| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Soy sauce | ¼ cup (60 ml) | Low-sodium recommended |
| Beef broth | ½ cup (120 ml) | |
| Brown sugar | 1 tablespoon | For a touch of sweetness |
| Toasted sesame oil | 1 tablespoon | For that authentic lo mein flavor |
| Cornstarch | 1 teaspoon | To help thicken the sauce |
| Garlic powder | ½ teaspoon | |
| Ground ginger | ¼ teaspoon |
For the Lo Mein
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lo mein noodles or spaghetti | 8 oz (about ½ a standard box) | |
| Ground beef | 1 lb (450 g) | 80/20 recommended for flavor |
| Yellow onion | ½ cup, diced | |
| Garlic | 2 cloves, minced | |
| Mixed vegetables | 2 cups | A bag of frozen stir-fry vegetables works wonderfully |
| Green onions | For garnish |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Ingredients
Cook the noodles according to the package directions. Drain and set aside. While the noodles are cooking, mix all the sauce ingredients together in a small bowl and set aside.
2. Brown the Beef
In a large skillet or wok, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it's browned and cooked through. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, until it softens. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the Vegetables
Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook for 3-4 minutes, until they are tender-crisp.
4. Combine Everything
Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet and stir to coat the beef and vegetables. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly. Add the cooked noodles and toss everything together until the noodles are well coated and heated through.
5. Serve
Garnish with sliced green onions and serve immediately.
Pro Tips for the Best Lo Mein
Don't Overcook the Noodles: Cook your noodles just until al dente, as they will continue to cook a little when you toss them in the skillet.
Use High Heat: A hot skillet helps create that delicious, slightly smoky flavor that is characteristic of good lo mein.
Prep Your Ingredients: Have everything ready to go before you start cooking, as the dish comes together quickly.
Delicious Variations
| Variation | What to Add/Change |
|---|---|
| Spicy Lo Mein | Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce. |
| Chicken Lo Mein | Use ground chicken instead of beef. |
| Vegetarian Lo Mein | Use a plant-based ground meat substitute. |
| Extra Veggies | Add sliced bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of noodle?
Yes! You can use spaghetti, linguine, or any long, thin noodle. Rice noodles or ramen noodles also work.
Can I make this ahead of time?
While it's best fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this?
Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the noodles can change.
