Chow Mein Vegetarian Recipe Indian Style Made Easy

Chow Mein is a beloved Indo-Chinese dish that perfectly blends the flavors of crunchy stir-fried vegetables and soft noodles in a savory sauce. For those who prefer a vegetarian twist with an Indian touch, this chow mein recipe is a delightful fusion that brings together the best of both worlds.

Packed with colorful vegetables and aromatic spices, this dish is not only wholesome but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful party dish, this vegetarian chow mein will not disappoint.

It’s easy to make, customizable, and sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

In this recipe, we’ll use simple Indian pantry staples along with fresh vegetables to create a vibrant and tasty chow mein that’s healthy and delicious. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover why you’ll love making this vegetarian chow mein with an Indian twist!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian chow mein recipe is a perfect blend of Indian flavors and Chinese cooking techniques. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy days or last-minute meals.

The dish uses fresh vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and cabbage, which provide crunch and nutrition. The subtle use of Indian spices like cumin and garam masala adds a unique twist without overpowering the authentic chow mein taste.

Moreover, it’s a versatile recipe — you can easily swap vegetables or tweak the spice level to suit your preferences. It’s also a great way to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet without sacrificing flavor.

Plus, this chow mein is a one-pan wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal!

Ingredients

• 200 grams chow mein noodles (or any thin eggless noodles)
• 1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or sesame oil works well)
• 1 medium onion, finely sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 medium carrot, julienned
• 1 cup cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1 medium capsicum (bell pepper), thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup green beans, chopped into 1-inch pieces
• 2 green chilies, finely chopped (optional for heat)
• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup
• 1 teaspoon chili sauce (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper powder
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves, chopped for garnish
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling noodles
• Colander or sieve
• Large wok or deep frying pan
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Knife and chopping board
• Mixing bowls

Instructions

1. Boil the noodles: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt and a teaspoon of oil to prevent noodles from sticking. Add the chow mein noodles and cook according to package instructions until just tender (al dente). Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
2. Prepare the vegetables: Wash and slice all vegetables as mentioned in the ingredients. This ensures quick and even cooking.
3. Heat the wok: Place a large wok or frying pan on medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of oil and let it heat up.
4. Temper the spices: Add 1 teaspoon cumin seeds to the hot oil and let them sizzle for a few seconds until aromatic.
5. Sauté aromatics: Add the finely sliced onions, minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped green chilies (if using). Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until onions turn translucent.
6. Add vegetables: Toss in the julienned carrots, sliced capsicum, chopped green beans, and thinly sliced cabbage. Stir-fry on high heat for 4-5 minutes until veggies are cooked but still crunchy.
7. Spice it up: Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon garam masala, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper powder, and salt to taste. Mix well to coat the vegetables evenly.
8. Add sauces: Lower the heat slightly and add 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup, and 1 teaspoon chili sauce if you like it spicy. Stir everything together for 2 minutes, allowing the sauces to caramelize slightly and coat the veggies.
9. Combine noodles and veggies: Add the cooked noodles into the wok. Using tongs or a spatula, toss gently but thoroughly to mix the noodles with the vegetables and sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring continuously to prevent sticking.
10. Final touches: Turn off the heat. Garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves and sprinkle sesame seeds if using. Give it one last toss and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

Tip: To prevent the noodles from clumping, rinse them under cold water immediately after boiling. This also cools them down, making them easier to stir-fry.

Variation: Add tofu or paneer cubes for extra protein. Simply pan-fry them until golden and toss in at the end.

Substitution: Use whole wheat noodles or rice noodles for gluten-free options.

Flavor boost: Drizzle a teaspoon of sesame oil at the end for a nutty aroma.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian chow mein pairs wonderfully with a side of Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for a wholesome meal. For a protein-rich accompaniment, try serving it alongside the Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe adapted to vegetarian ingredients.

If you love a tangy twist, a small bowl of Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe can add a punch of flavor to your chow mein experience.

Enjoy your chow mein with a refreshing glass of iced green tea or a simple cucumber raita to balance the spices. For a light meal, serve it on its own with a sprinkle of toasted nuts for extra crunch.

Conclusion

This Indian-style vegetarian chow mein is a delightful dish that combines the best of both Indian and Chinese cuisines. It’s flavorful, nutritious, and simple enough to whip up any day of the week.

The use of fresh vegetables and aromatic spices makes this chow mein not only delicious but also a healthy choice for vegetarians and those looking to add more plant-based meals to their diet.

By following the easy steps outlined above, you can enjoy a restaurant-style chow mein at home without any hassle. Whether served as a main meal or a side dish, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.

Don’t forget to experiment with different vegetables and spice levels to find your perfect balance. Happy cooking!

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