Michael Davis
Lo mein is a popular Chinese dish that typically consists of noodles, vegetables, and a protein such as beef, chicken, or tofu. While the specific ingredients can vary, mushrooms are a common addition to lo mein and can add a rich, meaty flavor to the dish. The type of mushrooms used in lo mein can range from shiitake to cremini, oyster, or white button mushrooms, depending on personal preference and availability. In this paragraph, we will explore the role of mushrooms in lo mein and provide insights into how they enhance the taste and texture of this beloved dish.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Lo mein with mushrooms recipes | Spicy sesame mushroom lo mein, Vegetable Lo Mein with Cabbage and Mushrooms, Umami Mushroom Lo Mein, Mushroom and Scallion Lo Mein, Lo Mein with Mushrooms and Snow Peas |
| Ingredients | Mushrooms, noodles, ginger, garlic, scallions, cilantro, hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, soy sauce, olive oil, tofu, chicken, beef, broccoli, sugar snap peas, Napa cabbage, Chinese chives, shaoxing wine, pasta water, rice wine, red chilli paste, mirin, chilli-garlic paste, light and dark soy sauces, white pepper, snow peas |
| Preparation tips | Slice mushrooms thickly, do not wash mushrooms, cook mushrooms until liquid evaporates, cook noodles al dente, blanch noodles in hot water to soften them and prevent clumping |
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What You'll Learn
Lo mein recipes with mushrooms
Lo mein is a versatile dish that can be made with a variety of ingredients, including mushrooms. Here are some recipes for lo mein with mushrooms that you can try:
Vegetable Lo Mein with Cabbage and Mushrooms
This recipe from Hip Foodie Mom is a vegetarian take on lo mein that features cabbage and mushrooms as the main ingredients. Here's what you need to do:
- If using fresh lo mein noodles, cook them al dente or under beforehand.
- Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add onions and sauté for a few minutes, then add garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Add carrots and cabbage, along with another tablespoon of vegetable oil, and cook for a few minutes.
- Add in the mushrooms and continue cooking for about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Pour in shaoxing wine and toss.
- Add in the cooked noodles and 2 tablespoons of pasta water, tossing everything together.
- Season with dark soy sauce, light soy sauce, hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and salt to taste.
Lo Mein with Mushrooms and Snow Peas
This recipe by Grace Parisi, a former senior test kitchen editor for Food & Wine, features shiitake mushrooms and snow peas. Here's how to make it:
- Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil.
- In a small bowl, combine chicken broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and chile sauce.
- Add linguine to the boiling water and cook until al dente, about 3 minutes. Then, drain and rinse the noodles briefly.
- In a large nonstick skillet, heat vegetable oil.
- Add the mushrooms and cook over high heat, stirring occasionally, until tender and browned, about 5 minutes.
- Optionally, add shredded chicken for a more substantial dish.
Umami Mushroom Lo Mein
This recipe from Martha's Vineyard Magazine features a generous amount of mushrooms and a flavourful sauce. Here's the recipe:
- Slice about 5 cups of mushrooms thickly (cut them in half first if they are large).
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add lo mein noodles and cook until just tender, about 3 minutes. Then, drain, rinse, and let them dry.
- Toss the noodles with salt and sesame oil.
- In a glass measuring cup, whisk together tamari, hoisin, oyster sauce, mirin, chili-garlic paste, ½ cup of water, and more sesame oil.
- Cook the mushrooms in a skillet until they soften and brown.
- Remove the skillet from the heat, stir in chopped herbs, and transfer to serving bowls.
- Garnish with additional herbs.
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Types of mushrooms used in lo mein
Lo mein is a Chinese noodle dish that has become a staple at Chinese restaurants in the United States. It is typically made with thick, fresh egg noodles, vegetables, and a variety of proteins. While the vegetables in lo mein can vary, mushrooms are a popular option and can be used to create a hearty vegetarian version of the dish.
There are several types of mushrooms that can be used in lo mein, and the choice often depends on personal preference and availability. Here are some of the most commonly used mushrooms in lo mein:
- Shiitake Mushrooms: Shiitake mushrooms are a popular choice for lo mein as they add heft and a meaty texture to the dish. They are known for their umami flavor and can be cooked until tender and browned to enhance their taste.
- Cremini Mushrooms: Cremini mushrooms, also known as baby bella mushrooms, are a versatile variety that can be used fresh or dried in lo mein. They have a mild flavor and a soft texture, making them a good option for absorbing the flavors of the other ingredients.
- Oyster Mushrooms: While not specifically mentioned in the sources, oyster mushrooms are a common variety used in cooking and could be a suitable option for lo mein. They have a delicate texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor that can enhance the dish.
- Mixed Mushrooms: Some recipes call for a mix of different mushroom varieties to enhance the flavor and texture of the lo mein. This can include a combination of shiitake, cremini, oyster, and other wild or cultivated mushrooms, adding depth and variety to the dish.
When preparing mushrooms for lo mein, it is recommended to slice them thickly or cut them into halves if they are large. Slicing them this way ensures they hold their shape and provides a satisfying bite. Additionally, browning the mushrooms well adds a richer flavor to the dish.
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Preparing mushrooms for lo mein
Lo mein is a versatile dish that can be made with a variety of ingredients, including mushrooms. Here are some tips for preparing mushrooms specifically for lo mein:
Choosing the Right Mushrooms
Start by selecting the right type of mushrooms for your dish. Common varieties used in lo mein include shiitake, oyster, king trumpet, cremini, and white button mushrooms. You can use just one type or a mix of different mushrooms to add texture and flavor to your dish.
Cleaning and Preparing the Mushrooms
When it comes to cleaning mushrooms, some people prefer to avoid washing them directly under running water, as they tend to absorb water easily. Instead, use a damp cloth or a pastry brush to gently remove any visible dirt from the surface of the mushrooms. If the mushrooms are particularly dirty, you can quickly rinse them in a colander and then pat them dry with a clean cloth or paper towel.
Once cleaned, thickly slice the mushrooms. If you are using larger mushrooms, cut them in half first and then slice them. Aim for about 5 cups of sliced mushrooms, which should weigh around 11 to 12 ounces.
Cooking the Mushrooms
Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a wok or a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions and sauté for a few minutes before adding garlic and continuing to sauté for another minute. Then, add your sliced mushrooms and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes. You can also add other vegetables like carrots and cabbage during this step. The mushrooms will first release their moisture and then start to brown, developing a richer flavor. Stir the mushrooms occasionally to ensure even cooking. Aim for tender, lightly browned mushrooms.
Seasoning and Flavoring
To enhance the flavor of your mushrooms, season them with soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and chili sauce or chili-garlic paste. You can also add ginger and garlic to boost the umami flavor of the dish. Mix and toss the ingredients together, tasting and adjusting the seasoning as needed.
Combining with Noodles
Finally, combine your prepared mushrooms with cooked lo mein noodles. Fresh lo mein noodles should be cooked al dente or slightly under, as they will continue cooking when added to the wok. Toss the noodles with the mushrooms and vegetables, adding a small amount of pasta water if needed to help everything come together.
By following these steps, you can create a delicious and flavorful mushroom lo mein, customizing the ingredients to your taste preferences. Enjoy experimenting with different types of mushrooms and seasonings to make your unique version of this versatile dish!
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Other ingredients in mushroom lo mein
Lo mein is a versatile dish, and while mushrooms are a popular ingredient, they are not the only vegetable that can be added. The beauty of lo mein is that you can add a variety of other ingredients to create a flavoursome dish. Here are some other ingredients that can be used in mushroom lo mein:
Noodles
The type of noodle used in lo mein is important. Chinese egg noodles are often considered the best option, but dried linguine or udon noodles can also be used. Fresh egg noodles are not usually recommended as they are too delicate for the sauce. It is also important not to overcook the noodles, as they will continue to cook once added to the wok.
Vegetables
Mushroom lo mein can include a variety of vegetables. Onions, garlic, carrots, and cabbage are commonly used, with some recipes also including snow peas. The vegetables are typically sautéed in vegetable oil before being added to the noodles.
Meat
While lo mein can be a vegetarian dish, meat can also be added. Shredded or cooked chicken is a popular option, but beef can also be used, as seen in a recipe for beef with broccoli, which could be adapted to include mushrooms.
Sauce
The sauce is a key component of lo mein, and there are several variations. A simple sauce might include soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil, while a more complex sauce could include chicken broth, chile sauce, mirin, chilli-garlic paste, and hoisin sauce. The sauce is typically added to the noodles after they have been cooked, along with a variety of herbs such as cilantro, mint, and basil.
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Cooking instructions for mushroom lo mein
Lo mein is a quick, tasty, and healthy dish that can be prepared in just 15 minutes. This vegetarian dish can be made with various vegetables, sauces, and noodles of your choice. Here is a detailed recipe for mushroom lo mein.
Ingredients
- Chinese egg noodles (lo mein) or fresh linguine or spaghetti
- Mushrooms (Shiitake) or Cremini
- Vegetable oil
- Onions
- Garlic
- Carrots
- Cabbage
- Shaoxing wine
- Soy sauce
- Oyster sauce
- Sugar
- Salt
- Cilantro
- Mint
- Basil or Thai basil
- Chicken broth
- Sesame oil
- Chile sauce
- Hoisin sauce
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the lo mein noodles and cook until just tender, about 3 minutes. Fresh lo mein noodles should be cooked al dente or under as they will be cooked again in the wok.
- Drain the noodles in a colander, rinse briefly, and let them dry.
- Transfer the noodles to a bowl and toss with a pinch of salt and sesame oil.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the tamari, hoisin, oyster sauce, mirin, chili-garlic paste, water, and sesame oil.
- Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the onions and sauté for a few minutes.
- Put in the garlic and continue to sauté for another minute.
- Add the carrots and cabbage, along with another tablespoon of vegetable oil, and cook for a few minutes.
- Toss in the mushrooms and continue cooking until the mushrooms are tender and browned, about 2 to 5 minutes.
- Pour in the shaoxing wine and toss.
- Add the cooked noodles and pasta water, and toss again.
- Pour in the sauce and mix well.
- Adjust the taste by adding soy sauce, hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and salt as needed.
- Remove the skillet from the heat, stir in chopped herbs, and transfer to a serving platter or bowl.
- Garnish with the remaining herbs.
You can also add chicken or beef to make the dish more substantial. Enjoy your homemade mushroom lo mein!
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Frequently asked questions
Lo Mein is a Chinese dish made of egg noodles, vegetables, and a protein of choice.
No, Lo Mein does not always come with mushrooms. However, there are many recipes for Lo Mein that include mushrooms.
Some recipes for Lo Mein with mushrooms include Vegetable Lo Mein with Cabbage and Mushrooms, Spicy Sesame Mushroom Lo Mein, and Mushroom and Scallion Lo Mein.
Different types of mushrooms can be used in Lo Mein, including shiitake, oyster, king trumpet, cremini, and white button mushrooms.
