Hurry-Up Chow Mein
A quick and flavorful stir-fry featuring ground beef, crunchy bean sprouts, and vegetables, perfect for busy weeknights craving a savory Chinese-inspired dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger in a skillet over medium heat.
- Pour off the drippings from the browned hamburger.
- Add sliced onion, chopped celery, and water to the skillet.
- Cover tightly and cook over low heat for 15 minutes.
- Add the bean sprouts to the skillet and stir to combine before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker prep, use pre-chopped vegetables or frozen stir-fry mixes. If you prefer a protein alternative, ground turkey or tofu can be excellent substitutions for hamburger. To enhance the flavor, consider adding garlic or ginger while cooking the vegetables. For a bit of heat, a dash of chili sauce can give it an extra kick. This dish pairs wonderfully with Homemade Eggrolls.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this chow mein over a bed of rice or noodles for a heartier meal. It also pairs nicely with a side of steamed broccoli or a simple cucumber salad for freshness. For a full spread, consider serving it alongside Fried Egg Rolls or a bowl of Best Ever Fried Rice to complete the feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain quality.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hurry-Up Chow Mein contains roughly 528 calories, with 11g protein, 93g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (77% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (41% of the Daily Value), and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2599mg per serving (113% 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 a different type of meat in this recipe?
Yes, feel free to substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Each protein will offer a slightly different flavor and texture, but the cooking method remains the same. Just ensure that any meat is thoroughly cooked before adding the vegetables.
Is there a gluten-free option for the soy sauce?
Absolutely! You can use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce as a direct substitute for regular soy sauce. This will allow you to enjoy the flavors of the dish without compromising on dietary restrictions. Just check the labels to ensure they meet your needs.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce during the cooking process. Alternatively, you can serve it with sriracha on the side for those who enjoy more spice. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference to find the perfect balance.
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).