Beef Lo Mein
Equipment
- Frying Pan or wok
- Tongs
Ingredients
Beef
- 6 oz thinly sliced beef, see note 1
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp shaoxing wine, can omit, but highly recommended
- Pinch of salt
Vegetables
- ½ onion, thinly sliced
- 2 scallions, white and green parts separated
- 6 oz lo mein noodles
Sauce
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
- 1 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp sugar
Instructions
- Marinate the beef with cornstarch, shaoxing wine, and salt for 15 minutes.
- While marinating, prep your onions and separate the scallion whites and greens.
- Mix sauce ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.
- Cook noodles 1 minute before al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a hot pan, heat oil and brown the marinated beef for 2 minutes, then remove.
- Add onions and white scallions and sauté for 2 minutes.
- Add noodles, beef, and sauce to the pan and toss until everything is well-coated.
- Add in the green parts of the scallions, toss again, and remove from heat.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Flavorful, Fast, and Takeout-Worthy: Beef Lo Mein
When you want the comfort of takeout without the delivery fee or the wait, this Beef Lo Mein delivers. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have tender slices of beef, perfectly chewy noodles, and a savory sauce that tastes like it came straight from your favorite Chinese restaurant. The best part? You probably already have most of these ingredients in your pantry, making it a true weeknight hero meal.
The Secret to Perfect Lo Mein at Home
This recipe is all about layering flavor with minimal effort. Marinating the beef with cornstarch and shaoxing wine creates an ultra-tender texture, while the combination of dark soy, light soy, sesame oil, and sugar gives the sauce its signature savory-sweet depth. The noodles absorb all that flavor, so every bite delivers that addictive takeout taste, no soggy or bland noodles here.
Ingredients for Beef Lo Mein
Beef:
- 6 oz thinly sliced beef
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon shaoxing wine (optional but recommended)
- Pinch of salt
Vegetables:
- 1/2 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 scallions, white and green parts separated
- 6 oz lo mein noodles
Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
How to Make Beef Lo Mein
Marinate beef with cornstarch, shaoxing wine, and salt for 15 minutes.
Prep onions and separate scallion whites and greens. Mix sauce ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.
Cook noodles 1 minute before al dente, then drain and set aside.
Heat oil in a hot pan, brown beef for 2 minutes, then remove before sautéing onions and scallion whites for 2 minutes. Add noodles, beef, and sauce, tossing until evenly coated.
Stir in scallion greens, toss again, and remove from heat.
Tips and Variations
Use fresh lo mein noodles for the best texture, but spaghetti works in a pinch. Don’t skip the marinating step, it’s the key to tender beef. For extra depth, add a splash of oyster sauce or chili oil before serving.
Why This Recipe Works Anytime
This Beef Lo Mein is endlessly adaptable! You can swap the beef for chicken, shrimp, or tofu, or toss in extra veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or bok choy. If you prefer a lighter flavor, use only light soy sauce. It’s the kind of dish you can make with whatever you have on hand, and it’s always satisfying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! You can swap the beef for tofu, tempeh, or more vegetables.
What if I don’t have shaoxing wine?
You can skip it, but mirin or dry sherry works as a substitute.
Can I use other noodles?
Yes, udon, rice noodles, or even spaghetti can work. Adjust cook time as needed.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan with a splash of water.
Can I make this spicier?
Absolutely! Add chili garlic sauce (like Sriracha), sliced fresh chilies, or chili oil to taste.
More Recipes to Try
• Try my Three Cup Chicken for a sweet-savory protein pairing.
• For noodle lovers, my Pad See Ew is a must-make.
• Make my Kung Pao Noodles for another of my favorite noodle dishes.
