Best Shrimp Lo Mein Recipe
Shrimp lo mein is a classic takeout favourite that can easily be made at home with fresh ingredients and bold flavours. This dish combines tender noodles, juicy shrimp, and crisp vegetables tossed in a savoury sauce that perfectly balances sweet and salty notes. Making it at home not only saves money but also allows you to control the ingredients for a fresher and healthier version.
Cooking shrimp lo mein in your own kitchen means you can enjoy restaurant quality taste in just minutes. The recipe is simple, quick, and versatile, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or when you are craving something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few pantry staples and fresh shrimp, you can create a dish that rivals your favorite takeout spot.
Why You Need This Recipe
Homemade shrimp lo mein is faster and healthier than ordering takeout. You know exactly what goes into your meal, from the type of oil used to the amount of vegetables included. This gives you the chance to enjoy a wholesome and flavorful dish without added preservatives or excess sodium.
It is also a crowd pleasing recipe that can be customized to your taste. You can add extra vegetables, adjust the level of spice, or even swap the shrimp for chicken or tofu. Once you try this version, it will likely become a staple in your weekly dinner rotation.
Ingredients
This shrimp lo mein recipe is simple to put together using fresh and flavorful ingredients. Below is a breakdown of what you need along with calorie counts per serving:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories |
|---|---|---|
| Lo mein noodles | 8 oz | 280 |
| Shrimp, peeled & deveined | 1 lb | 320 |
| Soy sauce | 3 tbsp | 30 |
| Oyster sauce | 2 tbsp | 40 |
| Sesame oil | 1 tbsp | 120 |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 3 cloves | 15 |
| Ginger, grated | 1 tsp | 5 |
| Bell pepper, sliced | 1 medium | 25 |
| Carrot, julienned | 1 medium | 25 |
| Green onions, chopped | 3 stalks | 15 |
| Cabbage, shredded | 1 cup | 22 |
Each serving comes to about 320 to 350 calories, making it a balanced and satisfying meal.
How to Prepare
Begin by cooking the lo mein noodles according to package instructions, then drain and set aside. In a large skillet or wok, heat sesame oil and saute garlic and ginger until fragrant. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and tender, then remove them from the pan.
In the same skillet, add the bell pepper, carrot, and cabbage, stirring until slightly tender but still crisp. Return the shrimp to the pan along with the noodles, soy sauce, and oyster sauce. Toss everything together until the noodles are fully coated and heated through. Finish with a sprinkle of green onions before serving hot.
Pro Tips
For extra depth of flavor, use a mix of light and dark soy sauce. This small change adds richness and makes the dish taste even more authentic. If you prefer a spicier version, add a drizzle of chili oil or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.
Do not overcook the shrimp as they can become rubbery. Cooking them quickly at high heat ensures they stay juicy and tender. Preparing all your ingredients before you start cooking also helps the process go smoothly since lo mein comes together fast.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
Shrimp lo mein pairs wonderfully with a side of spring rolls or steamed dumplings for a complete Asian inspired meal. You can also serve it with a light cucumber salad to balance out the bold flavors of the noodles.
For toppings, consider adding toasted sesame seeds or fresh cilantro for an extra pop of freshness. A squeeze of lime juice just before serving also brightens up the dish and enhances the savory sauce.
Conclusion
This shrimp lo mein recipe is a flavorful, quick, and satisfying dish that proves homemade meals can taste just as good as takeout. With fresh ingredients and a savory sauce, it delivers restaurant quality results in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Whether you are cooking for yourself or for family, this recipe is sure to please. It is easy to customize, full of vibrant flavours, and perfect for a fast yet wholesome dinner. Once you try it, you will want to make it again and again.
