Beef chow mein – great mince/ground beef recipe! Here’s a great beef mince recipe for you that’s quick to make, economical and full of hidden vegetables so it’s a complete meal – Beef Chow Mein! It’s the beef version of everybody’s favourite Chicken Chow Mein, made with the convenience of ground beef.

 

Beef chow mein

Here’s something new to try with that packet of beef mince you throw into your shopping cart every week! The beef is stir fried with chow mein sauce until it’s beautifully caramelised then tossed in a tangle of noodles and vegetables.

A neat trick in today’s recipe is to scramble up an egg with the beef. It makes the beef bits stick to the noodles better, with the added bonus of upping the protein.

Another bonus: chow mein actually has a vast amount of noodle-shaped vegetables hidden in the noodles. A carrot, 2 heaped cups of cabbage and a heaped cup of bean sprouts. That’s a good veg serving for a meal!

What you need

Here’s what you need to make this:

Noodles & add-ins

• Noodles – Chow mein noodles are sort of dry and crinkly, rather than oily and straight like hokkien noodles, lo mein noodles. But this dish can really be made with any noodles – or even spaghetti (yes really, who’s going to know once tossed in chow mein sauce??). Use the same weight.

• Garlic – Rarely do Asian stir fries happen without garlic, and this one is no exception!

• Beef mince – That’s ground beef to Americans. Any fat % is fine here though lean beef won’t caramelise quite as well.

  Other proteins – Any other mince will work just fine here. Chicken, pork, turkey, even lamb! Though bear in mind the sauce is quite intense flavoured to suit the beefy flavour of beef, so you won’t taste the flavour of white meats through the sauce.

• Egg – We use this to scramble into the beef. Neat trick to make the beef stick to the noodles better with the added bonus of a free protein boost!

• Green cabbage – Or Chinese cabbage. Finely sliced so it disappears into the tangle of noodles.

• Bean sprouts – Excellent grab-and-throw-in vegetable option! STORAGE TIP: Keep bean sprouts in water in an airtight container. Change the water every couple of days. This will increase the shelf life of beansprouts 3x.

• Carrot – Cut into thin batons. More noodle shaped vegetables so it all jumbles up together!

• Green onion – We use 3 whole stems here. They are the onion in this dish, as well as some fresh green colour.

Chow Mein Sauce

The combination of sauces used in Chow Mein is common in Chinese dishes.

• Soy sauces – We’re using both light and dark soy sauce in this recipe. What’s the difference? Dark soy stains the noodles a lovely warm mahogany colour as well as adding soy flavour. Light soy sauce provides the salt without overwhelming with soy flavour, and does not stain the rice. 

  Substitutions -You can use only light soy sauce or just an all-purpose soy sauce (ie bottle just labelled “soy sauce” without “light” or “dark” in front of it) instead of dark soy sauce. But you cannot use only dark soy sauce as the flavour is too strong! More on different types of soy sauces here.

• Oyster sauce – A load of flavour, all in one sauce! It’s sweet and savoury and adds a neat flavour shortcut in dishes. Makes a regular appearance in Asian dishes, from Pad See Ew to Asian Glazed Salmon to Honey Pepper Beef to Supreme Soy Noodles. And Steamed Asian Greens with Oyster Sauce!

  Vegetarian oyster sauce is available these days, at Asian stores and some large grocery stores (Australia – there’s Ayam vegetarian oyster sauce at Woolies). Otherwise, hoisin is a good alternative. Slightly different flavour profile (hint of Chinese five spice) but similar savoury / sweetness.

• Chinese cooking wine (Shaoxing wine) is an essential ingredient for making truly “restaurant tasting” Chinese dishes. Without it, the dish will be lacking something. Substitute with Mirin, cooking sake or dry sherry. 

  Non alcoholic sub – sub both the cooking wine and water with low sodium chicken broth/stock.

• Cornflour / cornstarch (left out of photo – oops!) – For thickening the sauce so it clings to the noodles. It also makes the sauce lovely and glossy.

• White pepper and sugar – For seasoning.

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How to make Beef Chow Mein

Be sure to cook the beef well once you add the sauce to get it really nicely caramelised, for a free flavour boost!

1. Sauce & thickener

1. Sauce – Mix the soy sauces, oyster sauce, Chinese cooking wine, sugar and pepper in a small bowl. We’re going to use some to flavour the beef, then we will mix the rest with the sauce thickener (next step) to make the noodle sauce.

2. Sauce thickener (cornflour slurry) – Mix the cornflour / cornstarch and water in a separate small bowl. This is what thickens the sauce so it coats the noodles, as well as making it shiny and glossy.

2. Making the stir fried noodles

1. Prepare the noodles per the packet directions then drain. I usually get the water boiling while I’m prepping the vegetables then cook the noodles when I start cooking. The chow mein noodles I get just call for soaking in hot water for 3 minutes. Some brands need to be boiled.

2. Caramelise beef – Using a large non-stick pan, cook the garlic first to flavour the oil. Then cook the beef, breaking it up as you go, until you can no longer see raw beef.

   Then add the white part of the green onions and 1 1/2 tablespoons of the Sauce. We add the white part of the green onions first as it takes longer than the green part. Cook for another 2 minutes to get the beef nicely caramelised.

3. Finish sauce – Meanwhile, mix the cornflour slurry into the remaining sauce.

4. Scramble egg – Add the egg into the pan then mix it through the beef, it will sort of scramble into the mixture. This is what makes beef stick to the noodles better!

5. Keep cooking! – When the egg is mostly cooked, add the carrot and cabbage. Cook for 1 minute until cabbage starts to wilt.

6. Sauce & noodles – Give the sauce a quick mix. Add the bean sprouts, noodles and sauce into the pan. Toss well for 1 minute or until sauce is dispersed through the noodles. Add green part of green onions. Toss for another 1 minute, then serve!

So there you go! Stir fried noodles for dinner, relatively low effort and quick to make. Great way to get a noodle fix, very economical, and highly versatile – switch out the vegetables and proteins with what you’ve got or what you love.

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Char Siu: Cantonese-Style Barbecued Pork - Cooking Method Char Siu is a popular Cantonese-style barbecued pork dish known for its sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. The cooking process involves marinating the pork and then roasting it, often over an open flame or in an oven. The result is tender, juicy pork with a slightly caramelized, crispy exterior and a distinctive red hue. Here’s a detailed look at the traditional cooking method for Char Siu.

Choosing the Right Cut of Pork

The first step in preparing Char Siu is selecting the right cut of pork. Traditionally, pork shoulder or pork tenderloin is used. These cuts are chosen for their balance of meat and fat, which allows the pork to remain tender and juicy during the cooking process. Pork belly, which is fattier, is also a popular choice for its richness. The pork is usually sliced into long strips, which allows for even marination and cooking.

Preparing the Marinade

The marinade is the key to achieving Char Siu’s distinctive flavor. A combination of sweet, savory, and aromatic ingredients gives the pork its signature taste and vibrant color. The basic ingredients for the marinade include:

Soy Sauce: Provides saltiness and depth of flavor.

Hoisin Sauce: Adds sweetness and umami.

Chinese Five-Spice Powder: A blend of star anise, cloves, cinnamon, fennel, and Sichuan peppercorns, giving a fragrant, spicy kick.

Honey or Maltose: Enhances sweetness and helps create the caramelized crust.

Red Fermented Bean Curd: Gives the pork its characteristic red color and a slightly tangy flavor.

Garlic and Ginger: Add extra depth and fragrance to the marinade.

Mixing these ingredients into a smooth paste creates a flavorful marinade that will coat the pork and infuse it with all the delicious flavors.

Marinating the Pork

Once the pork is prepared, it is coated generously with the marinade. The pork strips should be thoroughly covered, and it is best to marinate the pork for several hours, ideally overnight. The longer the pork sits in the marinade, the more intense the flavor will be. During marination, the pork absorbs the seasonings, and the sugars in the honey or maltose start to break down, preparing the meat for a rich, golden-brown glaze when cooked.

Cooking the Char Siu

Char Siu can be cooked using a few different methods, depending on the cook’s preference or the equipment available. The most traditional methods involve either grilling over an open flame or roasting in an oven.

Grilling (Traditional Method): In traditional Cantonese cooking, the marinated pork is skewered onto long forks or bamboo sticks and roasted over an open flame or on a charcoal grill. The open flame provides a smoky flavor and creates the characteristic crispy exterior of the Char Siu. The pork is rotated regularly to ensure even cooking. This method also allows the marinade to caramelize, giving the pork its glossy, reddish-brown finish.

Oven Roasting: If grilling is not possible, the pork can be roasted in an oven. Preheat the oven to around 375°F (190°C). Place the marinated pork on a wire rack set over a baking tray to catch any drippings. The pork is then baked for about 25-30 minutes, or until it is cooked through and the exterior is crispy. Halfway through cooking, the pork is brushed with additional marinade or a honey glaze to enhance the flavor and create the signature shine.

Tip: To achieve a crispy texture, you can broil the pork for the last few minutes of cooking to caramelize the exterior further.

Basting for a Shiny Glaze

To achieve the glossy, caramelized finish that makes Char Siu so appealing, the pork is often basted with extra marinade or a honey-based syrup during the cooking process. This basting is usually done every 10-15 minutes. The sugars in the marinade and honey caramelize, creating a beautiful shiny coating on the pork that gives Char Siu its mouthwatering look.

Serving the Char Siu

Once the Char Siu is cooked to perfection, it is removed from the oven or grill and allowed to rest for a few minutes. This resting time helps the juices redistribute, ensuring the pork remains tender and juicy. After resting, the pork is sliced into thin pieces, typically served as part of a meal with steamed rice or noodles, or used as a filling for steamed buns (Char Siu Bao).

Conclusion

The cooking method for Char Siu is an integral part of what makes this dish so delicious. Whether cooked over an open flame or roasted in an oven, the process results in tender, flavorful pork with a crispy, sweet, and smoky exterior. The careful marination, basting, and slow cooking are what make Char Siu stand out as a dish with unforgettable flavor. The result is a delectable, caramelized pork that is a true reflection of Cantonese culinary artistry.

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Chow Mein is a popular Chinese dish made with stir-fried noodles, vegetables, and often meat or tofu. The name "Chow Mein" translates to "stir-fried noodles" in Chinese, and it is enjoyed worldwide in various forms, especially in Chinese restaurants. Here is a complete breakdown of Chow Mein:

1. Origin

• Country of Origin: China
• Meaning: The term "Chow Mein" comes from the Chinese words "chao" (炒) meaning "stir-fry" and "mein" (面) meaning "noodles."
• Culinary Influence: Chow Mein is a staple in Chinese cuisine but has spread worldwide, particularly to countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and India, where local variations exist.

2. Ingredients

Basic Ingredients:

• Noodles: The core ingredient is wheat-based noodles. You can use fresh or dried noodles. The noodles can be thin or thick, depending on the recipe.
• Vegetables: Chow Mein typically includes a mix of vegetables such as:
  • Cabbage (common)
  • Carrots
  • Bell peppers
  • Onions
  • Bean sprouts
  • Mushrooms
  • Snow peas
• Proteins: You can add proteins like:
  • Chicken (most common)
  • Beef
  • Pork
  • Shrimp
  • Tofu (for a vegetarian option)
• Seasonings:
  • Soy sauce
  • Oyster sauce
  • Sesame oil
  • Garlic
  • Ginger
  • Sugar (for slight sweetness)
  • White pepper or black pepper
  • Green onions for garnish

3. Types of Chow Mein

Crispy Chow Mein:

• In this variation, the noodles are fried separately until crispy, often served in a crispy nest shape. The stir-fry vegetables and protein are served on top, creating a contrast between crispy noodles and the tender stir-fry.

Soft Chow Mein:

• This version uses boiled noodles that are stir-fried in a pan with vegetables and meat. It has a softer, more tender texture compared to crispy Chow Mein.

American-Chinese Chow Mein:

• Commonly found in American Chinese restaurants, this version is often made with crunchy noodles, stir-fried vegetables, and protein with a sweeter sauce.

Indian Chow Mein:

• This variant has a slightly spicier taste and is often served with additional Indian ingredients such as garam masala or chili sauce.

4. Preparation Method

Basic Method:

1. Boil the Noodles: If using dried noodles, cook them according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Stir-Fry Vegetables and Protein: In a wok or large frying pan, heat some oil (vegetable or sesame oil). Stir-fry the protein (chicken, beef, tofu, etc.) until cooked. Remove and set aside.
3. Cook the Vegetables: In the same wok, add the vegetables (such as cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, and onions). Stir-fry for a few minutes until tender-crisp.
4. Combine Noodles and Sauce: Add the cooked noodles into the wok with the vegetables. Stir-fry everything together, adding soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and other seasonings as per your taste. Mix well to coat the noodles and vegetables in the sauce.
5. Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds before serving.

5. Variations

Vegetarian Chow Mein:

• Skip the meat and add more vegetables like tofu, mushrooms, and broccoli for a healthy vegetarian version.

Chow Mein with Shrimp:

• Add shrimp for a seafood twist. Shrimp cooks quickly, so it should be added towards the end of stir-frying.

Spicy Chow Mein:

• Add chili sauce, sriracha, or red pepper flakes to give the dish a spicy kick.

Chow Mein with Mushrooms:

• Add shiitake mushrooms, button mushrooms, or any preferred variety to give a rich umami flavor.

6. Health Aspects

• Nutritional Content: Chow Mein can be high in calories, especially if fried or served with lots of meat. However, you can control the calorie content by using lean meats, adding more vegetables, and using less oil or sauce.
• Low-Calorie Options: For a healthier version, use whole wheat noodles, limit the oil, and focus on vegetables for added fiber.
• Protein Source: It can be made with various proteins like tofu, chicken, or shrimp, offering different nutrient profiles.

7. Chow Mein vs. Lo Mein

Chow Mein and Lo Mein are often confused, but they are different:

• Chow Mein: The noodles are either crispy or stir-fried until slightly crispy. It has a firmer texture.
• Lo Mein: The noodles are soft and are typically boiled first, then tossed with the stir-fry ingredients and sauce.

8. Popularity and Global Influence

• United States: Chow Mein is a staple in Chinese-American cuisine and is often served as a side dish or main course at Chinese buffets or restaurants.
• India: In India, Chow Mein is a popular street food, often served with a mix of spicy vegetables, noodles, and sometimes, an Indian twist with local spices.
• United Kingdom: Similarly, Chow Mein is popular in the UK as a quick takeout meal, with variations like "Crispy Noodles" being favored.

9. Tips for the Best Chow Mein

• Use a Wok: A wok allows for quick, high-heat stir-frying, which helps achieve the crispy texture and retain the freshness of the vegetables.
• Don’t Overcook the Noodles: If you’re making soft Chow Mein, don’t overcook the noodles as they’ll become too soft and mushy when stir-fried.
• Balance the Sauce: Adjust the balance of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil according to your taste. A little sweetness from sugar or hoisin sauce can elevate the dish.
• High Heat: Stir-fry on high heat for the best texture and flavor, ensuring the ingredients are cooked quickly but remain crisp.

10. Conclusion

Chow Mein is a versatile and flavorful dish that can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Whether you prefer crispy noodles or soft ones, with chicken, shrimp, or tofu, it’s a delicious, easy-to-make meal perfect for any occasion. You can also add your own twist with spices, vegetables, or proteins to make it uniquely yours.

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Wontons: Complete Food Details Wontons are a type of Chinese dumpling made with a thin dough wrapper filled with a savory mixture, typically containing ground meat, seafood, or vegetables. They are a staple in Chinese cuisine but are also widely enjoyed in various Asian cultures with slight regional variations.

 

1. Origin and History

Wontons, known as "雲吞" (Yún tūn) in Mandarin or "揚州雲吞" (Yangzhou wonton) in some regions, originated in China during the Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD). They are most closely associated with Cantonese and Sichuan cuisines but have since spread throughout China and beyond, with different variations depending on the region.

In Cantonese, the word "wonton" is derived from "wán" (雲), meaning "cloud," and "tūn" (吞), meaning "swallow." The name likely reflects the delicate, airy texture of the dumplings, which seem to "float" when cooked in soup.

2. Ingredients

Dough Wrapper:

• Traditionally made from flour, water, salt, and sometimes egg.
• The wrapper is typically square, but it can also be round or triangular in shape.
• Thin, pliable, and slightly chewy, it holds the filling securely when folded.

Filling: The filling can vary widely, but the most common ingredients are:

• Pork: Ground pork is often the base for traditional wonton filling. Sometimes mixed with other ingredients like shrimp, beef, or chicken.
• Shrimp: A common addition, either mixed with pork or as the main protein. It’s finely chopped or minced for a smooth texture.
• Vegetables: Finely chopped ingredients like mushrooms, Chinese cabbage, or chives can be included for added flavor and texture.
• Seasoning: Soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, green onions, oyster sauce, salt, pepper, and sometimes sugar.

Some variations also use tofu, beef, or even crab meat for unique flavor profiles. There are also vegetarian versions made with mushrooms, tofu, and various vegetables.

3. Common Varieties

• Cantonese Wontons: Known for their delicate broth and a filling that combines shrimp, pork, and sometimes chives or water chestnuts. The soup is often flavored with a bit of ginger and soy sauce. Cantonese wontons are often served in a light broth and sometimes with noodles, forming a dish called "Wonton Noodle Soup."

• Sichuan Wontons: Sichuan-style wontons are known for their spicy, chili-laden sauce. The wontons are often boiled and then served with a dressing made from chili oil, soy sauce, garlic, and vinegar, topped with ground peanuts or sesame seeds for added texture.

• Shandong Wontons: These are often boiled and served in a clear broth. The filling might be more simplistic, using mostly pork and ginger.

• Fried Wontons: In this version, the wontons are filled and then deep-fried until golden and crispy. They are often served as appetizers with a sweet-and-sour or chili dipping sauce.

4. Cooking Methods

• Boiled: The most common method, especially for wonton soup. Wontons are dropped into boiling water or broth and cooked for just a few minutes until the wrapper becomes tender.

• Steamed: Some variations, especially in dim sum settings, involve steaming the wontons instead of boiling them, which gives them a softer, more delicate texture.

• Fried: Wontons can be deep-fried for a crispy texture. This method is popular for appetizers, where the wontons are crispy on the outside but soft on the inside.

• Pan-fried: Sometimes, wontons are pan-fried in a small amount of oil to create a crispy bottom while leaving the top softer and more tender.

5. Nutritional Information

Wontons are relatively moderate in calories and provide a good amount of protein, especially if filled with pork, shrimp, or other meats. However, they can be high in sodium due to the soy sauce and seasoning used in the filling and broth.

Here is an approximate breakdown for one boiled wonton (about 40g):

• Calories: 50–80 calories per piece (depends on filling and wrapper size)
• Protein: 3–4g
• Fat: 1–3g
• Carbohydrates: 8–10g
• Fiber: 0.5–1g
• Sodium: 250–500mg (higher with broth or seasoning)

The calorie count increases if the wontons are fried due to the added oil. When served with broth or noodles, the nutritional content will also vary accordingly.

6. Serving Suggestions

• Wonton Soup: This is the most popular way to serve wontons, where they are added to a hot broth made from chicken, pork, or beef. The broth is typically flavored with soy sauce, ginger, and sometimes a bit of star anise.
• Wonton Noodle Soup: A variation of wonton soup with noodles. This dish is common in Hong Kong and other Cantonese-speaking regions.
• Fried Wontons: These can be served as appetizers with a dipping sauce, often sweet-and-sour sauce or chili sauce.
• Cold Wontons: In Sichuan cuisine, wontons are often served cold with a spicy, tangy sauce made from chili oil, soy sauce, garlic, and sesame paste.

7. Variations and Global Influence

Wontons have spread to many parts of the world, and different cultures have adopted them, often modifying the fillings and the way they are served:

• Japanese Gyoza: A similar concept, but gyoza wrappers are typically thinner, and the filling often contains garlic, cabbage, and pork. Gyoza are typically pan-fried and steamed.
• Korean Mandu: While the filling and wrappers are similar, Korean mandu may include kimchi and various vegetables in the filling. They are often served in soups or steamed.
• American-Chinese Wontons: In the United States, especially in Chinese-American cuisine, wontons are often deep-fried and served as appetizers with a sweet-and-sour sauce or soy-based dipping sauces.

8. Variations in Fillings

• Pork and Shrimp: A traditional and popular filling combination, often seasoned with ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
• Pork and Chives: In some regions, chives are mixed into the filling for extra flavor.
• Beef or Chicken: Occasionally used in place of pork.
• Vegetarian Wontons: Made with mushrooms, cabbage, tofu, or a mixture of other vegetables. These are popular for vegetarians or during Buddhist fasting periods.

9. Tips for Making Wontons at Home

• Fresh vs. Store-Bought Wrappers: You can buy ready-made wonton wrappers at Asian grocery stores, or you can make your own dough at home, though it requires some skill.
• Sealing: Be sure to seal the wonton wrappers tightly to prevent the filling from escaping while cooking. A little water on the edges of the wrapper can help create a better seal.
• Filling: Don’t overstuff the wontons, as this can cause them to tear or result in uneven cooking. A small spoonful of filling is usually enough.

Conclusion

Wontons are a versatile, delicious dish that can be adapted to suit many tastes and dietary preferences. Whether served in a light broth, deep-fried, or in a spicy sauce, wontons are a beloved part of Chinese and Asian cuisine with many variations.

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