Pork Lo Mein

Introduction

Pork Lo Mein is a delightful dish that celebrates the perfect combination of tender pork and savory noodles, tossed in a flavorful sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave a taste of Chinese cuisine.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Pork tenderloin – 1 pound
Lo mein noodles – 8 ounces
Soy sauce – 1/4 cup
Oyster sauce – 2 tablespoons
Sesame oil – 1 tablespoon
Garlic, minced – 3 cloves
Ginger, minced – 1 tablespoon
Bell pepper, sliced – 1 medium
Carrots, julienned – 1 medium
Green onions, chopped – 2
Vegetable oil – for cooking

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time – 15 minutes
Total Time – 30 minutes
Yield – Serves 4

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Noodles

Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the lo mein noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and rinse them briefly under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and a pinch of sugar. Stir until the sugar has dissolved completely. Set this sauce mixture aside.

Step 3: Cook the Pork

In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add thinly sliced pork and stir-fry until the pork is fully cooked and browned, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the cooked pork from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if necessary. Add minced garlic and sliced bell peppers. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes until the vegetables are tender but crisp.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked pork to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the drained lo mein noodles and pour the prepared sauce over everything. Toss everything together and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the noodles are well coated with the sauce.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from heat and serve the pork lo mein hot, garnished with sliced green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Notes

Note 1

You can customize this dish by adding or substituting vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas according to your preference.

Note 2

For a spicier version, you may add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.

Note 3

Make sure to use high-quality soy sauce for the best flavor.

Note 4

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Cook techniques

Stir-Frying

Stir-frying is a quick cooking method that involves tossing ingredients in a hot wok or pan with a small amount of oil. This technique helps to retain the colors and nutrients in the vegetables while evenly cooking the protein.

Boiling Noodles

Boiling noodles is a foundational technique for many Asian dishes. It’s important to cook the noodles just until al dente, so they maintain a firm texture and don’t become mushy when stir-fried later.

Marinating Meat

Marinating is key to enhancing the flavor of pork lo mein. Allowing the meat to sit in a mixture of sauces adds depth and richness, providing a better overall taste.

Chopping Vegetables

Properly chopping vegetables ensures even cooking and a pleasing presentation. Uniform pieces allow for consistent cooking times and enhance the dish’s texture.

Tossing Ingredients

Tossing ingredients helps ensure that the flavor is distributed evenly throughout the dish. This technique is crucial when combining noodles, meat, and vegetables in the stir-fry.

Garnishing

Garnishing adds the finishing touches to a dish, enhancing its visual appeal. Fresh herbs, sesame seeds, or green onions are often used to complement the flavors in pork lo mein.

FAQ

What type of pork is best for lo mein?

Tender cuts of pork, such as loin or tenderloin, work best for lo mein as they cook quickly and remain juicy.

Can I use other noodles instead of lo mein noodles?

Yes, you can substitute lo mein noodles with chow mein noodles or even spaghetti in a pinch, though the texture may differ.

How do I store leftover lo mein?

Store leftover lo mein in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Can I make pork lo mein vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute the pork with tofu or additional vegetables to create a delicious vegetarian version of lo mein.

What vegetables can I add to pork lo mein?

Common vegetables for lo mein include bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snow peas, and bok choy. Feel free to mix in your favorites!

Conclusion

With its delightful combination of tender pork and crisp vegetables, Pork Lo Mein is a versatile dish that can easily become a favorite in any household. Its quick preparation time and the use of various ingredients make it a perfect option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Enjoy the harmony of flavors and textures that this dish brings to your table.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetable Lo Mein

Swap pork for an array of fresh vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas for a vibrant vegetarian version that still delivers on taste.

Chicken Lo Mein

Use sautéed chicken breast as a protein alternative, keeping the same flavorful sauce to create a hearty chicken lo mein that everyone will love.

Beef Lo Mein

Replace pork with thinly sliced beef, marinated in soy sauce for a rich and savory rendition that pairs beautifully with the noodles.

Shrimp Lo Mein

For a seafood twist, incorporate shrimp that cooks quickly, adding a delightful ocean flavor to the classic lo mein.

Spicy Pork Lo Mein

Add chili paste or sriracha to the sauce for an extra kick, transforming your pork lo mein into a spicy dish that heat lovers will appreciate.

Lo Mein Salad

Reimagine this dish by serving cold as a lo mein salad, with fresh veggies and a light dressing for a refreshing summer meal option.