Mock Chow Mein
Mock Chow Mein offers a comforting blend of tender rice, savory soups, and hearty vegetables with a hint of soy sauce, making it a satisfying meal for family dinners. Its rich flavors and easy preparation make it suitable for those craving a quick, flavorful dish inspired by Chinese classics.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry hamburger and diced onion; drain off fat.
- Mix raw rice, soups, and hamburger in a covered baking dish.
- Add mushrooms along with their juice; do not drain.
- Add soy sauce to taste and stir the mixture.
- Pour about 4 cans of water into the mixture.
- Add celery and stir.
- Bake at 350°F until the rice is done, adding more water if needed.
- Stir the mixture every 30 minutes during baking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian version, substitute the hamburger with sautéed tofu or tempeh for added protein. You can also replace the cream soups with homemade vegetable broth mixed with a little cornstarch for thickness. If you prefer a more intense flavor, consider adding some garlic and ginger to the frying mixture. This dish is versatile, so feel free to include other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mock Chow Mein hot, garnished with sliced green onions for an extra burst of flavor. It pairs wonderfully with Egg Drop Soup With Peas for a complete meal. Consider serving a side of steamed broccoli or a simple cucumber salad to balance the richness of the dish. This meal is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water and microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit more water if necessary to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mock Chow Mein contains roughly 307 calories, with 11g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (157% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2298mg per serving (100% 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 brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the water accordingly and check for doneness periodically, as brown rice typically takes about 45 minutes to cook.
What can I substitute for the cream soups?
If you want a healthier option, consider using a homemade version of cream of mushroom, celery, or chicken soup made with pureed vegetables and a bit of milk or cream. Alternatively, canned coconut milk can provide a creamy texture with a unique flavor.
Is Mock Chow Mein suitable for freezing?
Yes, this dish freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it up on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a bit of water to maintain moisture.
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).