Beef Lo Mein
Growing up, one of my favorite memories was when my family would gather around the table for dinner and enjoy a big bowl of Beef Lo Mein. It was a dish that brought everyone together, with its delightful combination of flavors and textures. The chewy noodles, succulent pieces of beef, and crisp vegetables were always a hit. I remember my mom’s laughter as she served heaping plates, and we would eagerly dig in, sharing stories about our day. Making Beef Lo Mein is like reliving those joyful moments. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal yet satisfying enough to impress guests. Cooking this dish fills the kitchen with a savory aroma that instantly makes everyone feel at home.
Recipe Snapshot
17 mins
5 mins
12 mins
Medium
550 kcal
35 g
Vegan, Gluten-Free, AIP
20 g
Skillet, Large Pot, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife, Wooden Spoon, Cutting Board
The beauty of Beef Lo Mein lies in its versatility and the way each ingredient plays a vital role. I love that I can throw in whatever veggies I have on hand, making it a flexible option for any day. The star ingredients, like the tender beef and flavorful soy sauce, make this dish irresistible. Each bite is a delightful experience, and I can guarantee it will become a staple in your home, just like it is in mine.
Why We Love This Beef Lo Mein
1. Quick and Easy Preparation
One of the best aspects of Beef Lo Mein is how quickly it comes together. In less than half an hour, you can whip up this delicious dish. With a few simple steps, you’ll have a meal that tastes like it came from your favorite takeout place without the wait.
2. A Meal for Everyone
This dish isn’t just for those who love Asian flavors; it appeals to a wide audience. The combination of beef and noodles is universally loved, and you can tailor the recipe to suit your family’s preferences. Want it a little spicier? Just add some chili flakes!
3. Perfect for Leftovers
Leftovers can be a blessing, especially with Beef Lo Mein. It stores beautifully in the fridge, and the flavors meld even more overnight. You can enjoy it for lunch the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
4. Nutrient-Packed
Beef Lo Mein isn’t just tasty; it’s packed with nutrients. By adding colorful veggies like carrots and broccoli, you’re not only enhancing the flavor but also boosting the health benefits of your meal. It’s a great way to sneak in those important nutrients!
5. Family-Friendly
Getting kids to eat their vegetables can be a challenge, but with this dish, they’ll hardly notice! The combination of noodles and beef with crunchy veggies makes it a fun and appealing meal that children will love.
Beef Lo Mein Shopping List
When it comes to cooking Beef Lo Mein, the ingredients are what make or break the dish. Each element is essential to create the perfect blend of flavors. The key players include spaghetti, which serves as the base, and beef, which adds richness. Then there are the vegetables that not only contribute nutrition but also vibrant colors to the dish. The combination of these ingredients results in a satisfying meal that is both hearty and wholesome.
- 8 oz Thin Spaghetti: This is the main component of the dish, providing a chewy texture that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- 1 tsp Sesame Oil: Adds a nutty flavor that’s characteristic of Asian cooking, enhancing the overall taste.
- 1/4 cup Hot Boiled Water: Used to dissolve the Better Than Bullion, ensuring the beefy flavor is well incorporated.
- 1 tbsp Beef Better Than Bullion: This concentrated flavoring brings a rich, meaty essence to the dish.
- 3 tbsp Soy Sauce: A key component that adds saltiness and umami depth to the Beef Lo Mein.
- 2 tbsp Brown Sugar: Balances the savory flavors with a touch of sweetness.
- 1 lb Beef: Choose your favorite cut; it becomes tender and flavorful after cooking.
- 2 Large Carrots: Adds crunch and sweetness, balancing the dish.
- 2 cups Broccoli: Not only nutritious but adds a delightful color contrast.
- 4 tsp Minced Garlic: Provides a fragrant aroma and depth of flavor.
- Vegetable Oil for Frying: Necessary for cooking and adding a crispness to the vegetables.
How to Prepare Beef Lo Mein
Preparing Beef Lo Mein is a straightforward process that anyone can master. With just a few steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy. Let’s dive into the cooking process and create something truly special.
- Add the sesame oil to the cooked spaghetti immediately after draining it. It’s important to stir well, ensuring every strand is coated. This not only enhances the flavor but also prevents the noodles from sticking together. Set this aside while you prepare the other components.
- Next, in a separate bowl, dissolve the Better Than Bullion with the brown sugar in the hot boiled water. Stir until fully dissolved, then add the soy sauce. This sauce will be the key to the flavor of your Beef Lo Mein, so make sure it’s well mixed and set aside.
- Now for the beef: heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a little vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the beef strips, browning them on both sides. Make sure the skillet is hot enough to sear the meat quickly; this will keep it juicy. After browning, allow the meat to cool slightly before slicing it into 2-inch pieces.
- Return the sliced beef to the skillet and pour in the sauce mixture. Cook for about one minute, allowing the beef to absorb all those delicious flavors. Set the beef aside once done.
- Next, prepare your vegetables. Dice the carrots and broccoli into bite-sized pieces. In the same skillet, add more oil if necessary and sauté the carrots first, cooking until softened. Then add the broccoli and cook for an additional three minutes. You want them to be tender but still maintain some crunch.
- In the final step, mix in the minced garlic with the sautéed vegetables, cooking just until fragrant. This should only take a minute, so watch closely!
- Now it’s time to combine everything. In a large dish, toss the cooked spaghetti, sautéed vegetables, and beef together. Make sure everything is well incorporated, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.
- Serve your Beef Lo Mein hot, garnished with some additional sesame oil or green onions if you desire. Enjoy!
Things Worth Knowing
- One tip to remember is to use a high smoke point oil for frying, such as vegetable or canola oil. This will prevent your oil from burning and ensure a nice sear on the beef.
- Another important aspect is to not overcrowd the pan when cooking the beef. This will allow it to brown properly instead of steaming.
- Timing is critical. To avoid overcooking the vegetables, always add them to the skillet in stages according to their cooking times.
- Make sure to taste your sauce before adding it to the dish. Adjust the sweetness or saltiness if necessary to suit your personal preference.
- For a more authentic touch, consider adding some oyster sauce or fresh ginger to your sauce mixture for depth of flavor.
Ways to Customize
Customizing Beef Lo Mein is part of what makes it such a fun dish to prepare. You can tailor it to your tastes or what you have on hand. Here are some suggestions:
- Add Different Proteins: Try substituting the beef with chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a different taste.
- Mix Up the Veggies: Feel free to include other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or bok choy to enhance the dish.
- Make it Spicy: Add some chili sauce or fresh sliced chilies for an extra kick.
- Change the Noodles: You can use rice noodles or egg noodles instead of spaghetti for a different texture.
- Top it Off: Add chopped green onions or sesame seeds for a crunchy garnish.
- Experiment with Sauces: Mix in teriyaki sauce or hoisin for a unique twist.
- Bulk It Up: Add nuts like peanuts or cashews for an added crunch and protein boost.
What Complements This Beef Lo Mein
Pairing Beef Lo Mein with the right sides can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:
- Spring Rolls: These crispy delights are a perfect match for the flavors of Beef Lo Mein.
- Egg Drop Soup: A warm bowl of soup complements the meal nicely and adds a comforting element.
- Salad: A light Asian-style salad with sesame dressing can provide a refreshing contrast.
- Fried Rice: Serve alongside some fried rice for a heartier meal.
- Steamed Dumplings: These are a great accompaniment for dipping and savoring.
- Family Gatherings: This dish works well for casual get-togethers and celebrations.
- Storing Leftovers: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Freezing: While best fresh, you can freeze portions for up to a month. Just reheat thoroughly before serving.
FAQ
Conclusion
Beef Lo Mein is more than just a delicious meal; it’s a dish filled with memories and flavor. Its ease and versatility make it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. I encourage you to try making it at home. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare, and I’m sure it will quickly become a favorite in your household.
Beef Lo Mein
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Add the sesame oil to the cooked spaghetti immediately after draining it. It’s important to stir well, ensuring every strand is coated. This not only enhances the flavor but also prevents the noodles from sticking together. Set this aside while you prepare the other components.
- Next, in a separate bowl, dissolve the Better Than Bullion with the brown sugar in the hot boiled water. Stir until fully dissolved, then add the soy sauce. This sauce will be the key to the flavor of your Beef Lo Mein, so make sure it’s well mixed and set aside.
- Now for the beef: heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a little vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the beef strips, browning them on both sides. Make sure the skillet is hot enough to sear the meat quickly; this will keep it juicy. After browning, allow the meat to cool slightly before slicing it into 2-inch pieces.
- Return the sliced beef to the skillet and pour in the sauce mixture. Cook for about one minute, allowing the beef to absorb all those delicious flavors. Set the beef aside once done.
- Next, prepare your vegetables. Dice the carrots and broccoli into bite-sized pieces. In the same skillet, add more oil if necessary and sauté the carrots first, cooking until softened. Then add the broccoli and cook for an additional three minutes. You want them to be tender but still maintain some crunch.
- In the final step, mix in the minced garlic with the sautéed vegetables, cooking just until fragrant. This should only take a minute, so watch closely!
- Now it’s time to combine everything. In a large dish, toss the cooked spaghetti, sautéed vegetables, and beef together. Make sure everything is well incorporated, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.
- Serve your Beef Lo Mein hot, garnished with some additional sesame oil or green onions if you desire. Enjoy!
Notes
- Storage: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Freezing: While best fresh, you can freeze portions for up to a month. Just reheat thoroughly before serving.
- Variations: Feel free to experiment with different proteins and vegetables to make it your own.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with spring rolls or egg drop soup for a complete meal.
- Meal Prep: This dish stores well, making it great for lunch the next day.
