Description
Zucchini Noodle Chow Mein is a healthier, low-carb twist on the traditional Chinese stir-fry dish, replacing wheat-based noodles with spiralized zucchini. This version offers the classic flavors and textures of chow mein while incorporating more vegetables.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized into noodles
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or preferred cooking oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 medium onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 large carrot, julienned
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons oyster sauce (or hoisin sauce for a vegetarian option)
- 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional garnishes: chopped cilantro, sesame seeds, or a squeeze of lime juice
Instructions
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Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Set aside.
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Cook the Aromatics:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 2 minutes.
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Add Vegetables:
- Add the sliced red bell pepper and julienned carrot to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften but still retain some crunch.
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Incorporate Zucchini Noodles:
- Add the spiralized zucchini noodles to the skillet, tossing them with the other vegetables. Pour the prepared sauce over the mixture, ensuring all components are evenly coated.
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Cook and Serve:
- Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the zucchini noodles are tender but not mushy. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remove from heat and garnish with optional toppings like chopped cilantro, sesame seeds, or a squeeze of lime juice. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Protein Addition: For added protein, consider incorporating cooked chicken, shrimp, tofu, or edamame. Cook these proteins separately and mix them in during step 4.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to customize this dish by adding other vegetables such as snap peas, mushrooms, or broccoli florets.
- Avoiding Soggy Noodles: To prevent the zucchini noodles from becoming too watery, lightly salt them after spiralizing and let them sit for 10 minutes. Then, gently squeeze out excess moisture before cooking.