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Quick Soy Sauce Pan Fried Noodles

A close-up shot of a plate piled high with savory fried noodles mixed with bright orange carrots and green cabbage.

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Make savory, restaurant-quality pan fried noodles at home in under 15 minutes using basic pantry staples. This simple stir-fry recipe is perfect for a fast weeknight dinner or quick lunch.

Ingredients

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  • 1 pound fresh or dried lo mein noodles
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 cup shredded cabbage
  • 1/2 cup sliced carrots
  • 2 green onions, sliced (white and green parts separated)
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (use low sodium if preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for richer flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon sugar
  • Pinch of white pepper

Instructions

  1. Cook the noodles according to package directions until just tender. Drain them well and toss with 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
  2. Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
  3. Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and the white parts of the green onions. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add the cabbage and carrots to the wok. Stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften slightly.
  5. Add the cooked noodles to the wok. Pour the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, sugar, and white pepper over the noodles.
  6. Toss everything together quickly and constantly for 2 to 4 minutes until the noodles are evenly coated and heated through. You want the noodles to get slightly seared for the best flavor.
  7. Stir in the green parts of the green onions. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  8. Serve your homemade takeout noodles immediately.

Notes

  • For a complete meal, add 1 cup of cooked, sliced chicken, shrimp, or tofu during step 4 when you add the vegetables.
  • If you do not have fresh noodles, use dried lo mein or spaghetti noodles, but adjust cooking time as necessary.
  • To achieve that authentic wok flavor, cook the noodles over high heat and do not overcrowd the pan.

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