Hamburg Chow Mein
Hamburg Chow Mein features savory ground beef, crunchy celery, and bean sprouts in a flavorful soy gravy, perfect for quick, satisfying family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, fry the hamburger and onion until the meat is light brown.
- Add salt, pepper, diced celery, and water to the skillet.
- Bring to a boil and cover, then let simmer for 20 minutes.
- Add rinsed bean sprouts and heat through.
- In a separate bowl, combine 2 tablespoons water, soy sauce, sugar, and brown gravy.
- Add the gravy mixture to the meat and stir until the sauce thickens.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding minced garlic or ginger while cooking the hamburger and onion. If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace the hamburger with a plant-based alternative or tofu. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to enhance the dish. To thicken the sauce more quickly, mix in an extra teaspoon of cornstarch to the gravy mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Hamburg Chow Mein over steamed rice or egg noodles for a satisfying meal. It pairs beautifully with sauces like soy sauce or sweet chili sauce for an extra kick. For a complete dinner, consider serving it alongside a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables, making it a balanced and delicious option.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking, and stir until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hamburg Chow Mein contains roughly 141 calories, with 3g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (69% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2005mg per serving (87% 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 ground turkey instead of hamburger?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for hamburger in this recipe. It will provide a leaner option while still maintaining good flavor. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly, as turkey may require a slightly longer cooking time.
What can I use instead of bean sprouts?
If you can't find bean sprouts, you can use shredded cabbage or thinly sliced snow peas as a substitute. They will add crunch and a fresh flavor to the dish, keeping it close to the original taste.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the point of adding the bean sprouts, then store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat it in a skillet and add the bean sprouts just before serving for the best texture.
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).