Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

Chewy chow mein noodles stir fried in a savory sauce with crunchy cabbage, celery, and onions make this Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein a delightful dish for any occasion. Perfect as a side dish or a quick meal, this recipe is not only simple but also incredibly flavorful. With just one pan and minimal ingredients, you can whip up a delicious alternative to takeout in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe is ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: Cook everything in one pan for easy cleanup—less mess means more time to enjoy your meal!
• Budget-Friendly: Save money by making this delicious dish at home instead of ordering takeout.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or protein for a personalized touch.
• Flavorful Sauce: The combination of soy sauces and sesame oil creates a rich flavor that elevates the simple ingredients.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools for an efficient cooking experience. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pan or wok
• Colander
• Small bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pan or wok: Provides enough space to stir-fry all the ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
• Colander: Helps to easily strain the noodles without losing any in the process.
• Small bowl: Perfect for mixing the sauce ingredients before adding them to the pan.

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Ingredients

To make this Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein, you’ll need the following:

Noodles

• 1 lb chow mein noodles (fresh kind)

Vegetables

• 2 cups cabbage (thinly sliced)
• 1 cup celery (sliced)
• 1 small onion (sliced)

Oils and Sauces

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
• 2 tbsp regular soy sauce
• 1/2 tbsp dark soy sauce
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce (or vegetarian stir fry sauce)
• 1 tbsp sesame oil

Seasonings and Stock

• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1/4 cup chicken stock (low-sodium, or cold water)
• 1/2 tbsp cornstarch (or potato starch)

How to Make Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine all the noodle sauce ingredients as listed above and set aside.

Step 2: Blanch Noodles

Bring a large pan filled halfway with water to boil on medium-high heat. Blanch chow mein noodles for 20-30 seconds or until they are loosened.

Step 3: Strain Noodles

Strain the noodles in a colander and set aside. Do not rinse off with water; this will help maintain their flavor.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in the same large pan. Fry onions, cabbage, and celery until softened, about 1 minute.

Step 5: Combine Noodles and Sauce

Push the veggies to one side of the pan. Add remaining oil into the empty space, then add noodles along with the prepared sauce.

Step 6: Toss Together

Toss everything together until noodles are well coated in sauce. Remove from heat and enjoy your delicious homemade chow mein!

How to Serve Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

Serving your Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein can elevate the dining experience, making it more enjoyable for everyone. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy this dish.

With Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for a burst of flavor and color.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions add a nice crunch and enhance the dish visually.

As a Main Course

• Protein Addition: Add cooked chicken, beef, or tofu for a heartier meal that complements the chow mein’s flavors.
• Vegetable Medley: Serve with steamed broccoli or snap peas for added nutrition and texture.

In a Bowl

• Bowl Style: Create a cozy bowl presentation with chow mein at the bottom and veggies layered on top.
• Garnish with Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of sesame seeds can add a nutty flavor and visual appeal.

With Dipping Sauces

• Soy Sauce: Offer soy sauce on the side for those who like an extra salty kick.
• Chili Oil: Provide chili oil for those who enjoy a spicy touch to their meal.

How to Perfect Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

Perfecting your Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein can make all the difference in taste and presentation. Here are some essential tips to ensure your dish turns out great every time.

• Use Fresh Noodles: Fresh chow mein noodles provide the best texture. Look for them at your local Asian grocery store.
• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Have all your vegetables sliced and sauces mixed before starting to cook for a smoother cooking process.
• High Heat Cooking: Stir-fry on high heat to achieve that signature wok-fried flavor and keep the veggies crisp.
• Don’t Overcook Vegetables: Quick cooking ensures they remain crunchy and vibrant in color.
• Adjust Sauce Amounts: Feel free to tweak soy sauce or oyster sauce quantities according to your taste preference.
• Add Nuts for Crunch: Toss in some chopped peanuts or cashews before serving for an extra layer of texture.

Best Side Dishes for Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

Pairing side dishes with your Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein can create a balanced meal that delights everyone at the table. Here are some excellent options:

1. Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crisp rolls filled with fresh vegetables make a perfect appetizer or side dish.
2. Edamame Beans: Lightly salted edamame adds protein and is fun to eat; just pop them out of their pods!
3. Chinese Chicken Salad: A refreshing salad with shredded chicken, crunchy veggies, and sesame dressing complements chow mein beautifully.
4. Steamed Dumplings: These soft dumplings filled with vegetables or meat pair well, adding variety to your meal.
5. Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides a comforting contrast to the savory chow mein.
6. Fried Rice: A small serving of fried rice can enhance the meal’s flavor profile while keeping it cohesive and filling.
7. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar offers a refreshing palate cleanser alongside the rich noodles.
8. Tofu Skewers: Grilled marinated tofu skewers add protein while enhancing the Asian-inspired theme of your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein can be a breeze, but some common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are the key pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using dry noodles: Fresh chow mein noodles provide the best texture. Opt for fresh over dried to avoid a chewy, unpleasant dish.
• Skipping the blanching step: Blanching the noodles helps loosen them up and ensures they stir-fry evenly. Don’t skip this step to achieve that perfect consistency.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking the veggies too long can make them mushy. Stir-fry just until softened for a nice crunch and vibrant color.
• Not measuring sauces accurately: Using too much or too little sauce can alter the flavor balance. Measure carefully for consistent taste every time.
• Ignoring cooking order: Adding ingredients in the wrong order can lead to uneven cooking. Follow the steps closely for even flavor distribution.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Best used within 1-2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 15 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth in a pan and reheat over medium heat, stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein.

Can I use other types of noodles?

You can substitute with other Asian noodles like lo mein or udon, but cooking times may vary.

What can I add for protein?

For added protein, consider adding chicken, beef, or tofu. Cook them before adding the veggies.

How spicy is this recipe?

This recipe is not spicy as written; however, you can add red pepper flakes for heat if desired.

How do I customize my chow mein?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or bean sprouts for more variety.

Final Thoughts

This Easy 15-min. Panda Express Chow Mein is not only quick and delicious but also versatile! You can easily customize it by adding different proteins or vegetables. Give it a try today and enjoy a homemade version of your favorite takeout!