Lo Mein Noodles are made from wheat flour and are prevalent noodles in American-Chinese restaurants. These noodles are typically served as street food or as an appetizer before a meal in China.
They’re usually eaten with chopsticks, but they’re also sometimes used as an edible spoon in stir-fries. They are pretty long. Lo Mein Noodles come in various flavors, but the most common start with vegetables and meat stir-fried in a wok or sauté pan.
Lo Mein Noodles make for a versatile ingredient used in both side dishes and as part of the main course. They can be served hot or cold and in many different ways.
If you are a Lo Mein noodle enthusiast, it can be disheartening when your favorite noodle is out of stock. However, here are 6 Lo Mein Noodles substitutes that will stand in perfectly to surprise and delight your friends and family.
Substitutes for Lo Mein Noodles
1. Chow Mein Noodles
As a substitute for Lo Mein Noodles, chow mein noodles are excellent. Chow mein noodles can be combined with various vegetables and meat or seafood in any appropriate dish. You don’t need any fancy ingredients to whip up a tasty bowl of chow mein noodles.
This noodle variety is commonly used to make the famous Chinese chow mein dish. The popular dish includes stir-fried vegetables and lean strips of meat. And the most common meats used are chicken, pork, and beef.
Chow mein noodles can be boiled and sautéed in soy or chili sauce. Or you can deep fry and season them for a crisp snack.
2. Ramen Noodles
One of the best Lo Mein Noodles substitutes is ramen noodles. In fact, ramen noodles are thicker than Lo Mein noodles and can soak up more flavors from your dish.
As such, ramen noodles can be more flavorful and versatile than Lo Mein Noodles. And because ramen noodles can be prepared in various ways, you can tailor the dish to suit your preferences.
Even though they originated in Japan, ramen noodles are popular worldwide. And you’ll find them fairly easily in most grocery stores.
3. Chop Suey Noodles
Chop suey noodles are a common substitute for Lo Mein Noodles. Both types of noodles are made from wheat flour, water, and salt. However, chop suey noodles are typically thinner and less chewy than Lo Mein Noodles.
In addition, chop suey noodles are usually cut into shorter lengths, making them easier to eat with chopsticks. While Lo Mein Noodles can be used in chop suey dishes, they are not as commonly used because they can be more challenging to eat.
4. Udon Noodles
Another one of the ideal Lo Mein Noodles substitutes is udon noodles. They’re comparable in flavor and texture, and you can use them in many of the same recipes.
They are thicker and more stable when cooked than Lo Mein Noodles. You may cook udon noodles in a variety of ways. Soups, broths, and various vegetable dishes all benefit from their inclusion.
Most grocery stores stock udon noodles. International and Asian sections are where you’ll find them. They are also often available from specialty stores and online suppliers. Make sure you choose the right type of udon noodles for your recipe. There are many options out there in terms of shape and size.
5. Soba Noodles
Try soba noodles instead if you’ve run out of Lo Mein Noodles. Buckwheat flour is used instead of wheat flour, making them gluten-free. This also gives them an excellent but slightly different texture and flavor. Soba noodles are also a fantastic source of protein and fiber. That means they’re a healthy option for those on a low-carb diet.
6. Vermicelli Noodles
If egg noodles aren’t your thing, here’s another choice for you. Water and durum semolina are combined to make vermicelli noodles. The noodles are long and thin, about 1/8th of an inch in diameter. As such, vermicelli noodles are quick and easy to cook and can be boiled or stir-fried.
Vermicelli noodles usually absorb the flavors of the different ingredients they’re combined with. The most commonly added vegetables are onions, carrots, beans, broccoli, sprouts, and cabbage. But they’re so versatile that you could likely incorporate them into any dish Lo Mein Noodles would be used for. If desired, you can also add different types of meat to the dish.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there is always an option when in need of Lo Mein Noodles substitutes. Although they might not all deliver the same taste, flavor, or aroma, they’re sure to complete your meal perfectly. Who knows, you might even discover a new favorite.