Panda Express Chow Mein Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This homemade Panda Express Chow Mein recipe is a game-changer for those who love the famous Chinese-American takeout dish. It's not only faster and cheaper than ordering from the restaurant, but it’s also packed with fresh, crunchy vegetables like cabbage, celery, and onions that complement the soft and bouncy chow mein noodles. Plus, the sauce adds just the right amount of flavor, and it's customizable with ingredients you can easily find in any grocery store.

Ingredients

• Fresh Chow Mein Noodles (or substitute with fresh ramen or yaki soba noodles)

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (neutral oil like avocado or canola)

• ½ onion, sliced

• 1 cup cabbage, chopped into strips

• ½ cup celery, sliced thinly

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce

• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• ¼ cup chicken stock (low-sodium)

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a small bowl, mix together the sauce ingredients (soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, sesame oil, chicken stock, and cornstarch). Set aside.

2. Bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch the chow mein noodles for 20-30 seconds until they loosen up. Drain and set aside without rinsing them.

3. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté onions, cabbage, and celery for about 1 minute, until softened.

4. Push the vegetables to the side of the pan and add the remaining oil. Add the noodles to the pan and pour in the prepared sauce.

5. Toss everything together until the noodles are fully coated with the sauce. Remove from heat and serve.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 2-3

• Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian: Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock and omit the oyster sauce, substituting it with vegetarian stir-fry sauce.

• Add protein: Include chicken, beef, shrimp, or tofu for added protein.

• Extra veggies: Feel free to add snap peas, bell peppers, or mushrooms for more texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a non-stick pan over medium heat or microwave for 2-3 minutes.

FAQs

How can I make the noodles less sticky?

Blanch the noodles for only 20-30 seconds, and don't rinse them after draining. This prevents them from sticking together.

Can I use other noodles instead of chow mein noodles?

Yes, you can substitute with fresh ramen or yaki soba noodles.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, by substituting oyster sauce with vegetarian stir-fry sauce and using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.

What type of oil should I use?

A neutral oil like avocado, sunflower, or vegetable oil works best as they have a high smoke point.

Can I freeze Panda Express chow mein?

It’s not recommended to freeze this dish as the vegetables and noodles may become mushy when reheated.

How do I add more flavor to the sauce?

You can add more soy sauce or a bit of hoisin sauce to adjust the flavor to your liking.

How can I make the noodles less oily?

Reduce the amount of oil used in the stir-frying process, or add extra vegetables to help absorb some of the oil.

Can I use low-sodium soy sauce?

Yes, low-sodium soy sauce is a great alternative to regular soy sauce.

What vegetables can I substitute for cabbage?

You can use bok choy, yu choy sum, or even bell peppers as alternatives to cabbage.

Is there a substitute for sesame oil?

You can use sesame seeds for flavor or simply omit the sesame oil, though it will change the taste slightly.

Conclusion

Making Panda Express Chow Mein at home is both simple and rewarding. With minimal ingredients and just a few steps, you can enjoy a quick, delicious dish that rivals the takeout version. Customize it to your liking with protein or extra veggies, and enjoy a healthier, cost-effective alternative to ordering out!