If you’re craving a quick yet satisfying meal, Savory Beef Lo Mein with Soy Garlic Sauce is the perfect recipe to bring restaurant-quality flavors straight to your kitchen. Tender beef strips are stir-fried with colorful vegetables and tossed with noodles in a rich soy-garlic sauce. This dish balances savory, slightly sweet, and umami flavors in a way that makes every bite irresistible.
Not only is it fast to prepare, but it’s also versatile, letting you swap in your favorite vegetables or even a different protein. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a weekend family meal, this recipe will become one of your go-to favorites.
Ingredients
Serves 4
For the Noodles and Beef
- 12 ounces lo mein noodles (or spaghetti as an alternative)
- 1 pound flank steak or sirloin, thinly sliced against the grain
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Vegetables
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup snap peas
- 3 green onions, chopped
For the Soy Garlic Sauce
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
- Slice beef thinly against the grain and toss with cornstarch to create tenderness when stir-frying.
- Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Cook beef until browned and just cooked through, about 3–4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
- Cook lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the remaining oil. Stir-fry carrots, broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas for 4–5 minutes until crisp-tender.
Step 4: Make the Soy Garlic Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, sesame oil, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Return beef to the skillet along with cooked noodles.
- Pour sauce over the mixture and toss everything together until well coated and heated through.
Step 6: Serve
- Garnish with green onions and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
- Top with toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts for extra texture.
- Serve with a side of spring rolls or dumplings for a complete Asian-inspired meal.
- Pair with jasmine tea or a crisp lager for balance.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480 |
| Protein | 32 grams |
| Total Fat | 16 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 4 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 56 grams |
| Sugars | 10 grams |
| Fiber | 5 grams |
| Sodium | 950 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Beef provides protein and iron for energy and muscle health.
- Vegetables add fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Soy garlic sauce delivers bold flavor but can be adjusted for lower sodium by using reduced-sodium soy sauce.
Tips for Best Results
- Slice beef thinly and against the grain to keep it tender.
- Do not overcook vegetables; keeping them slightly crisp enhances both texture and nutrition.
- Adjust spice levels by increasing or reducing red pepper flakes.
- For meal prep, store sauce separately and toss with noodles just before reheating.
Variations to Try
- Substitute beef with chicken, shrimp, or tofu.
- Add mushrooms or baby corn for extra variety.
- Use whole-wheat noodles or zucchini noodles for a lighter version.
- Make it extra spicy by adding chili paste or fresh Thai chilies.
This Savory Beef Lo Mein with Soy Garlic Sauce is a quick and flavorful dinner option that combines tender beef, colorful vegetables, and perfectly cooked noodles in a rich, garlicky sauce. Packed with texture and taste, it’s a dish that rivals your favorite takeout while being healthier and customizable to your preference.