Lo mein is a classic Chinese noodle dish that is made with wheat flour noodles. The name “lo mein” translates to “stirred noodles” which refers to how the dish is prepared by tossing the noodles in a wok or pan.
What type of noodles are used for lo mein?
Authentic lo mein is made with wheat flour noodles. Specifically, lo mein is typically made with egg noodles. Egg noodles contain eggs in addition to wheat flour, water, and salt. This gives the noodles a rich, yellow color and a slightly chewy texture.
Common types of wheat flour noodles used for lo mein include:
- Egg noodles
- Shanghai noodles
- Hong Kong noodles
- Wonton noodles
All of these noodle varieties are made with a wheat flour dough. They may differ slightly in width and thickness, but any wheat noodle can be used to prepare an authentic plate of lo mein.
Why use wheat noodles?
Wheat flour noodles are essential for making traditional lo mein for a few key reasons:
- Texture – Wheat noodles have the perfect texture to soak up flavors from sauces and ingredients. They have a nice “chew” yet are soft once cooked.
- Versatility – Wheat noodles hold up well to tossing, frying, and all the mixing required to make lo mein.
- Flavor – Wheat noodles have a neutral flavor that complements but doesn’t overpower other ingredients.
- History – Lo mein originated in China where wheat noodles are a traditional staple ingredient.
Can you use rice noodles or other noodles?
While wheat noodles are traditional, lo mein can also be made with other types of Asian noodles, such as:
- Rice noodles
- Soba (buckwheat) noodles
- Cellophane noodles
However, the texture and flavor will be different from the traditional lo mein. Rice noodles tend to be softer and more delicate. Buckwheat and cellophane noodles have a distinct flavor that alters the taste.
So in summary, while it’s possible to experiment with other noodle varieties, wheat flour noodles are the best choice for making classic, authentic lo mein.
Typical ingredients in lo mein
In addition to wheat noodles, lo mein is usually made with a combination of vegetables, protein, and a flavorful sauce. Common ingredients include:
| Category | Typical Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Protein | Shrimp, chicken, pork, beef, tofu |
| Vegetables | Cabbage, carrot, onion, bell pepper, broccoli |
| Sauce | Soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar |
| Aromatics | Garlic, ginger, scallions |
The sauce is a critical component that gives lo mein its signature flavor. An authentic sauce often contains a blend of soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar.
How is lo mein made?
To make lo mein, the wheat noodles are briefly cooked until tender. Meanwhile, the protein and vegetables are sautéed in a hot wok or pan. The sauce ingredients are added and allowed to caramelize. Finally, the noodles and sauce are combined and tossed until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
The classic technique of tossing and stirring the noodles is what gives lo mein its name which translates to “tossed noodles.” This even coating allows all the ingredients to mingle together into a cohesive, flavorful dish.
Conclusion
In summary, lo mein is made with wheat flour noodles, most commonly egg noodles. The wheat noodles provide the ideal texture and neutral flavor to absorb the other ingredients. While it’s possible to improvise with other types of noodles, wheat noodles remain the best choice for authentic, traditional lo mein. When combined with protein, vegetables and a flavorful sauce, wheat noodles create the perfect balanced and tasty noodle dish.