Panda Express Chow Mein (THE BEST COPYCAT)
Ingredients
- 1 lb Chow Mein or Pancit noodle
fresh preferred
- 4 stalks celery
sliced at an angle diagonally into 1/2" pieces
- 1 white onion
sliced
- 5 cloves garlic
minced
- 1 tbsp ginger
minced
- 2 cups cabbage
sliced into ribbons
- 3 tbsp light soy sauce
low sodium
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp shaoxing wine
- 1/4 tsp white pepper
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/4 tsp msg
optional
- 1/2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
Directions
- 1
Prepare vegetables by mincing garlic and ginger, slicing white onion, cabbage, and celery. Set aside in separate bowls.
- 2
Mix sauce in a bowl by combining low sodium light soy sauce, sugar, shaoxing wine, white pepper, sesame oil, msg, cornstarch, and chicken broth.
- 3
If using chow mein noodles, blanch for 30 seconds in boiling water then drain and pat dry. If using fresh pancit noodles, separate noodles and set aside.
- 4
Add 2 tbsp of neutral oil over high heat to a wok or pan and saute garlic and ginger for 30 seconds. Add vegetables and stir fry for 2 minutes until charred.
- 5
Add noodles and stir fry for 1-2 minutes to char noodles. Add the sauce and mix together, stir frying for an additional 2-3 minutes over high heat until the sauce has absorbed and noodles are dry. Enjoy!
Panda Express Chow Mein (THE BEST COPYCAT)
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About this Recipe
Craving that irresistible, savory goodness of Panda Express Chow Mein but want it even better from your own kitchen? This copycat recipe delivers, bringing authentic flavors and textures right to your table for a truly satisfying side dish.
Why This Chow Mein Is THE BEST Copycat
What makes this recipe stand out is its commitment to flavor. We've taken the familiar simplicity of a classic noodle dish and upgraded the flavor category, ensuring every bite is richer and more nuanced than your average takeout. It’s designed to be even BETTER than the original, with thoughtful ingredient choices that elevate the overall taste experience.
What to Expect
Prepare for a delightful medley of textures and tastes. You'll discover perfectly tender chow mein or pancit noodles, enveloped in a savory sauce that boasts depth from light soy sauce and shaoxing wine. The fresh celery, white onion, and cabbage are sliced to provide just the right amount of crisp-tender bite, contrasting beautifully with the softness of the noodles. Aromatic garlic and ginger underpin the entire dish, creating a fragrant foundation that makes it truly addictive. This is a wonderfully balanced side that will quickly become a household favorite.
Customization & Variations
This chow mein is incredibly versatile, making it easy to adapt to your pantry or dietary needs. You can swap the white onion for yellow or red onion for a slightly different sweetness. While shaoxing wine contributes a unique depth, a dry sherry or even a splash of rice vinegar with a pinch of sugar can be used in a pinch. The MSG is entirely optional, but it's the secret weapon for that signature umami boost found in many restaurant-style dishes. Feel free to adjust the amount of light soy sauce to your preference.
Serving & Context
This incredible chow mein is a versatile side dish that pairs wonderfully with virtually any main course. Serve it alongside your favorite stir-fries, grilled meats, or roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.