Craving a quick, delicious, and wholesome meal that satisfies your taste buds and aligns perfectly with a vegan lifestyle? Look no further than this vibrant Vegan Chow Mein Noodles recipe.
Packed with fresh vegetables, tender noodles, and a savory sauce, this dish is a celebration of flavors and textures that will make you forget this is a plant-based meal. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or simply exploring meatless options, this recipe is straightforward to prepare, nutritious, and endlessly customizable.
With noodles stir-fried to perfection and coated in a flavorful sauce, every bite bursts with umami goodness and the satisfying crunch of fresh veggies.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or impressing friends who appreciate Asian-inspired cuisine. Plus, it’s gluten-free adaptable and oil-conscious, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
Dive into this bowl of savory, colorful chow mein noodles and enjoy a wholesome, comforting meal that’s as beautiful as it is delicious!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Our vegan chow mein noodles recipe brings together the best of texture and taste without any animal products. Here’s why it deserves a permanent spot in your recipe rotation:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy schedules.
- Nutritious: Loaded with colorful vegetables and plant-based protein options like tofu or tempeh.
- Customizable: Swap out veggies or noodles to suit your preferences or pantry staples.
- Flavorful Sauce: A well-balanced, savory sauce with a hint of sweetness and umami.
- Vegan and Allergy-Friendly: Easily adaptable to gluten-free and soy-free diets.
Ingredients
- 200g chow mein noodles (or any thin wheat noodles)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (such as canola or avocado oil)
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup snap peas, trimmed
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
- 150g firm tofu, cubed (optional for extra protein)
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 tsp maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
Equipment
- Large pot (for boiling noodles)
- Large wok or skillet
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Colander or strainer
Instructions
- Cook the noodles: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the chow mein noodles and cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-4 minutes until just tender. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Set aside.
- Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, toasted sesame oil, maple syrup, and black pepper. Set this savory sauce aside.
- Cook the tofu (optional): Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in the wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed tofu and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove tofu from the wok and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same wok, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add vegetables: Toss in the shredded cabbage, carrot, bell pepper, and snap peas. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until vegetables are tender but still crisp.
- Add noodles and sauce: Return the tofu to the wok (if using). Add the cooked noodles and pour the sauce over everything. Toss well to combine and heat through for 2-3 minutes.
- Finish with green onions: Stir in sliced green onions and remove the wok from heat.
- Serve: Transfer chow mein noodles to serving plates. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.
Tips & Variations
“For a gluten-free version, substitute rice noodles and tamari for soy sauce. Feel free to swap tofu with tempeh or seitan for different textures and flavors.”
- Vegetable swaps: Use broccoli florets, mushrooms, baby corn, or bok choy for variety.
- Protein options: Try edamame, chickpeas, or vegan meat substitutes instead of tofu.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for heat.
- Make it nutty: Toss in some crushed peanuts or cashews for added crunch.
- Oil-free option: Use vegetable broth instead of oil to stir-fry the veggies.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (Serves 2) |
---|---|
Calories | 350 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 55g |
Protein | 15g |
Fat | 9g |
Fiber | 6g |
Sodium | 750mg |
Serving Suggestions
This vegan chow mein noodles dish pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh spring rolls or a crunchy Asian slaw for a complete meal. For a heartier feast, serve alongside steamed dumplings or a bowl of hot and sour soup.
If you want to explore more flavorful dishes, be sure to check out my Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for a comforting vegetable side, or try the Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe to add a tangy kick to your meals.
For something sweet to finish, the Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe never disappoints!
Conclusion
Vegan chow mein noodles are a fantastic way to enjoy a classic Asian-inspired dish without compromising on flavor or nutrition. This recipe is simple, quick, and adaptable, making it ideal for anyone looking to add more plant-based meals to their weekly menu.
The combination of fresh veggies, satisfying noodles, and a luscious sauce creates a bowl full of comfort and vibrant taste.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this chow mein recipe is sure to impress. Plus, it’s a wonderful gateway to exploring more vegan cooking adventures.
Remember, great cooking is all about creativity and enjoyment, so don’t hesitate to tweak the ingredients and make this recipe your own. Happy cooking!
📖 Recipe Card: Chow Mein Noodles Recipe Vegan
Description: A quick and flavorful vegan chow mein packed with fresh vegetables and savory sauce. Perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT30M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 200g chow mein noodles
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1 cup julienned carrots
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Cook noodles according to package instructions, drain and set aside.
- Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add garlic and ginger, sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add carrots, bell peppers, mushrooms, and cabbage; stir-fry for 5-7 minutes.
- Mix in soy sauce and hoisin sauce, cook for 2 minutes.
- Add cooked noodles and green onions, toss well to combine.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 8 g | Fat: 8 g | Carbs: 52 g
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