Beef Lo Mein features tender marinated strips of steak mixed with fresh vegetables, lo mein noodles, and a sweet and savory sauce that’s easy to make. If you prefer chicken, try my Chicken Lo Mein recipe.
Ingredients
Noodles: Use lo mein noodles for this recipe. If you don’t have lo mein noodles, other egg noodles or pasta noodles can be used as a substitute.
Steak: New York strip steak is used in this recipe for its tenderness and ease of slicing. Other cuts like flank steak or ribeye can also be used.
Marinade: Soy sauce and hoisin sauce are used in both the marinade and the sauce. Hoisin sauce is a thick, flavorful sauce often used in stir-fries, as a dipping sauce, and as a glaze for meats.
Vegetables: This recipe includes a variety of vegetables, but feel free to add your favorites to customize the dish.
Differences Between Lo Mein and Chow Mein
The primary difference between lo mein and chow mein lies in the preparation of the noodles. Lo mein means ‘tossed noodles,’ while chow mein means ‘fried noodles.’ In lo mein recipes, the noodles are cooked ahead of time and then tossed with the other ingredients. In chow mein, the noodles are stir-fried with the other ingredients.
How to Cut Steak for Beef Lo Mein
For this recipe, the steak should be thinly sliced. It’s easier to slice the steak when it’s still slightly frozen but thawed enough to cut through. First, remove any gristle from the beef. Then, slice the steak against the grain for the best texture. For wider slices, cut at an angle.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Yes, you can add some heat to this recipe. Although the original recipe isn’t spicy, adding a bit of sriracha, crunchy garlic chili oil, or chili garlic sauce can give it a spicy kick.
How to Store & Freeze Leftovers
Leftover Beef Lo Mein can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. As it sits, the sauce will further flavor the ingredients. To freeze, let the lo mein cool completely before storing it in freezer-safe containers. Label and date the containers; it will keep in the freezer for 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Ingredients
Noodles:
- 8 ounces (225 grams) lo mein noodles, slightly undercooked
Beef:
- ½ pound (225 grams) steak, New York strip
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) hoisin sauce
- ½ teaspoon (2.5 grams) kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon (1.25 grams) ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
Vegetables:
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) garlic, minced
- 1 large carrot, washed and julienned
- 1 medium red bell pepper, washed and julienned
- 1 cup (150 grams) broccoli florets
- 1 cup (100 grams) snow peas
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 cup (237 ml) hot water
Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons (45 ml) soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons (45 ml) hoisin sauce
Instructions
Marinate the Beef:
- Slice the beef into thin strips, about ⅛-inch (0.3 cm) thick, cutting against the grain at a slight angle.
- Place the meat in a medium bowl and add soy sauce, hoisin sauce, salt, and pepper. Toss to combine and refrigerate to marinate for 20-30 minutes.
Cook the Beef:
- Heat a large nonstick pan or wok over medium-high heat.
- Once hot, add olive oil and swirl to coat the bottom of the pan.
- Add the marinated beef and cook, stirring constantly, until mostly cooked through, about 2 minutes.
- Transfer the beef to a plate and cover to keep warm.
Cook the Vegetables:
- In the same pan, add garlic and cook for one minute.
- Add carrots, red bell pepper, broccoli, snow peas, and green onions. Cook, stirring constantly, until the vegetables are
- softened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add hot water and bring to a boil.
Combine Everything:
- Once boiling, add soy sauce and hoisin sauce, stirring to combine.
- Return the beef and noodles to the pan and gently toss everything together.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Enjoy your homemade Savory Beef Lo Mein, a perfect blend of tender beef, fresh vegetables, and flavorful noodles!
