Are Chow Mein and Ramen Noodles the Same?

No, chow mein and ramen noodles are not the same. Chow mein is a Chinese dish consisting of stir-fried noodles that are crispy or slightly soft, while ramen noodles are a type of Japanese noodle that is typically served in a flavorful broth. They differ in terms of origin, texture, and cooking method, making them distinct dishes in Asian cuisine.

What Is the Difference Between Lo Mein and Chow Mein?

The main difference between lo mein and chow mein lies in their cooking techniques and texture. Lo mein is a Chinese dish that consists of soft noodles that are boiled and then tossed in a sauce along with various vegetables, meat, or seafood. On the other hand, chow mein is a Chinese dish where the noodles are first parboiled and then stir-fried until they become slightly crispy. Chow mein typically includes a mixture of vegetables, meat, or seafood along with the noodles. The key distinction is that lo mein has a softer texture, while chow mein has a crispier texture due to the stir-frying process.

Panda Express Chow Mein

Name: Panda Express Chow Mein
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon Chinese cooking wine; 2 tablespoons Dark soy sauce; 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper; 1 1/2 tablespoons oyster sauce; 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil; 2 teaspoons cornstarch; 8 ounces chow mein noodles (or yakisoba noodles); 3 tablespoons neutral oil, such as canola or vegetable oil; ½ cup yellow onion , sliced (about ½ large yellow onion); ½ cup celery, thinly sliced (about 2 medium ribs); 3 cups green cabbage, finely shredded; 2 tablespoons cloves garlic, finely chopped, divided; 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated; 2 tablespoons water; Green onions, thinly sliced for toppings

Description

These stir-fried noodles are loaded with veggies and tossed in a savory sauce, making it the perfect side dish or main course. Bring the taste of your favorite Chinese takeout right into your kitchen with this flavorful and satisfying dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Chow Mein Sauce Ingredients

1 tablespoon Chinese cooking wine
2 tablespoons Dark soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
1 1/2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
2 teaspoons cornstarch

Chow Mein Ingredients

8 ounces chow mein noodles (or yakisoba noodles)
3 tablespoons neutral oil, such as canola or vegetable oil
½ cup yellow onion , sliced (about ½ large yellow onion)
½ cup celery, thinly sliced (about 2 medium ribs)
3 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
2 tablespoons cloves garlic, finely chopped, divided
2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated
2 tablespoons water
Green onions, thinly sliced for toppings

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Instructions

Make the sauce: In a small bowl, combine the sauce ingredients. Whisk them together until well mixed. Keep aside.
Cook the noodles: Bring a large wok or pot of water to a boil. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions until al dente, then transfer to a colander. Rinse with cold water until they become bouncy and completely cool. Drain thoroughly and transfer to a large sheet tray. Drizzle a bit of oil over the noodles to prevent sticking and toss to coat evenly. Set aside.
Stir fry veggies: Heat a large skillet, frying pan, or wok over high heat and add the vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add the onions, celery and green cabbage. Stir-fry for 30 seconds, then let it cook undisturbed until they become slightly charred on one side, which should take about 1 minute. Give the mixture another toss and continue cooking for 1 minute. Add 1 1/2 tablespoons of garlic and ginger, and cook for 40-60 seconds or until fragrant.
Add the noodles to the skillet and stir-fry over high heat for an additional minute. Then, add the chow mein sauce and water, and cook for another 30 seconds. Turn off the heat and add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of garlic. Toss everything together until well combined.
Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Enjoy!

Notes

Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Make sure to cool the noodles completely before transferring to the container. When ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply reheat in a skillet or microwave until heated through.

Tips

Swap the dry chow mein noodles with Yaki soba noodles or lo mein noodles for an easy alternative.
If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace the oyster sauce with vegetarian oyster sauce made from mushrooms.
For an authentic Panda flavor, use vegetable broth instead of water to cook the noodles.
For added sweetness, add a teaspoon of brown sugar.

Prep Time: 10 min
Cook Time: 10 min
Category: Copycat Recipes
Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

Calories: 269 kcal
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 456 mg
Fat: 6 g
Saturated Fat: 5 g
Carbohydrates: 8 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 2 g