Q1: Can I make this Panda Express Chow Mein vegetarian or vegan?

Yes! Simply replace the oyster sauce with a vegetarian stir-fry sauce and use water or vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. Omit sesame oil if allergic or replace with a splash of sesame seeds for a similar flavor.

Q2: What noodles work best for this Panda Express Chow Mein?

Fresh chow mein noodles are ideal and can be found in the refrigerated section of Asian grocery stores. If unavailable, you can substitute with fresh yaki soba or fresh (not instant) ramen noodles.

Q3: How do I prevent the noodles from becoming soggy?

Blanch the noodles only for 20–30 seconds and avoid over-stirring them in the pan. Make sure your pan is hot enough to stir-fry quickly without steaming the ingredients.

Panda Express Chow Mein - Superb Recipe

Description

A quick and easy Panda Express Chow Mein made with fresh noodles, cabbage, celery, and a savory sauce—perfect for beginner cooks.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb fresh chow mein noodles
2 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
1 cup celery, sliced
1 small onion, sliced
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 tablespoons regular soy sauce
1/2 tablespoon dark soy sauce
2 tablespoons oyster sauce (or vegetarian stir-fry sauce)
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/4 cup low-sodium chicken stock or cold water
1/2 tablespoon cornstarch

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Instructions

In a small bowl, mix soy sauces, oyster sauce, sesame oil, garlic, chicken stock, and cornstarch. Set aside.
Boil water in a large pan and blanch noodles for 20–30 seconds until loosened. Drain and set aside without rinsing.
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Stir-fry onions, cabbage, and celery for about 1 minute until slightly softened.
Push vegetables to the side of the pan. Add the remaining oil, then noodles and the prepared sauce.
Toss everything together until noodles are coated and heated through. Remove from heat and serve immediately.

Notes

Prep all ingredients before cooking, as the stir-fry process is fast.
Do not overcook the noodles or they will become soggy.
Vegetables can be swapped based on preference—try bok choy, bell peppers, or snap peas.
Use fresh, refrigerated noodles for the best texture.
Reheat leftovers in a pan for the best flavor and texture.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Stir-Fry
Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 478
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 1632mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 87g
Fiber: 8g
Protein: 19g
Cholesterol: 0.5mg