Shrimp Lo Mein

Shrimp Lo Mein is a delightful dish that brings the taste of your favorite Chinese takeout right to your kitchen in less than 30 minutes. This recipe features thick, bouncy egg noodles and succulent shrimp, all enveloped in a savory, garlicky sauce. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a meal for a special occasion, Shrimp Lo Mein is versatile enough to please everyone!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This Shrimp Lo Mein recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Sauce: The combination of oyster sauce, soy sauce, and garlic creates a rich flavor that enhances the dish.
• Customizable Ingredients: You can easily swap out vegetables or proteins based on what you have on hand or to fit your preferences.
• Healthy Option: Loaded with fresh vegetables and shrimp, this dish provides a nutritious balance of protein and fiber.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Shrimp Lo Mein tastes just as good the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Shrimp Lo Mein, you’ll need some essential tools that will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wok or large sauté pan
• Medium bowl
• Pot for boiling water
• Strainer

Importance of Each Tool

• Wok or large sauté pan: High sides allow for easy tossing of ingredients while stir-frying.
• Medium bowl: Ideal for marinating shrimp evenly without mess.
• Pot for boiling water: Necessary for cooking noodles quickly and effectively.
• Strainer: Helps drain excess water from cooked shrimp and noodles efficiently.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp Marinade

• 12 ounces shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon Shaoxing rice apple vinegar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon oil (any neutral oil will do)

For the Noodles and Vegetables

• 16 ounces lo mein noodles (fresh egg noodles)
• 4 ounces napa cabbage (thinly sliced)
• ½ small yellow onion (thinly sliced)
• ½ large carrot (peeled and julienned)
• 1 rib celery (julienned or thinly sliced)
• 2 stalks green onion (cut into 1-inch pieces)

For the Sauce

• 1 tablespoon garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing rice apple vinegar (optional)
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon oil (any neutral oil)
• 3 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (regular or light sodium)
• 1½ tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce

How to Make Shrimp Lo Mein

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimps

In a medium bowl, add the shrimps, cornstarch, Shaoxing rice apple vinegar, salt, and oil. Mix well until the shrimps are evenly coated. Set aside as you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In another bowl, mix together all the ingredients for the lo mein sauce: oyster sauce, soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and sugar. Set aside until needed.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimps

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the marinated shrimps and stir immediately to separate them. Let cook until they turn pinkish-orange and curl into an O shape—about 30 seconds to 1 minute for small shrimps or 1 to 2 minutes for larger ones. Once cooked, remove using a strainer and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Noodles and Vegetables

In the same pot of boiling water, add lo mein noodles. Stir to separate them and cook according to package instructions. In the last 30 seconds of cooking, add vegetables—onion, carrot, napa cabbage, and celery. Cook until veggies are wilted. Drain everything then set aside.

Step 5: Stir-Fry Garlic

In a wok or large sauté pan over medium-high heat, add oil. Once hot, add garlic and stir-fry until fragrant—about 15 to 30 seconds.

Step 6: Combine Noodles with Vegetables

Add lo mein noodles and vegetables to the wok. Toss everything together. Drizzle Shaoxing rice apple vinegar around the pan and stir-fry for another 15 to 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 7: Add Shrimps and Sauce

Add blanched shrimps into the wok. Give prepared sauce a quick stir before adding it in as well. Stir-fry everything together for a couple of minutes until all ingredients are evenly coated with sauce.

Step 8: Finish with Sesame Oil and Green Onions

Drizzle sesame oil over the mixture before adding green onions. Stir-fry for another 15 to 30 seconds then transfer to a serving plate. Enjoy while hot!

How to Serve Shrimp Lo Mein

Shrimp lo mein is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re having it as the main course or complementing it with other flavors, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Beef and Broccoli

• This classic combo offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. The savory beef pairs well with the garlicky shrimp lo mein.

Add a Fresh Salad

• A light salad made with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance to the hearty lo mein.

Serve with Spring Rolls

• Crispy vegetable spring rolls add a crunchy element to your meal. They are perfect for dipping in sweet chili sauce or soy sauce.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Top your shrimp lo mein with chopped cilantro or basil for an aromatic finish. These herbs elevate the dish’s flavor profile.

Include Steamed Vegetables

• Steamed broccoli, bok choy, or snap peas can add extra nutrients and color to your plate while keeping the meal light and healthy.

How to Perfect Shrimp Lo Mein

To achieve the best shrimp lo mein possible, consider these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish is flavorful and satisfying.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality shrimp enhance flavor and texture.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp: Cook until just pink; overcooking can make them tough.
• Prep all ingredients beforehand: Having everything ready speeds up cooking and ensures even cooking.
• Adjust sauces according to taste: Feel free to modify soy sauce or oyster sauce levels based on your preference.
• Stir-fry quickly: Cooking on high heat for a short time helps maintain the crunch of vegetables.

Best Side Dishes for Shrimp Lo Mein

Complement your shrimp lo mein with these delicious side dishes that enhance your meal’s overall appeal.

1. Garlic Green Beans
   Sautéed green beans tossed in garlic provide a crunchy, savory addition that pairs wonderfully with noodles.

2. Vegetable Fried Rice
   A flavorful rice dish mixed with assorted veggies makes for a filling side that expands your meal options.

3. Crispy Tofu Bites
   Lightly fried tofu adds protein and a crispy texture, making it an excellent meatless pairing.

4. Egg Drop Soup
   A warm bowl of egg drop soup brings comfort and warmth, balancing out the heartiness of shrimp lo mein.

5. Sesame Cucumber Salad
   Refreshing cucumbers dressed in sesame oil offer a cool contrast that brightens up the meal.

6. Steamed Dumplings
   Tender dumplings filled with vegetables or chicken provide an irresistible bite-sized treat alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Shrimp Lo Mein is simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin your dish. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Using the wrong noodles: Always choose lo mein noodles or fresh egg noodles for the best texture. Other noodles may not hold up well in the dish.
• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so keep an eye on them. They should turn pink and curl into an O shape; overcooked shrimp can become rubbery.
• Skipping the marination: Marinating the shrimp enhances flavor and tenderness. Don’t skip this step if you want a more delicious outcome.
• Neglecting the sauce balance: Ensure you measure your sauces accurately. Too much soy sauce can overpower the dish; aim for balance.
• Not preparing ingredients beforehand: Chop vegetables and measure sauces before cooking. This makes it easier to manage cooking times without overcooking anything.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Shrimp Lo Mein

• Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Shrimp Lo Mein

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread lo mein on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat, add lo mein, and stir-fry for about 5 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here’s where I answer some common questions about making Shrimp Lo Mein.

Can I use other proteins instead of shrimp?

Yes! You can easily substitute shrimp with chicken, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

How do I customize my Shrimp Lo Mein?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas. Adjust sauces according to your taste preferences as well.

What type of sauce should I use for Shrimp Lo Mein?

A mix of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar creates a balanced and flavorful sauce. You can adjust these ingredients based on dietary needs or preferences.

Is Shrimp Lo Mein healthy?

When made with fresh vegetables and controlled portions of sauces, Shrimp Lo Mein can be a nutritious meal option packed with protein and vitamins.

How long does it take to make Shrimp Lo Mein?

This dish takes approximately 25 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners.

Final Thoughts

Shrimp Lo Mein is an incredibly versatile dish that captures the essence of Chinese takeout right at home. With its savory flavors and customizable ingredients, it’s perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try, and don’t hesitate to personalize it with your favorite veggies or proteins!