Classic Chinese Chow Mein

This classic chow mein only require several main ingredients: noodle, bean sprouts, onion, green onions and seasonings. I love the simplicity of this dish and its flavour should not be undermined. If you want to add in some proteins, you can do so with beef or chicken. The secret of this recipe is similar to the Chinese fried rice. A high heat cooking is required to get the toasty flavour. Thus, I recommend you to lay out all ingredients and seasonings on kitchen counter.

Skill Level: Easy

Serves: 6 

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 pack (454 g/1 lb) chow mein noodle
• 3 L water
• 3 cups bean sprouts
• 1 bunch green onion, cut into 2" length
• 3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
• 1 onion, sliced
• 3 tbsp soy sauce 
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce (for vegetarian option: you can use vegetarian style "oyster" sauce)
• 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 6 tbsp cooking oil 
• 4 tbsp water
• white pepper to taste
• toasted sesame seeds for garnishing

 METHOD: 

1. In a pot, boil 3 L of water and cook the noodle for about 2 minutes
2. Drain and rinse the noodle to wash off starch
3. In a wok, heat up cooking oil till smoking hot. Add in onion and garlic, cook till golden brown
4. Stir in green onions and cook for another minute
5. Add in the noodle, all seasonings and 3 tbsp water, stir until uniform. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes
6. Lastly, add in bean sprouts and stir for another 2 minutes
7. Serve with toasted seeds