Shanghai Fried Noodles Recipe
Shanghai Fried Noodles is a hearty and flavorful stir-fried noodle dish featuring thick chow mein or lo mein noodles tossed with marinated beef, crisp cabbage, mushrooms, and green onions, all coated in a savory soy sauce glaze. This popular Chinese street food combines tender meat with fresh vegetables for a satisfying and aromatic meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
- Author: Mia
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Chinese
Protein
- 1 lb beef, sliced (can substitute with chicken or tofu)
Noodles
- 8 oz thick noodles (Chow Mein or Lo Mein)
Vegetables
- 2 cups cabbage, chopped (can substitute with bok choy or bell peppers)
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (shiitake or button mushrooms preferred)
- 1 cup green onions, chopped (shallots can be used if unavailable)
Marinade and Sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium for a healthier option)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (fresh is best)
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated (fresh preferred)
Other
- Oil for stir-frying (vegetable or peanut oil recommended)
- Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine the sliced beef with soy sauce, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 10 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Cook the Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the thick chow mein or lo mein noodles and cook until al dente, following package instructions (usually 5-7 minutes). Drain and rinse the noodles with cold water to stop cooking and prevent sticking.
- Stir-Fry Beef: Heat a large pan or wok over high heat and add oil. Once hot and shimmering, add the marinated beef. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the beef is browned and cooked through. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.
- Stir-Fry Vegetables: In the same pan, add more oil if needed. Add the chopped cabbage, sliced mushrooms, and chopped green onions. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet retain some crispness.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked beef to the pan with the vegetables. Add the drained noodles and a splash of soy sauce. Toss everything together and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until well combined and heated through.
- Serve: Transfer the Shanghai Fried Noodles to plates or a serving platter. Garnish with additional sliced green onions or sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- Substitute beef with chicken or tofu for variations.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce salt intake.
- Rinse noodles with cold water after cooking to prevent sticking and overcooking.
- Adjust vegetable types based on availability; bok choy or bell peppers work well in place of cabbage.
- Use a wok or large pan to ensure high heat for proper stir-frying.
- Add sesame oil at the end for extra aroma if desired.
Keywords: Shanghai fried noodles, chow mein, lo mein, stir-fry beef noodles, Chinese noodles recipe, easy stir-fry, noodle stir-fry with beef