Shrimp Lo Mein is a delicious and quick dish packed with flavors, making it a favorite among Asian cuisine lovers. This dish combines succulent shrimp, crisp vegetables, and soft noodles tossed in a rich and savory sauce.

Instead of ordering takeout, you can make this restaurant-quality meal at home with simple ingredients and minimal effort. Let’s dive into this easy Shrimp Lo Mein recipe and bring authentic flavors to your kitchen.

Ingredients for Shrimp Lo Mein

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this flavorful dish. I’ve added a few tips to make sure your Shrimp Lo Mein turns out perfect every time!

8 ounces lo mein noodles: Cook them al dente for the best texture.
12 ounces shrimp (peeled and deveined): Fresh shrimp works best, but thawed frozen shrimp is fine too.
1 tablespoon vegetable oil: For stir-frying everything to perfection.
1 teaspoon sesame oil: Adds a nutty aroma and prevents noodles from sticking.
1 cup bell peppers (thinly sliced): Use a mix of colors for a vibrant dish.
1 cup carrots (julienned): Adds a touch of sweetness and crunch.
1 cup snow peas: Their crisp texture is a must!
2 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic makes all the difference.
1/2 cup green onions (chopped): For a fresh, zesty garnish.

Lo Mein Sauce:

3 tablespoons soy sauce: The base of the savory flavor.
1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Adds depth and richness.
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce: A touch of sweetness.
1 teaspoon brown sugar: Balances the saltiness.
1 teaspoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce.
1/2 teaspoon ginger (grated): Fresh ginger gives a warm, spicy kick.
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For a hint of heat.

Note: Serves 4 generously. Adjust quantities for smaller or larger servings.

Variations to Try

Want to switch things up? Here are some fun variations:

Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free, so no changes needed!
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce.
Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms, broccoli, or baby corn for more variety.
Spicy Kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a drizzle of sriracha.

Cooking Time

Here’s how long you’ll need to make this dish:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner!

Equipment You’ll Need

Here’s what I used to make this recipe effortlessly:

Wok or Large Skillet: For even cooking and authentic stir-fry flavor.
Tongs or Spatula: To toss everything together without breaking the noodles.
Knife and Cutting Board: For prepping the veggies and shrimp.
Strainer: To drain the noodles properly before mixing.

How to Make Shrimp Lo Mein?

Making Shrimp Lo Mein is easier than you think! Let’s break it down step by step.

Steps by Step Instruction of Shrimp Lo Mein Recipe

Cook the Noodles

Start by boiling a large pot of water. Add the lo mein noodles and cook them until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain the noodles and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process. Toss them with a teaspoon of sesame oil to keep them from sticking together.

Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, ginger, and red pepper flakes. This sauce is the heart of the dish, so make sure it’s well-mixed and ready to go.

Cook the Shrimp

Heat vegetable oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the wok and set them aside.

Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same wok, add a little more oil if needed. Toss in the minced garlic, bell peppers, carrots, and snow peas. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.

Combine Everything

Return the shrimp to the wok and pour in the prepared sauce. Toss everything together to coat evenly. Add the cooked noodles and stir-fry for another 2 minutes until everything is heated through.

Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped green onions over the top for a fresh finish. Serve your Shrimp Lo Mein hot and enjoy every bite! You can also enjoy similar pasta-based meals like best blackened chicken alfredo.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

Here’s what I’ve learned from making this dish:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and veggies make a world of difference.
Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Al dente noodles hold up better in the stir-fry.
Work Quickly: Stir-frying is all about high heat and quick cooking.
Prep Everything First: Have all your ingredients ready to go before you start cooking.

How to Serve Shrimp Lo Mein?

For the best presentation, serve Shrimp Lo Mein in a large bowl or on a platter. Garnish with extra green onions or sesame seeds for a pop of color. Pair it with egg rolls, wonton soup, or a cucumber salad for a complete meal. Add a drizzle of chili oil or a splash of soy sauce on top for an extra flavor kick.

Serve with chopsticks for an authentic touch and a more immersive dining experience. You might also enjoy this chicken scampi recipe if you’re in the mood for something creamy and garlicky.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the nutrition per serving:

Calories: ~350
Protein: ~25g
Carbohydrates: ~40g
Fat: ~10g

Make Ahead and Storage

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Not recommended, as the noodles may lose their texture.
Reheating: Heat in a wok or skillet with a splash of water or soy sauce to restore moisture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This Shrimp Lo Mein is a must-try! Here’s why:

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes.
Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or adjust the spice level.
Healthier Than Takeout: Control the ingredients and sodium levels.
Budget-Friendly: A restaurant-quality meal at a fraction of the cost.
Packed with Flavor: The sauce ties everything together beautifully.

FAQs

Q: What is lo mein sauce made of?

Lo mein sauce typically includes soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, and aromatics like ginger and garlic. This combination gives the dish its signature savory, slightly sweet, and umami-rich flavor.

Q: What’s the difference between shrimp lo mein and chow mein?

The key difference lies in the noodles and preparation. Lo mein uses boiled, soft noodles that are tossed with sauce, while chow mein noodles are often fried for a crispy texture. Both are delicious but offer distinct textures and flavors.

Q: What are the main ingredients in lo mein?

The essential components of lo mein include noodles, protein (like shrimp, chicken, or tofu), vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, and snow peas), and a savory sauce that brings everything together

Q: What makes lo mein taste good?

The flavor comes from a combination of umami-rich sauces (soy, oyster, hoisin), fresh aromatics like garlic and ginger, and the balance of sweet, salty, and spicy notes. Using high heat and quick stir-frying also helps lock in flavor and texture.

Ash Tyrrell