Panda Express Chow Mein (Copycat)
User Reviews
5
Panda Express Chow Mein (Copycat)
Description
This copycat version of Panda Express Chow Mein blends pre-packaged yakisoba noodles with fresh vegetables: celery, onion, and chopped cabbage. A sauce combining soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper lends depth with its mix of umami, sweetness, and mild heat. The dish is cooked in vegetable oil over medium-high heat, quickly sautéing the vegetables to maintain slight crispness and prevent them from becoming soggy.
The noodles are rinsed after removing them from packaging to wash away flavor packets, resulting in a more balanced and controlled taste. After combining with the sauce and vegetables in the pan, the chow mein is stir-fried briefly until thoroughly heated and the sauce coats all components evenly.
This chow mein works well as a side for various Asian dishes or as a vegetarian main when additional protein is added. The fresh vegetable mix and well-rounded sauce make it a satisfying and textured noodle dish.
Adding a small amount of sesame oil is optional but can deepen flavor; it should be used sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish. Care should be taken not to overcook the noodles to prevent breaking them and maintain ideal texture.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger grated fresh
- ground black pepper to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 (5.6 ounce) packages yakisoba noodles Found in the produce section of the grocery store. Usually, the 3 packages are sold together in one 17oz. pack, or Chinese egg noodles
- ⅔ cup celery chopped diagonally
- 1 medium onion thinly sliced
- 2 cups cabbage chopped
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and black pepper. Set aside.
- Remove noodles from packages and discard included flavoring packets. Rinse noodles well, drain, and set aside.
- Heat oil in a large wok or skillet over medium heat. Add celery and onion and sauté for about 1-2 minutes or until onions start to become soft and transparent. Add cabbage and sauté an additional minute.
- Add noodles and soy sauce mixture to the vegetables. Stir-fry over medium-high heat for an additional 2-3 minutes or until noodles are heated through.
Notes
- If desired, add a small amount of sesame oil alongside vegetable oil to enhance flavor but avoid using too much as it can dominate the dish.
- Rinse noodles after removing from package to remove seasoning packets for a balanced taste.
- Do not overcook the noodles; heat through while preserving their texture to avoid breaking.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 8Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 169 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 169kcal | 8% |
| Carbohydrates | 26g | 9% |
| Protein | 5g | 10% |
| Fat | 5g | 8% |
| Saturated Fat | 4g | 20% |
| Sodium | 556mg | 23% |
| Potassium | 175mg | 4% |
| Fiber | 2g | 8% |
| Sugar | 5g | 10% |
| Vitamin A | 73IU | 1% |
| Vitamin C | 11mg | 12% |
| Calcium | 27mg | 3% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.