Who doesn't love a plate of crispy, savory Chinese fried noodles? This dish is a staple in Chinese cuisine, loved for its bold flavors, satisfying textures, and versatility.
Whether you enjoy it as a side or a main dish, Chinese fried noodles are a perfect option for any meal. We've come up with a simple recipe that captures all the classic elements of this beloved dish, and we can't wait to share it with you!
Why We Love Chinese Fried Noodles
Chinese fried noodles are not just delicious; they're also incredibly customizable. You can add any vegetables or proteins you have on hand, making it a great way to use up leftovers or clear out your fridge. Whether you're a vegetarian or a meat lover, these stir-fried noodles can be adapted to suit your taste preferences. Plus, they're quick and easy to make, which is always a bonus when you're craving something tasty and filling!
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Ingredients We'll Need
For the perfect Chinese fried noodles, we'll need the following ingredients:
• 8 oz (225g) of egg noodles (or your preferred type of noodle)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 cup of sliced bell pepper
• 1 cup of sliced carrots
• 1 cup of sliced mushrooms (optional)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional for extra umami)
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional for sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper (optional for a bit of heat)
• A handful of chopped green onions (for garnish)
You can easily adjust the amount of vegetables and sauce according to your taste. If you prefer a stronger soy sauce flavor, feel free to add more soy sauce or adjust the other sauces to balance it out.
Steps to Make Chinese Fried Noodles
1. Cook the Noodles:
Start by cooking the noodles according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain them and set them aside. If you want to prevent them from sticking together, rinse them with cold water and toss them with a little bit of vegetable oil.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced onions, stir-frying them for about 1-2 minutes until they're fragrant and slightly softened.
3. Add the Veggies:
Next, add the sliced bell pepper, carrots, and mushrooms (if using) to the pan. Stir-fry them for about 4-5 minutes until they're tender but still have a little crunch. You want the vegetables to maintain their color and texture, so don't overcook them.
4. Stir in the Sauces:
Once the vegetables are ready, add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, black pepper, and white pepper. Stir everything together and cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauces to coat the vegetables and create a rich, savory base.
5. Add the Noodles:
Now, it's time to add the cooked noodles to the pan. Use tongs or a spatula to toss everything together, ensuring the noodles are evenly coated in the sauce and vegetables. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, letting the noodles crisp up slightly at the bottom. You can adjust the heat and continue stir-frying until you achieve the level of crispiness you prefer.
6. Finish and Serve:
Once the noodles are well-coated and crispy to your liking, remove them from the heat. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh and colorful finish. Serve your Chinese fried noodles immediately, and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Chinese Fried Noodles
• Choose the Right Noodles: Traditional egg noodles work great for this dish, but you can use any kind of noodle you prefer, such as soba or rice noodles. Make sure to cook them al dente, as they will continue to cook when stir-fried.
• Use High Heat: Stir-frying requires high heat to get that crispy texture and smoky flavor. Make sure your pan or wok is hot before adding the ingredients.
• Customize the Veggies: Feel free to swap or add other vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or snow peas. The beauty of this dish is in its versatility!
• Don't Overcrowd the Pan: If you have a lot of ingredients, it's better to stir-fry in batches to ensure even cooking and prevent the vegetables from steaming.
Chinese fried noodles are a delightful, satisfying dish that can be easily customized to fit your tastes. With just a few simple ingredients and some quick stir-frying, we can create a meal that's both flavorful and filling. Whether you enjoy them as a side dish or a main course, these noodles will surely satisfy your cravings for something savory and satisfying. The best part? You can make them in under 30 minutes, making them the perfect solution for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. Try this recipe today, and we promise you won't be disappointed!
