Shanghai Chow Mein
Shanghai Chow Mein offers a savory combination of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and flavorful soy sauce, all topped with noodles. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish combines textures and tastes reminiscent of classic Chinese takeout, appealing to both families and food enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chicken chunks in oil until firm.
- Stir in celery and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add bean sprouts, sliced water chestnuts, bamboo shoots, soup, and soy sauce.
- Stir in green onion tops and heat through.
- Serve over rice and top with chow mein noodles.
Tips & Substitutions
For a variation, feel free to substitute the chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option. If you want added spice, consider incorporating some chili paste or sriracha. Ensure that the chow mein noodles are cooked according to package instructions for the best texture. If you can't find bamboo shoots, sliced bell peppers can work as a substitute, adding a nice crunch to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Shanghai Chow Mein with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. For extra flavor, consider garnishing with sesame seeds or chopped cilantro. This dish pairs beautifully with Spicy Orange Chicken for a larger feast or can be enjoyed on its own as a hearty meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave or a skillet over medium heat. If reheating in a skillet, add a splash of water or broth to prevent the dish from drying out and stir until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shanghai Chow Mein contains roughly 1638 calories, with 37g protein, 214g carbohydrates, and 75g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (75% of the Daily Value), iron (74% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. 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 other proteins instead of chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or even a mix of vegetables for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure everything is cooked thoroughly.
What kind of noodles should I use for chow mein?
For chow mein, it's best to use fresh chow mein noodles for the best texture. However, if unavailable, you can use dried chow mein noodles or even egg noodles as a suitable alternative.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and vegetable mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. Just cook the noodles and rice fresh before serving to maintain the best texture and 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).