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Vegan Chow Mein

This vegan chow mein is a quick, comforting stir-fry featuring chewy wheat noodles and crisp, colorful vegetables. The dish is flavored with smoky soy sauce and toasted sesame oil, resulting in glossy, tender noodles with caramelized bits and fresh crunch. It’s a nostalgic, plant-based meal that comes together fast and offers rich, savory flavors in every bite.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz wheat noodles rinsed and tossed in sesame oil to prevent sticking
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce or coconut aminos for milder flavor
  • 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil add at the end for aroma
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil for stir-frying
  • 1 cup bell peppers thinly sliced
  • 1 cup cabbage shredded
  • 3 scallions scallions chopped, for garnish
  • 1 cup tofu firm, cubed, fried until crispy
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger minced

Equipment

  • Large wok or deep skillet
  • Slotted spoon
  • Small bowl
  • Spatula

Method
 

  1. Begin by rinsing your wheat noodles under cold water, then toss them with a little sesame oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
  2. Heat your wok or skillet over medium-high heat and add vegetable oil. Once shimmering, add the sliced bell peppers and shredded cabbage. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until the vegetables start to char at the edges and become fragrant.
  3. Push the veggies to one side of the pan. In the empty space, add a bit more oil if needed, then toss in the minced garlic and ginger. Sizzle for about 30 seconds until fragrant, filling the kitchen with a warm, spicy aroma.
  4. Stir everything together, then add the drained noodles to the pan. Toss quickly to combine, cooking for 3-4 minutes until the noodles are heated through and slightly toasted, turning glossy and fragrant.
  5. Pour in the soy sauce and drizzle with toasted sesame oil. Toss vigorously to coat all ingredients evenly, allowing the flavors to meld for about 2 minutes. The noodles should look shiny, slightly sticky, with bits of caramelized veggies.
  6. Add the crispy tofu cubes and chopped scallions. Toss gently for another minute to heat through and integrate all flavors. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Remove the wok from heat and finish by drizzling a little more sesame oil over the dish. Serve immediately, garnished with extra scallions if desired. Enjoy your flavorful, comforting vegan chow mein!