Michael Davis
Mushroom chow mein is a dish of stir-fried noodles with vegetables and sometimes meat or tofu. It is a Chinese dish that has gained popularity worldwide, especially in India, Nepal, the UK, and the US. The dish typically includes mushrooms, noodles, and a stir-fry sauce, and can be made with various types of mushrooms and noodles to suit different dietary preferences. It is often served as a quick and easy meal that can be adapted to different tastes and requirements.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Main ingredients | Mushrooms, noodles, vegetables, meat or tofu |
| Types of mushrooms | Chestnut, oyster, shiitake, portobello, white button, enoki, cremini |
| Types of noodles | Wheat-based, egg, ramen, udon, rice, soba |
| Sauce ingredients | Oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, rice wine, sesame seeds, garlic |
| Cooking oil | Sesame oil, vegetable oil, canola oil |
| Other ingredients | Spring onions, scallions, tofu, meat, broccoli |
| Nutritional info (per serving) | Calories: 480kcal, Carbohydrates: 72g, Protein: 16g, Fat: 16g |
| Dietary options | Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free |
| Preparation time | 15 minutes |
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What You'll Learn
Types of mushrooms used in chow mein
Mushrooms are a versatile ingredient, and there are many types that can be used in a chow mein. The type of mushroom you use will depend on your preference for texture and flavour. Here are some of the most commonly used mushrooms in chow mein:
Chestnut Mushrooms
Also known as cremini mushrooms, chestnut mushrooms are a popular choice for chow mein due to their firm texture and earthy flavour. They hold up well during stir-frying and provide a hearty base for the dish. Chestnut mushrooms are widely available and can be found in most supermarkets.
Oyster Mushrooms
Oyster mushrooms are known for their delicate, silky texture and mild flavour. They add a unique umami taste to the dish without overpowering other ingredients. Oyster mushrooms are also versatile and can be used in a variety of recipes, enhancing the flavour of the dish.
Shiitake Mushrooms
Shiitake mushrooms have a distinct earthy and savoury flavour. They are commonly used in Asian cuisine and are known for their meaty texture and rich, aromatic taste. Shiitake mushrooms are a great way to add depth of flavour to chow mein.
Portobello Mushrooms
Portobello mushrooms are large, mature mushrooms with a meaty texture and robust flavour. They are a popular choice for chow mein as they can hold their shape well during cooking and provide a satisfying bite. Portobello mushrooms are also versatile and can be grilled, roasted, or stir-fried.
White Button Mushrooms
White button mushrooms are the most common variety and are known for their mild flavour and tender texture. They are widely available and affordable, making them a popular choice for chow mein and other dishes. White button mushrooms are versatile and can be cooked in a variety of ways.
When making mushroom chow mein, you can choose to use a single type of mushroom or a combination of different varieties to create a unique flavour and texture profile. Experimenting with different types of mushrooms can lead to delicious results and make your chow mein stand out.
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Types of noodles used in mushroom chow mein
Mushroom chow mein is a delicious and versatile dish that can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and dietary requirements. While there are many variations of the recipe, the type of noodles used in mushroom chow mein typically falls into one of the following categories:
Chow Mein Noodles
These are wheat-based noodles that are often made with egg. They are usually quite thin and pale in appearance. Fresh or dried chow mein noodles can be used, depending on availability and personal preference. If using dried noodles, it is important to follow the packet instructions for cooking, and then rinse the noodles in cold water to prevent them from sticking together.
Egg Noodles
Egg noodles are a popular choice for mushroom chow mein, adding a soft texture to the dish. They can be used as a substitute for chow mein noodles, especially if you prefer a more eggy flavour. Fresh or dried egg noodles can be used, and they are readily available in most supermarkets.
Udon Noodles
Udon noodles are thick wheat-based noodles that are commonly used in Japanese cuisine. They are a good vegan alternative to egg noodles and can add a nice chewy texture to the dish. Udon noodles are typically boiled for 8-10 minutes until soft before being added to the stir-fry.
Other Noodle Options
While less commonly used, other types of noodles such as rice noodles, soba noodles, or even ramen noodles can be used in mushroom chow mein. It is important to note that the cooking instructions may vary for different types of noodles, so always refer to the packet instructions. Additionally, some recipes may call for dried noodles, which can be prepared by boiling and then tossing them with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
In conclusion, the type of noodles used in mushroom chow mein can vary depending on personal preference, availability, and dietary requirements. Whether you choose traditional chow mein noodles, egg noodles, udon noodles, or something else, the key is to experiment and find the combination of ingredients that suits your taste!
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Nutritional value of mushroom chow mein
Mushroom chow mein is a nutritious and flavourful dish that can be easily adapted to suit vegetarian and vegan diets. The dish is typically prepared with a variety of mushrooms, noodles, vegetables, and a savoury stir-fry sauce. Here is a breakdown of the nutritional value of mushroom chow mein:
Mushrooms: Mushrooms are a good source of B vitamins, including riboflavin, niacin, and pantothenic acid. They also contain selenium, potassium, phosphorus, and copper. Mushrooms are a type of fungi with a distinct umami flavour, and they can be a good substitute for meat in vegetarian and vegan dishes. In mushroom chow mein, a variety of mushrooms can be used, such as chestnut, oyster, shiitake, portobello, and white button mushrooms. Each type of mushroom contributes to the dish's texture and flavour profile.
Noodles: The type of noodles used in mushroom chow mein can vary, but commonly, wheat-based or egg noodles are used. Udon noodles are also a popular choice and are vegan-friendly. Noodles contribute carbohydrates to the dish, providing energy to the body. They also contain some protein and essential amino acids.
Vegetables: Mushroom chow mein is typically packed with vegetables, adding to its nutritional value. Common vegetables included in the dish are onions, garlic, carrots, cabbage, beansprouts, and spring onions. These vegetables provide dietary fibre, vitamins, and minerals. Additionally, some recipes may include broccoli, bamboo shoots, green beans, or mange tout, further enhancing the dish's nutritional profile.
Sauce: The savoury stir-fry sauce used in mushroom chow mein can be made with a combination of soy sauce, rice wine, hoisin sauce, minced garlic, and sesame seeds. Oyster sauce is also commonly used in chow mein sauce but can be substituted with vegetarian or vegan alternatives. The sauce contributes to the overall flavour of the dish and can provide additional nutrients, such as amino acids from soy sauce and healthy fats from sesame seeds.
While the exact nutritional content of mushroom chow mein can vary depending on the specific ingredients and proportions used, a serving of this dish can provide a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with vitamins and minerals. It is a versatile and nutritious option that can be tailored to suit individual dietary preferences and restrictions.
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How to cook mushrooms for chow mein
Mushroom chow mein is a tasty, savoury dish packed with umami flavour. It is also a quick and easy vegetarian option. You can use a variety of mushrooms, including chestnut, oyster, shiitake, portobello, and white button mushrooms. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to cook the mushrooms for this delicious dish:
Prepare the mushrooms
First, choose your favourite type of mushroom or a combination of mushrooms. Clean the mushrooms by brushing off any dirt with a damp paper towel or cloth. Then, slice or chop the mushrooms into bite-sized pieces. You can also leave smaller mushrooms whole if you prefer.
Cook the mushrooms
Heat a wok or a large pan over medium-high heat. You can add a small amount of oil, such as vegetable oil or sesame oil, to the pan to prevent the mushrooms from sticking. However, some recipes recommend cooking the mushrooms without oil or with just a splash of water to sear them. Add the mushrooms to the pan and cook, stirring or tossing occasionally, for about 3-5 minutes until they are golden brown. You may need to adjust the cooking time depending on the size and type of mushroom you are using.
Add aromatics and vegetables
Once the mushrooms are cooked, add your choice of aromatics and vegetables to the pan. Common ingredients used in mushroom chow mein include onions, garlic, spring onions, carrots, cabbage, beansprouts, and broccoli. Cook these ingredients along with the mushrooms for a few minutes until they are slightly softened. You can also add meat or protein sources such as tofu, chicken, or prawns at this stage if desired.
Combine with noodles and sauce
In a separate pot, cook the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the noodles and set them aside. In a small bowl, prepare the chow mein sauce by combining soy sauce, rice wine, hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, garlic, and sesame seeds. Adjust the seasoning to taste. Finally, add the cooked noodles to the wok along with the sauce. Toss everything together until the sauce evenly coats the noodles and the mushrooms are distributed throughout.
Serve your mushroom chow mein immediately, garnished with sesame seeds and scallions or spring onions. Enjoy!
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Variations of mushroom chow mein
Mushroom chow mein is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some variations to consider:
Vegetarian or Vegan Mushroom Chow Mein:
This variation omits meat and uses plant-based alternatives to make the dish suitable for vegetarians or vegans. Instead of oyster sauce, which is commonly used in Chow Mein, a vegetarian stir-fry sauce or mushroom sauce can be used. Vegetable oil is used for cooking, and tofu can be added for extra protein.
Choice of Mushrooms:
While chestnut mushrooms are a popular choice for chow mein, you can use a variety of mushrooms such as oyster, shiitake, portobello, white button, or enoki mushrooms. Using a mix of mushroom varieties can add depth of flavor and texture to the dish.
Noodle Options:
Traditional chow mein noodles are wheat-based and often made with egg. However, you can use other types of noodles like egg noodles, udon noodles, rice noodles, soba noodles, or even ramen noodles. If using dried noodles, it is essential to boil them according to the packet instructions and then rinse them with cold water to prevent sticking.
Additional Vegetables:
Mushroom chow mein can be customized with various vegetables. Commonly added vegetables include onions, garlic, carrots, cabbage, bell peppers, beansprouts, and spring onions. Other options include broccoli, bamboo shoots, sliced green beans, and mange tout.
Meat Options:
For those who enjoy meat, mushroom chow mein can be paired with beef, chicken, or prawns. These additions can provide a heartier meal and a contrast in textures.
Sauce Variations:
While the classic chow mein sauce includes oyster sauce, soy sauce, rice wine, and hoisin sauce, you can experiment with additional ingredients. For instance, adding kecap manis, vegetable stock, sesame oil, and white pepper can enhance the flavor and add depth to the sauce.
These variations offer a range of options to customize your mushroom chow mein, making it a versatile and adaptable dish to suit different tastes and dietary needs.
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Frequently asked questions
Chow mein is a Chinese dish of stir-fried noodles with vegetables and sometimes meat or tofu.
Yes, mushrooms are often included in chow mein. There are many recipes for mushroom chow mein, which is a vegetarian/vegan option.
You can use a variety of mushrooms, including chestnut, oyster, shiitake, portobello, white button, enoki, and cremini mushrooms.
You can use wheat-based chow mein noodles, egg noodles, or ramen noodles. For a vegan option, use udon noodles instead of egg noodles.
