Panda Express Chow Mein (THE BEST COPYCAT)

Panda Express Chow Mein (THE BEST COPYCAT)

4 servings
This is THE best Panda Express Chow Mein copycat recipe you will find that's even BETTER than the original! It's a simple noodle dish that I've upgraded in the flavor category that can be used as a side for any delicious meal!

Ingredients

  • celery

    sliced at an angle diagonally into 1/2" pieces

    4 stalk
  • white onion

    sliced into 1 inch pieces

    1
  • garlic

    minced

    5 clove
  • ginger

    minced

    1 tbsp
  • cabbage

    sliced into ribbons

    2 c
  • light soy sauce

    low sodium

    3 tbsp
  • sugar
    1 tbsp
  • shaoxing wine
    1 tbsp
  • white pepper
    ¼ tsp
  • sesame oil
    1 tsp
  • msg
    ¼ tsp
  • cornstarch
    ½ tbsp
  • chicken broth
    ¼ c
  • Chow Mein or Pancit noodle
    1 lb
  • neutral oil
    2 tbsp

Directions

  1. 1

    Prepare vegetables by slicing celery, onion, cabbage, and mincing garlic and ginger. Set the vegetables in one bowl and the garlic & ginger in a small bowl.

  2. 2

    Mix the sauce in a bowl by combining low sodium light soy sauce, sugar, shaoxing wine, white pepper, sesame oil, msg, cornstarch, and chicken broth until the sugar and cornstarch is dissolved.

  3. 3

    If using chow mein noodles, bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Blanch the chow mein noodles for 30 seconds then drain and pat dry. If using fresh pancit noodles, separate the noodles and set aside.

  4. 4

    Add 2 tbsp of neutral oil to a wok or large pan over medium high heat and saute garlic and ginger for 30 seconds. Turn the heat to high, add the celery, onion, and cabbage, and stir fry for 2 minutes until charred.

  5. 5

    Add noodles and stir fry for 1-2 minutes to char the noodles. Give the sauce a final mix to redistribute the cornstarch, then add the sauce to the pan and mix, 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)

Panda Express Chow Mein (THE BEST COPYCAT)

25 min4 servings71 cal

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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.

Frequently Asked Questions