Chow Mein
Chow Mein is a hearty, savory dish featuring ground beef, rice, and vegetables in a rich soy sauce. Its comforting flavors and simple preparation make it perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners, offering a satisfying and flavorful meal with a balanced mix of protein and vegetables.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and cook until softened.
- In a separate pot, bring 2 cups of boiling water to a boil.
- Cook the rice in the boiling water until tender.
- Drain the cooked rice and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, soy sauce, cream of mushroom soup, chopped onions, celery, and cooked ground beef.
- Mix well and pour into a casserole dish.
- Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding garlic or ginger to the beef while browning. You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter dish. If you prefer a more traditional chow mein experience, add bean sprouts and sliced bell peppers to the mix. This recipe can easily be adapted to include your favorite vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chow mein with a side of steamed vegetables or an Asian-style salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Teriyaki Steak Strips for a hearty feast. For a comforting twist, consider serving it alongside a bowl of wonton soup for a delightful Asian-inspired dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent the rice from drying out. You can microwave it covered, or reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chow Mein contains roughly 984 calories, with 39g protein, 110g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (77% of the Daily Value), iron (39% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with chicken, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Each will bring a different flavor profile to the dish, so choose based on your preference.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate chili flakes or sriracha into the mixture before baking. You could also serve it with a side of Chinese Chili for an extra kick. Adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
What can I do if I don't have cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can create a homemade version by blending sautéed mushrooms with cream or a plant-based milk. Alternatively, use any cream-based soup, like cream of chicken, for a different flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).