Craving a flavorful, healthy, and surprisingly quick dinner? Look no further! This shrimp chow mein recipe is your answer. It's packed with fresh vegetables, succulent shrimp, and perfectly cooked noodles, all tossed in a savory sauce that's irresistible. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this easy recipe will have you whipping up a delicious homemade meal in under 30 minutes. It's the perfect healthy meal for a busy weeknight and a fantastic option for quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz dried chow mein noodles
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce (optional, but adds great depth of flavor)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
- Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Noodles
Cook the chow mein noodles according to package directions. Once cooked, rinse with cold water to prevent sticking and set aside.
Step 2: Stir-fry the Shrimp
Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the wok and set aside.
Step 3: Saute the Vegetables
Add the bell peppers and onion to the wok and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until slightly softened. Add the garlic, broccoli, and carrots and continue to stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), rice vinegar, brown sugar, cornstarch, and water until smooth.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer
Return the shrimp to the wok. Pour the sauce over the vegetables and shrimp, and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
Step 6: Add Noodles and Serve
Add the cooked chow mein noodles to the wok and toss gently to coat them in the sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions, if desired.
Cooking Tips for the Best Shrimp Chow Mein:
- For extra flavor, marinate the shrimp in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for 15-20 minutes before cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the wok when stir-frying the shrimp and vegetables. Work in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to your liking, such as mushrooms, snow peas, or bean sprouts.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Chicken Chow Mein: Substitute cooked chicken for the shrimp.
- Vegetarian Chow Mein: Omit the shrimp and add extra vegetables like tofu or mushrooms.
- Spicy Chow Mein: Add some chili garlic sauce or sriracha to the sauce for an extra kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a delicious and healthy meal. Nutritional information varies based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. For a precise analysis, use a nutrition calculator with the exact ingredients and quantities used.
This easy shrimp chow mein recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes that are quick to prepare. It's a wonderful addition to your collection of best recipes and a great option for healthy meals and easy recipes. Enjoy!