Chinese Vegetarian Lo Mein Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide

Chinese vegetarian lo mein is a delightful, comforting dish that combines tender noodles with a medley of fresh vegetables tossed in a savory sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch, this recipe brings the flavors of traditional Chinese takeout right into your kitchen without any meat.

Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking to enjoy a lighter meal, this lo mein recipe offers a healthy, colorful, and flavorful option that everyone will love.

What makes this dish truly special is its versatility and ease of preparation. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or add tofu for extra protein.

The noodles are coated in a delicious blend of soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil, creating a harmonious balance of umami and subtle sweetness. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a restaurant-style meal at home with wholesome ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chinese vegetarian lo mein is not only incredibly tasty but also quick and simple to make. It’s a wonderful way to get a nutrient-packed meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

The combination of fresh vegetables and flavorful sauce makes it a balanced dish that pleases both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

This recipe is highly adaptable; you can swap in whatever vegetables you have on hand or prefer, making it a great way to use seasonal produce. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak extra veggies into your diet without sacrificing flavor.

The noodles are perfectly chewy, soaking up the sauce to deliver every bite bursting with flavor.

Finally, this dish reheats well, making it great for meal prep or leftovers. If you love Asian-inspired recipes, don’t forget to check out our Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for another vegetable-forward delight!

Ingredients

• 8 oz lo mein noodles (or spaghetti as a substitute)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (such as canola or peanut oil)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup bell pepper, thinly sliced (red or green)
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup snap peas, trimmed
• 3 green onions, sliced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
• 3 tbsp soy sauce (use low sodium if preferred)
• 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce (vegetarian version, optional)
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/4 cup vegetable broth or water
• Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling noodles
• Colander or strainer
• Large wok or non-stick skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Mixing bowl for sauce

Instructions

1. Cook the noodles: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the lo mein noodles and cook according to package instructions until just al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking. Set aside.
2. Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, sugar, and vegetable broth. Set aside.
3. Heat the wok: Place the wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil and swirl to coat the surface.
4. Sauté aromatics: Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the hot oil. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
5. Cook the vegetables: Add the carrots, bell pepper, broccoli, snap peas, mushrooms (if using), and half of the green onions. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
6. Add the noodles and sauce: Toss in the cooked noodles and pour the sauce over everything. Use tongs or a spatula to combine and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes. Make sure the noodles are evenly coated and heated through.
7. Finish and serve: Remove from heat. Garnish with the remaining green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For a gluten-free version, substitute the lo mein noodles with rice noodles and use tamari instead of soy sauce.

You can easily swap or add vegetables like baby corn, bok choy, or bean sprouts depending on availability and preference. Adding cubed tofu before the sauce step is a great way to boost protein.

Try using a splash of rice vinegar or a pinch of chili flakes for an extra layer of flavor. If you want a spicier kick, drizzle some Sriracha or chili garlic sauce on top before serving.

For a more authentic touch, try making your own vegetarian oyster sauce from mushrooms, or check out our Pesto Recipe Marcella Hazan for a different Asian-inspired sauce idea.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian lo mein pairs beautifully with light and fresh sides like steamed edamame or a simple cucumber salad. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside crispy spring rolls or dumplings.

If you’re in the mood for more Asian-inspired vegetarian dishes, be sure to try our Passover Zucchini Kugel Recipe, which makes an excellent side or main dish alternative.

To complete your meal, a refreshing dessert like our Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe will provide a sweet, creamy finish that complements the savory flavors perfectly.

Conclusion

Chinese vegetarian lo mein is a delicious, nutritious, and versatile dish that you can easily prepare at home. With fresh vegetables, flavorful sauce, and perfectly cooked noodles, this recipe offers a satisfying meal that everyone will appreciate.

It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or whenever you crave a comforting bowl of Asian-inspired noodles without the meat.

By customizing the veggies and seasoning, you can make this dish your own, ensuring it never gets boring. And with the ease of preparation, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again.

Don’t forget to explore other exciting recipes on our blog like the Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe or the tangy Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe for more culinary inspiration.

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