Chinese Stir Fried Noodles Build Your Own

Build your dream Chinese stir-fry: noodles, protein, veggies – but which perfect combination will banish takeout for good?

noodle dish customization option

Ditch the takeout menu and unleash your inner chef!

We're diving into the delicious world of customizable stir-fried noodles, where you control every ingredient from the noodle type to your favorite protein and veggies.

Get ready to create stir-fry perfection tailored to your exact cravings!

Choose Your Noodles

select your noodle option

Now, when you're makin' stir-fried noodles, the first thing you gotta nail is—yep, you guessed it—the noodles themselves! I'm talkin' about gettin' that perfect, slurp-worthy goodness that makes ya wanna dance in your kitchen.

First things first, decide what you are in the mood for.

Thin egg noodles are awesome, or try thicker udon noodles if you're feelin' chunky! Seriously consider lo mein—they're the champions of sauce-grabbin'. A great option is fresh flat rice noodles, reminiscent of the authentic Char Kway Teow. You can find them fresh or dried, about 8 to 16 ounces for a family of four, which sounds like a noodle party, doesn't it?!

Make sure you cook 'em just right. I always undercook 'em a tad because let's be real, they'll continue cooking in the stir-fry pan. Nobody likes mushy noodles. Trust me, slightly al dente is the way to go!

Select Your Protein

choose protein for selection

I think selecting the right protein can really make or break your stir-fried noodles—trust me, it's kinda like choosing the star player for your dish! So, what's your go-to MVP?

First, you can use chicken! I advise that you cut about 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Then another thing you can use, shrimp: Half a pound of peeled and deveined shrimp cooks super fast, I might add!

Tofu is something else you can use! I advise that firm or extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed, works great. It absorbs all those yummy flavors, I might throw in!

Last, but not least, you can use pork. Thinly sliced pork tenderloin or shoulder's recommended. Remember that whatever protein you choose, make sure it's cooked through before adding the other stuff. You can also use chicken thigh to add even more flavor with savory, sweet, and nutty notes. Remember that whatever protein you choose, make sure it's cooked through before adding the other stuff.

Pick Your Vegetables

choose your greens wisely

With a stir-fry, picking your vegetables can be like gathering the Avengers of the veggie world—each brings something special to the table! I suggest aiming for around 2 cups of cut veggies for a great mix.

Don't be shy—chop up some bell peppers. Red, yellow, or orange—about half a pepper, sliced, will do! I'm also a big fan of broccoli florets; about 1 cup adds a nice crunch. And of course, carrots—julienned or sliced. Half a cup should do just fine.

  • Snap Peas: These add a sweet crunch! Use about 1/2 cup!
  • Mushrooms: Such as shiitake or cremini, offer an earthy depth and provide around a cup sliced.
  • Bean Sprouts: They provide some final delightful crunch. Use around a ½ cup.

Build Your Sauce

create your own sauce

Ah, the sauce—where the magic really happens! I'm gonna guide you through crafting a flavor explosion.

First, grab a small bowl. I usually start with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce—that's the base. Then, whisk in 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce for some umami goodness. Don't skip this; it's a game-changer!

Next, add 1 teaspoon of sesame oil, because who doesn't love that nutty flavor? I also like a little sweetness, so I throw in 1 teaspoon of brown sugar. It balances everything perfectly.

Now, for a bit of zing, crush in 1 clove of garlic—or, if you're feeling lazy like me, use 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder! Add 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger. Finally, a dash of white pepper. Give it a good mix. Taste, and adjust to your liking! It's that simple, I think.

Short Recipe Version

Chinese Stir Fried Noodles (Build Your Own)

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Servings: 2

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz Noodles (e.g., Lo Mein, Chow Mein)
  • 1 tbsp Cooking Oil
  • 1/2 lb Protein (e.g., Chicken, Beef, Tofu)
  • 1 cup Vegetables (e.g., Broccoli, Carrots, Peppers)
  • 1/4 cup Stir-Fry Sauce (Soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, corn starch)
  • 1 tsp Garlic (minced)
  • 1 tsp Ginger (minced)

Instructions:

  1. Cook noodles according to package directions.
  2. Heat oil in a wok or large pan over medium-high heat.
  3. Add protein and cook until browned.
  4. Add garlic and ginger, cook for 30 seconds.
  5. Add vegetables and stir-fry until tender-crisp.
  6. Add noodles and sauce; stir until well combined and heated through.

Nutrition (Estimated Per Serving):

  • Calories: 500-600
  • Protein: 30-40g
  • Fat: 20-30g
  • Carbohydrates: 50-60g