If you’re craving a dish that’s packed full of bold flavors and vibrant colors, you’ve got to try this Savory Beef Lo Mein with Vegetables Recipe. It combines tender, juicy beef with crisp, fresh vegetables and perfectly cooked noodles all coated in a rich, savory sauce that will have you coming back for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or impressing friends with an easy homemade takeout, this recipe nails the balance of satisfying textures and mouthwatering umami that makes lo mein a beloved classic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this Savory Beef Lo Mein with Vegetables Recipe just right starts with simple but essential ingredients. Each component plays a key role, from the tender beef providing hearty protein, to the colorful vegetables adding crispness and freshness, and of course the noodles soaking up all that delicious sauce.
- 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced: Choosing sirloin ensures your beef stays tender and flavorful when quickly seared.
- 8 oz lo mein noodles: These chewy noodles are the perfect base to absorb the savory sauce.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: Adds a satisfying crunch and vibrant green to the dish.
- 1 cup carrots, sliced: Sweetness and color that’s a nice contrast to the beef.
- 1 cup bell peppers (green and red), sliced: Brings brightness and a slight tangy sweetness.
- 1 small onion, sliced: Provides aroma and a mild bite to the flavor profile.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Gives the dish a punch of fragrant depth.
- 1/4 cup soy sauce: The salty backbone that ties all the flavors together.
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce: Adds richness and a subtle sweetness enhancing the beefiness.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: For that toasty, nutty finish that’s signature to Asian-inspired dishes.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Used to thicken the sauce so it perfectly coats every bite.
- 2 tablespoons water: To mix with cornstarch creating a smooth slurry.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable or olive oil: For searing the beef and stir-frying the vegetables.
How to Make Savory Beef Lo Mein with Vegetables Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by slicing the beef thinly against the grain to keep it tender when cooked. Prep all your vegetables by washing and slicing them into bite-sized pieces to ensure quick and even cooking. Getting everything ready ahead makes the cooking process smooth and fun.
Step 2: Cook the Noodles
Boil the lo mein noodles according to the package instructions until just tender. Rinse them under cold water immediately to stop the cooking and prevent sticking. Toss the noodles with just a touch of sesame oil to keep them from clumping and infuse a hint of that signature flavor.
Step 3: Sear the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of your oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Quickly sear the beef slices for about 1 to 2 minutes on each side until they develop a nice brown crust but remain juicy inside. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside to rest while you cook the vegetables.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Add more oil to your skillet if needed, then toss in the minced garlic and sliced onion. Stir-fry just until fragrant, about 30 seconds, to unlock their amazing aromas. Next, add the carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers, cooking them for 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp and brightly colored—this keeps the dish lively and fresh.
Step 5: Combine Beef, Noodles, and Sauce
Return the seared beef to your skillet with the vegetables. Add the cooked noodles along with the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and the cornstarch mixed with water to create a slurry. This combination builds the luscious, savory sauce that ties everything together perfectly.
Step 6: Toss and Thicken
Turn the heat up to high and toss everything vigorously in the skillet, stirring constantly. The sauce will begin to thicken and cling to the noodles, beef, and vegetables, coating each piece evenly in that rich flavor punch.
Step 7: Finish with Sesame Oil and Serve
Drizzle the dish with the final touch of sesame oil for a beautiful aroma and warm nuttiness. Serve your Savory Beef Lo Mein with Vegetables Recipe piping hot and watch smiles light up around the table.
How to Serve Savory Beef Lo Mein with Vegetables Recipe
Garnishes
This dish is fantastic on its own, but you can easily elevate it by sprinkling some chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds on top. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a few chili flakes can also add a pop of color and a flavor twist that makes every bite exciting.
Side Dishes
While this recipe is a satisfying main course, it pairs beautifully with light sides like steamed dumplings, a simple cucumber salad, or hot and sour soup to round out your meal for variety and added textures.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party or special occasion, serve your lo mein in individual bowls garnished with edible flowers or fresh herbs. Or try plating it alongside a small dipping dish of extra soy or chili sauce to give your guests a fun, interactive element.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Savory Beef Lo Mein with Vegetables Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days, making it a perfect make-ahead lunch or quick dinner option.
Freezing
This dish isn’t ideal for freezing as the vegetables can become mushy and the noodles lose their texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days of cooking.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to help loosen the sauce and prevent the noodles from drying out. Avoid microwaving directly without moisture as it can toughen the beef and dry the noodles.
FAQs
Can I use different types of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While sirloin works best for tenderness, flank steak or ribeye can also be great substitutes as long as you slice them thinly against the grain.
Is there a vegetarian version of this Savory Beef Lo Mein with Vegetables Recipe?
Definitely! You can swap the beef for tofu or tempeh and add mushroom varieties for an umami-rich vegetarian lo mein that’s just as delicious.
Can I prepare this dish without oyster sauce?
Yes, if you prefer to avoid oyster sauce, you can use hoisin sauce or a bit more soy sauce with a touch of sugar to mimic its sweetness and depth.
What type of noodles can I use if I don’t have lo mein noodles?
Spaghetti or linguine noodles can be used in a pinch, or you can choose other Asian-style egg noodles for similar texture and taste.
How spicy is this recipe?
This particular recipe is mild and more focused on savory flavors, but you can easily spice it up with chili flakes, sriracha, or fresh chili peppers while cooking or at the table.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Savory Beef Lo Mein with Vegetables Recipe enough for anyone wanting that perfect blend of tender beef, crispy veggies, and flavorful noodles. It’s straightforward to make, wonderfully customizable, and tastes like you’ve just ordered takeout from your favorite spot. Give it a try and enjoy a warm, comforting meal that’s truly satisfying in every bite!
Print
Savory Beef Lo Mein with Vegetables Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
This Savory Beef Lo Mein with Vegetables is a flavorful, quick, and colorful stir-fried noodle dish featuring tender slices of beef sirloin and a vibrant mix of broccoli, carrots, bell peppers, and onions. Coated in a rich soy and oyster sauce blend, this easy-to-make recipe delivers a perfect balance of savory and fresh vegetable goodness, ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Beef and Marinade
- 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
Noodles
- 8 oz lo mein noodles
Vegetables
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
- 1 cup bell peppers (green and red), sliced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauces and Oils
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable or olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Slice the beef thinly against the grain for tenderness and prepare all vegetables by slicing and chopping as directed to ensure even cooking.
- Cook Noodles: Boil the lo mein noodles according to package instructions until al dente, then rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Toss the noodles with a little sesame oil to prevent sticking.
- Sear Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the beef slices and sear for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until browned but not overcooked. Remove the beef from the pan and set aside.
- Stir-Fry Vegetables: Add additional oil to the skillet if needed. Stir-fry the minced garlic and sliced onions for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers, cooking for 3 to 4 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the seared beef to the skillet along with the cooked noodles. Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, then add the cornstarch mixed with water to form a slurry that will thicken the sauce.
- Cook and Toss: Increase heat to high and toss everything together continuously until the sauce thickens and evenly coats all the ingredients, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Finish and Serve: Drizzle with the remaining teaspoon of sesame oil for a toasted flavor. Serve the lo mein hot and enjoy a delicious homemade meal.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the beef briefly with a little soy sauce and cornstarch before cooking.
- You can substitute beef sirloin with chicken or tofu for alternative protein options.
- Adjust the amount of soy and oyster sauce according to your taste preference or dietary needs.
- Make sure to not overcook the vegetables to keep the crunch and vibrant colors.
- If you prefer a gluten-free version, use gluten-free noodles and tamari instead of soy sauce.
