Homemade “Chinese Takeout” Beef Lo Mein

For the Lo Mein:

  • 8 oz (about 225g) lo mein noodles or spaghetti
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium carrot, julienned
  • 1/2 bell pepper, julienned (any color)
  • 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms (optional)
  • 1/2 cup snow peas or snap peas
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Beef:

  • In a bowl, combine the sliced beef with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon cornstarch, and 1 teaspoon sesame oil. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.

2. Prepare the Sauce:

  • In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, 1 teaspoon sesame oil, and ground black pepper. Set aside.

3. Cook the Noodles:

  • Cook the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions. If using spaghetti, cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.

4. Stir-Fry the Beef:

  • Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over high heat. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry until it’s no longer pink, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.