Beef Lo Mein is a flavorful and beloved dish that epitomizes the essence of Chinese-American cuisine. With its harmonious blend of tender beef, fresh vegetables, and delectable noodles, this recipe showcases the art of wok cooking and the balance of flavors that define Asian culinary traditions. As we embark on this culinary journey, we’ll explore the historical roots of Chinese cuisine, the origins of Lo Mein, and guide you through the step-by-step process of crafting the savory and satisfying Beef Lo Mein.

Chinese cuisine boasts a rich history that spans millennia and is steeped in cultural significance. The foundations of this cuisine are built upon the principles of harmony, balance, and the artful use of ingredients. The interplay of flavors, textures, and colors is key to the Chinese culinary experience, resulting in dishes that delight the senses and nourish the body.

Lo Mein, meaning “stirred noodles,” is a beloved component of Chinese cuisine that traces its origins back to the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE). Noodle dishes were created to provide sustenance to travelers and soldiers, and over time, they evolved to include various ingredients and regional variations. In the Lo Mein dish, fresh noodles are stir-fried with an array of ingredients, including meats, vegetables, and flavorful sauces.

SERVES: 4

PREP TIME: 5 MINUTES

COOKING TIME: 12 MINUTES

INGREDIENTS

FOR THE BEEF:

• 1/2 pound flank steak, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon vegetable oil

FOR THE NOODLES:

• 8 ounces fresh Lo Mein noodles or spaghetti
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

FOR THE VEGETABLE STIR FRY:

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup snow peas or snap peas
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

FOR THE SAUCE:

• 3 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/4 cup chicken or beef broth

OPTIONAL GARNISH:

• Sliced green onions
• Sesame seeds

INSTRUCTIONS 

MARINATING THE BEEF:

1. In a bowl, combine the thinly sliced flank steak, soy sauce, cornstarch, sesame oil, and vegetable oil. Mix well and let the beef marinate for about 15-20 minutes.

COOKING THE NOODLES:

1. If using fresh Lo Mein noodles, blanch them in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes until they’re slightly tender. Drain and set aside. If using spaghetti, cook according to package instructions. Rinse the cooked noodles under cold water to prevent sticking.
2. Toss the cooked noodles with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to prevent them from sticking together. Set aside.

STIR FRYING THE VEGETABLES:

1. Heat a wok or a large skillet over high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and allow it to heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for a few seconds until fragrant. Add the sliced bell pepper, julienned carrot, broccoli florets, and snow peas. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

COOKING THE BEEF:

1. Push the vegetables to the sides of the wok and add the marinated beef to the center. Spread the beef in a single layer and let it sear for about 1-2 minutes on each side until it’s cooked to your preferred doneness. Once cooked, mix the beef with the vegetables.

CREATING THE SAUCE:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the oyster sauce, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, and chicken or beef broth. This mixture forms the savory sauce that ties the dish together.

COMBINING NOODLES AND SAUCE:

1. Add the cooked and oiled noodles to the wok, tossing them with the stir-fried beef and vegetables.
2. Pour the prepared sauce over the noodle mixture. Toss everything together to ensure the noodles are coated in the flavorful sauce.

SERVING BEEF LO MEIN:

1. Transfer the Beef Lo Mein to a serving dish.
2. Sprinkle sliced green onions and sesame seeds over the dish for an attractive presentation and added flavor.

CONCLUSION:

• Beef Lo Mein embodies the legacy of Chinese culinary artistry, showcasing the harmony of flavors and textures that make this cuisine so beloved worldwide. With every forkful of tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and savory noodles, you’re partaking in a culinary journey that stretches back through time. This recipe invites you to embrace the tradition of creating and savoring dishes that encapsulate the essence of Chinese cuisine, while allowing you to put your own flavorful twist on a timeless classic.