Hi there! If you’re like me, you know how busy life can get. Between work, kids’ activities, and everything else, sometimes the last thing you want to think about is what to make for dinner. But I’ve found a solution that works wonders—this easy and delicious Beef Lo Mein. It’s a family favorite around our house, and I can whip it up in no time!
This recipe brings me back to our family dinners when the kids would come home from school excited about the familiar aroma filling the house. They would rush to the table, eager to dig into a plate of tender noodles mixed with veggies and flavorful beef. We often enjoy this dish on busy weeknights when we need something quick yet satisfying. It’s versatile, too—you can easily customize the veggies or switch things up depending on what you have on hand.
I love that this Beef Lo Mein is not only simple to make, but it’s also packed with flavor. With a savory sauce and fresh ingredients, it’s a great way to get everyone in the family to eat their veggies! Plus, each bite is filled with that comforting taste that makes you feel right at home. Whether you’re cooking for the family or having a dinner party, this lo mein is sure to please. So, let’s get started on making this quick and yummy dish together—trust me, you won’t regret it!
How to Make Beef Lo Mein
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Ingredients
- 1 lb beef, thinly sliced
- 8 oz lo mein noodles, cooked
- 2 large carrots, diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/4 cup hot water
- 1 tbsp beef bouillon
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- Oil (for frying)
Directions
Start by mixing one-fourth cup of hot water with the beef bouillon and brown sugar in a small bowl. Stir this mixture until everything is well combined. Then add the soy sauce to this mixture and set it aside.
Next, in a large skillet, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sliced beef and cook until it is browned on all sides. After that, remove the beef from the skillet and place it on a plate, allowing it to rest.
Using the same skillet, toss in the chopped onion and sauté it until it gets a nice golden color. Then, add the diced carrots and let them cook for a couple of minutes until they start to soften. Next up is the broccoli; stir it in and let it cook for three minutes, then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Now, return the browned beef to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Pour the prepared sauce over everything in the skillet and let it simmer gently for about two minutes.
Finally, add the cooked lo mein noodles directly into the skillet and toss everything together until the noodles are well coated with the delicious sauce. Serve it hot, and enjoy this comforting meal!
Storing Suggestion
To store leftover Beef Lo Mein, allow it to cool before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it later, it can also be frozen for up to a month—just be sure to reheat it thoroughly before consuming.
Cooking Tips
If you want to enhance the flavors, consider adding a splash of oyster sauce or some chili paste for a little kick! For a vegetarian version, you can easily swap the beef for tofu or mushrooms and use vegetable bouillon instead. These small changes can really make a big difference.
Serving Suggestions
This Beef Lo Mein is perfect on its own, but if you’re feeling like serving a full spread, it pairs wonderfully with steamed dumplings or a light cucumber salad. For drinks, a chilled iced tea or a light Asian-inspired beverage complements the meal perfectly.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have lo mein noodles, any type of quick-cooking noodle like chow mein or even spaghetti can work in a pinch. You can also replace the beef with chicken or shrimp if that’s what you prefer. Just be cautious of cooking times, as they may vary!
Seasonal Variations
In spring, you can add some fresh peas or snap peas for extra crunch. During the fall, consider mixing in some sliced bell peppers and mushrooms. Depending on the season, feel free to swap in any of your favorite veggies to keep things fresh and exciting!
Allergen Information
This recipe does contain soy sauce, which is made from wheat, so it’s not gluten-free. For a gluten-free alternative, make sure to use tamari or a certified gluten-free soy sauce. Always check the labels of your specific ingredients to avoid allergens.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat in Beef Lo Mein?
Yes, absolutely! While beef is traditional in lo mein, you can substitute it with chicken, pork, shrimp, or even go completely vegetarian with tofu. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly for different proteins.
How can I make my Beef Lo Mein spicier?
If you like a little heat, add some chili garlic sauce or red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture. You can also drizzle some Sriracha on top just before serving to give it a spicy kick that complements the flavors beautifully.
What if I don’t have lo mein noodles?
No worries! If you can’t find lo mein noodles, feel free to use other types of noodles such as chow mein, spaghetti, or even rice noodles. Just make sure to cook them according to the package instructions, and you’ll be good to go!
Can I make Beef Lo Mein ahead of time?
You certainly can! The great thing about this dish is that it holds up well in the refrigerator for a few days. Just prepare it as usual, let it cool, store it, and reheat it in a skillet when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
How do I store leftover Beef Lo Mein?
Leftover Beef Lo Mein should be cooled down before transferring it to an airtight container. It can last up to three days in the refrigerator, or if you’re planning to enjoy it later, you can freeze it for about a month. Just thaw and reheat when ready!
What sides go well with Beef Lo Mein?
This dish is quite filling on its own, but you might want to complement it with some steamed dumplings, spring rolls, or a light salad. For a refreshing drink, consider iced tea or even a light beer that pairs well with the meal.
Beef Lo Mein
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef, thinly sliced
- 8 oz lo mein noodles, cooked
- 2 large carrots, diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/4 cup hot water
- 1 tbsp beef bouillon
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- Oil for frying
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix hot water with beef bouillon and brown sugar, stirring until dissolved. Add soy sauce and set aside.
- Heat sesame oil in a skillet, then cook beef strips until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the onion until golden. Add the carrots and cook until they begin to soften. Stir in the broccoli and cook for about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the sauce over everything and let it simmer for 2 minutes.
- Add the cooked lo mein noodles to the skillet, tossing everything together until evenly coated.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
