Plain Chow Mein

Introduction

Satisfy your cravings for a flavorful, comforting meal with Plain Chow Mein—a classic noodle dish celebrated for its simplicity and irresistible texture. This recipe is the perfect choice for those who love bold flavors without excessive fuss, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or as a versatile side for larger meals. Its combination of chewy noodles and savory sauce will make this dish an instant family favorite.

Why Homemade Plain Chow Mein Stands Out

What is it about Plain Chow Mein that keeps us coming back for more? The secret lies in its perfect balance: tender noodles tossed with just the right amount of soy-based sauce, kissed with sesame oil, and cooked over high heat for that sought-after wok char. Despite its simplicity, every bite delivers layered flavors—umami, a hint of sweetness, and a delicate smokiness—that make it more than just “plain” noodles.

Simple, Staple Ingredients for Big Flavor

Playing up the beauty of minimalism, this Chow Mein recipe uses pantry staples to build layers of taste. The key is using quality ingredients and a hot pan; together, they transform humble noodles into a restaurant-worthy dish in under 30 minutes. Customize with your favorite vegetables or protein in future batches, but start simple to appreciate the classic preparation.

💡Meal Planning Tip: Save this recipe to automatically generate a neatly organized shopping list, making grocery trips quick and ensuring you never forget an ingredient for your weekly meals.

Instructions

1. Boil a large pot of water and cook the noodles according to the package instructions until just al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and toss with a teaspoon of oil to prevent sticking.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil. Set aside.
3. Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add vegetable oil, swirl to coat.
4. Add minced garlic and the white parts of the green onions. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds or until fragrant.
5. Add the cooked noodles and stir-fry for 2 minutes, making sure they’re evenly coated with oil and heat through fully.
6. Pour the sauce over the noodles. Toss well until the noodles are evenly coated and heated through—about 2–3 minutes.
7. Taste and add salt or white pepper if desired. Garnish with the green tops of the onion; serve with optional toppings as preferred.

Serving Suggestions for Your Plain Chow Mein

Pair this Chow Mein with stir-fried vegetables, tofu, or a protein of your choice for a more filling meal. Serve alongside steamed dumplings or egg drop soup for a complete Asian-inspired dinner. For a nutritious lunchbox alternative, portion into meal prep containers and reheat throughout the week.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

This recipe yields 2 generous or 3 moderate servings. Each serving contains approximately 320–350 calories, primarily from carbs, with minimal fat and protein unless optional add-ins are included.

Plain Chow Mein (Recap)

Plain Chow Mein is an example of how simplicity can lead to bold, impressive flavors. This dish highlights quality noodles and a balanced sauce—making it a versatile, crowd-pleasing addition to any meal plan.

Weekly Meal Planning

Plain Chow Mein is perfect for meal prepping and planning ahead. Save and schedule this recipe to get day-by-day meal plans and generate a smart shopping list that eliminates ingredient guesswork.

Planning Benefits:

• Automatically consolidates ingredient quantities when you plan multiple recipes
• Shopping lists organized by grocery aisles/store sections
• Reduces wasted food by preventing redundant purchases
• Streamlines your weekly meal prep for less stress

Pro tip: Plan and schedule all your meals and see exactly how many noodles, scallions, or condiments you’ll need for the week—making it easier than ever to shop efficiently and cook with confidence.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes