There is something incredibly satisfying about a stir-fried noodle dish packed with crunchy veggies, silky tofu, and a luscious sauce that ties it all together. This Vegetarian Chow Mein Recipe is one of my all-time favorites when I crave something quick, flavorful, and just a little bit special. With fresh chow mein noodles tossed with a colorful mix of cabbage, carrots, scallions, and bean sprouts, every bite bursts with texture and flavor. The combination of savory soy sauce, hoisin, and a hint of chili garlic sauce creates a delightful harmony that’ll make you want seconds, no doubt. Whether you’re a longtime vegetarian or just testing out meatless meals, this recipe is a winner for both convenience and taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Even though this dish is packed with layers of flavor and texture, the ingredient list is refreshingly simple and approachable. Each component plays a crucial role in bringing depth, color, and that perfect balance of freshness and savoriness to your Vegetarian Chow Mein Recipe.
- Fresh chow mein noodles (6 oz / 180 g): The heart of the dish, these noodles are tender yet have a perfect chew that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- Oil (2 tbsp): For stir-frying and bringing everything together with a subtle richness.
- Garlic cloves, minced (2): Adds that pungent, aromatic foundation that wakes up all the other flavors.
- Shredded Chinese cabbage (2 cups): Provides crunch and a mild sweetness, giving the dish extra volume and freshness.
- Carrot, julienned (1/2 cup): A splash of bright color and gentle earthiness that contrasts nicely with the cabbage.
- Scallion or shallot stems, cut into 2″/4cm pieces (2): A fragrant addition that adds subtle onion notes and texture.
- Bean sprouts (1 cup): Crisp and juicy, these sprouts bring a fresh bite that keeps the dish lively.
- Firm tofu, sliced (5 oz / 150 g): The protein powerhouse here, tofu soaks up the marinade and becomes delectably caramelized.
- Soy sauce (total 2 tbsp): A salty umami base essential for that authentic chow mein flavor.
- Chinese cooking wine (1 tbsp): Adds subtle complexity and depth to the marinade.
- Hoisin sauce (1/2 tbsp): Sweet and savory, it enhances the overall sweetness with a hint of tang.
- Chili garlic sauce or sriracha (1/2 tbsp, optional): For a mild kick that elevates the dish without overwhelming it.
- Sugar (2 tsp): Balances the savory and spicy elements with a touch of sweetness.
- Sesame oil (1/2 tsp): Adds a toasted nuttiness that finishes the dish perfectly.
- Water (1/4 cup): Helps the sauce achieve its silky, glide-across-the-noodles texture.
- White pepper (to taste): A subtle heat with floral notes that rounds out the seasoning.
How to Make Vegetarian Chow Mein Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the noodles
Start by soaking your fresh chow mein noodles in boiling water following the package instructions. This step softens the noodles just enough so they’re perfectly tender without becoming mushy. Drain them well to avoid any sogginess later on.
Step 2: Marinate the tofu
While the noodles are soaking, combine the sliced firm tofu with 1/2 tablespoon soy sauce and 1 tablespoon Chinese cooking wine. Set this mixture aside for about five minutes to let the tofu soak in those lovely flavors, which will come through after cooking.
Step 3: Mix the sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce, 1/2 tablespoon hoisin sauce, 1/2 tablespoon chili garlic sauce (if using), 2 teaspoons sugar, 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil, and 1/4 cup water. This sauce is the magic behind the vegetarian chow mein recipe’s rich, savory-sweet taste.
Step 4: Stir-fry garlic
Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Throw in the minced garlic and stir-fry for just about 10 seconds until fragrant. This quick step releases the garlic’s aroma without letting it burn.
Step 5: Cook the tofu
Add the marinated tofu into the wok and stir-fry gently until it starts caramelizing and gains a beautiful golden color, about 1 minute. Be careful while stirring to keep the tofu slices intact. This step adds a lovely texture and depth to the dish.
Step 6: Add the vegetables
Next, toss in the shredded Chinese cabbage and julienned carrot. Stir-fry everything until the cabbage starts to wilt but still retains a slight crunch. Fresh veggies create a lovely contrast within each bite of this Vegetarian Chow Mein Recipe.
Step 7: Combine noodles and sauce
Now add your drained noodles, chopped scallions, and bean sprouts directly into the wok. Pour in the sauce mixture, then stir-fry everything together just until the noodles are warmed through and the sauce has evenly coated every strand. This should take about a minute—don’t overcook, as you want the bean sprouts to stay crisp.
Step 8: Serve immediately
Transfer your vibrant chow mein onto plates and enjoy it right away for the best texture and flavor experience. This quick cooking process keeps everything fresh and lively, just as a chow mein should be.
How to Serve Vegetarian Chow Mein Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds or freshly chopped cilantro over the top for an extra burst of flavor and a visually inviting touch. A wedge of lime on the side adds a zesty brightness if you want to brighten the dish even more.
Side Dishes
Vegetarian chow mein pairs beautifully with light sides like steamed edamame, crispy spring rolls, or a simple cucumber salad dressed with rice vinegar and sesame oil. These sides complement the main dish without overpowering it.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun change, serve the chow mein in individual lettuce cups or stuff it into bell pepper halves as edible bowls. Offering a variety of chili sauces on the side lets everyone tailor the heat to their taste, making this vegetarian chow mein recipe an interactive and fun meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover vegetarian chow mein in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The noodles tend to soak up the sauce a bit more over time, so give it a quick stir and maybe a splash of water before reheating.
Freezing
While freezing is possible, the texture of the fresh veggies, especially the bean sprouts and cabbage, may change and become a bit softer. If you want to freeze, separate the noodles from the vegetables before freezing for better results and reheat gently.
Reheating
To reheat, a quick toss in a hot wok or skillet works best to revive the original stir-fry texture. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short intervals, stirring in between to warm evenly. Adding a tiny splash of water or soy sauce can help keep it moist.
FAQs
Can I use dried noodles instead of fresh chow mein noodles?
Yes, you can substitute dried noodles, but you’ll need to cook them according to package instructions before stir-frying. Fresh noodles provide the best texture and soak up the sauce more evenly.
Is there a substitute for Chinese cooking wine?
If you don’t have Chinese cooking wine on hand, dry sherry or a splash of rice vinegar can be used as alternatives, though the flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Can I add other vegetables to this Vegetarian Chow Mein Recipe?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, snap peas, mushrooms, or baby corn would all be great additions. Just adjust the cooking time to keep the veggies crisp and vibrant.
How spicy is the dish with the chili garlic sauce?
The chili garlic sauce adds a mild to medium heat that enhances the flavors without overpowering them. You can adjust the amount based on your spice preference or leave it out altogether.
Is this dish suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, this Vegetarian Chow Mein Recipe is naturally vegan as long as you use vegan-friendly hoisin sauce and avoid any animal-based additives in the noodles or sauces.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Vegetarian Chow Mein Recipe enough if you’re looking for a quick, delicious meal filled with fresh vegetables and satisfying noodles. It’s a perfect blend of textures, flavors, and colors that comes together in under 20 minutes, making it a fantastic weeknight dinner or anytime treat. Give it a try and see how this wonderful dish can become a new favorite in your recipe rotation!
Print
Vegetarian Chow Mein Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Vegetarian Chow Mein recipe is a quick and delicious take on a classic Chinese stir-fried noodle dish. Featuring fresh chow mein noodles, crisp vegetables, and firm tofu, this meal is tossed in a flavorful sauce made from soy sauce, Chinese cooking wine, hoisin, and a touch of spice. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner with a balance of textures and savory flavors.
Ingredients
Noodles
- 6 oz / 180 g fresh chow mein noodles
Vegetables and Tofu
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups shredded Chinese cabbage
- 1/2 cup carrot, julienned
- 2 scallion/shallot stems, cut into 2″ / 4cm pieces
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 5 oz / 150 g firm tofu, sliced
Sauces and Seasonings
- 2 tbsp oil
- 1/2 tbsp soy sauce (for marinade)
- 1 tbsp Chinese cooking wine
- 1/2 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 1/2 tbsp soy sauce (for sauce)
- 1/2 tbsp chilli garlic sauce or sriracha (optional)
- 2 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp sesame oil
- 1/4 cup water
- White pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Noodles: Cook the fresh chow mein noodles according to package instructions, typically by soaking them in boiling water until tender. Drain and set aside.
- Marinate Tofu: In a bowl, combine the sliced firm tofu with 1/2 tablespoon soy sauce and Chinese cooking wine. Let it marinate for 5 minutes to absorb flavors.
- Mix Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the hoisin sauce, 1 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce, chilli garlic sauce or sriracha (if using), sugar, sesame oil, and water. Stir well to form the stir-fry sauce.
- Heat Oil and Garlic: Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a wok over high heat. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for about 10 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook Tofu: Add the marinated tofu to the wok and stir-fry gently for about 1 minute until it starts to caramelize. Stir carefully to keep tofu slices intact.
- Stir-fry Vegetables: Add shredded cabbage and julienned carrot to the wok. Stir-fry quickly until the cabbage begins to wilt but still retains some crunch.
- Add Noodles and Other Ingredients: Add the cooked noodles, scallions, bean sprouts, and prepared sauce to the wok. Stir-fry everything together for about 1 minute until noodles are heated through and the sauce evenly coats all ingredients. Ensure the bean sprouts remain crisp rather than wilted.
- Serve Immediately: Transfer the Vegetarian Chow Mein to serving plates and enjoy hot for the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use fresh chow mein noodles for the best texture; dried noodles can be substituted but may require different cooking times.
- Adjust the amount of chilli garlic sauce or sriracha to control the spiciness of the dish.
- Be gentle when stir-frying tofu to avoid breaking the pieces apart.
- Bean sprouts should be added last and cooked briefly to maintain their crispness.
- For extra protein, you can add edamame or other favorite vegetables.
