and opportunity, seek out sustainable, grass-fed beef, which is typically regarded as being higher in nutrients and better for the environment than conventionally raised.
Noodles. Saucy, slippery noodles are a pure delight! For a healthy spin, I prefer to use whole grain noodles, which are higher in fiber and nutrients (I use this trick in my Stir Fry Noodles too).
Garlic + Ginger + Soy Sauce. The stir fry Big Three.
Hoisin. This sweet/savory/umami sauce is nearly all you need to make fabulously flavored stir fries. I always have a jar of it on hand.
TIP!
Hoisin is widely available at just about any major grocery store. Look for it in the Asian or international food aisle. Or, use it as a reason to visit your local Asian market.
Vegetables. My favorite combination of vegetables for stir fries is broccoli, bell pepper, and carrots for the array of colors and nutrients. Snow peas are also delicious. That said, you can make stir fry with just about any veggie you have around.
Water Chestnuts. While optional, I have been smitten with their crunch since I was in high school ordering Mongolian beef lo mein with my hard-earned dollars at lunch.
Toasted Sesame Oil. While optional, this adds a professional, finished taste to the lo mein. It’s intensely nutty, savory, and makes the lo mein all the harder to stop eating.
The Directions
1. Prep the Beef. Slice it and coat it in the baking soda mixture.
2. Cook the Noodles. Cook just until they’re al dente.
3. Stir the Sauce Together. A liquid measuring cup works well for this.
4. Cook the Beef With Sauce. Remove it while it’s still a little pink inside.
5. Cook the Vegetables. We want them to be crisp-tender.
6. Combine. Add all the ingredients back to the pan, stirring to heat and coat in the sauce. ENJOY!
Storage Tips
Please continue to the next page (>) for the full list of ingredients and complete cooking instructions. Enjoy this meal!
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