Description
This copycat Panda Express Chow Mein recipe recreates the restaurant favorite with tender chow mein noodles, sweet onions, crisp cabbage, and a savory umami sauce. Quick and easy to prepare, it delivers authentic flavor perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Chow Mein Noodles
- 6 ounces chow mein noodles
Vegetables
- 2 ½ cups sliced green cabbage (about ⅓ cabbage)
- 1 cup thinly sliced onion (about ½ medium onion)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon ginger paste or grated ginger
Sauce & Seasoning
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: Prepare the 6 ounces of chow mein noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain well and set aside to prevent sticking.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add 1 cup of thinly sliced onions and 2 ½ cups of sliced green cabbage. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and slightly softened, about 5 minutes.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon minced garlic, 1 teaspoon ginger paste, 3 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce, and salt and pepper to taste to create a flavorful sauce.
- Combine Noodles and Sauce: Add the cooked noodles back into the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the prepared sauce over the noodles and vegetables, tossing everything together to ensure even coating.
- Finish Cooking: Continue to cook the combined mixture for a few more minutes, allowing the sauce to heat through and slightly thicken. Remove from heat and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use chow mein noodles specifically for the best texture, but thin egg noodles can be a substitute.
- Adjust soy sauce and hoisin sauce amounts to suit your taste preference for saltiness and sweetness.
- Fresh ginger paste or freshly grated ginger is recommended for optimal flavor.
- For added protein, stir in cooked chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu.
- Serve immediately to maintain the crispness of the vegetables and tenderness of the noodles.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
