Healthy Beef Chow Mein Recipe

Introduction

This healthy beef chow mein is a delicious, quick stir-fry packed with lean protein and colorful vegetables. Using wholemeal noodles and a light sauce, it’s a satisfying meal that comes together in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 wholemeal noodle nests (85g)
• 2 tsp rapeseed or sesame oil
• 200g lean fillet steak, fat removed and cut into strips
• 1 small red onion (100g), finely chopped
• 15g piece of ginger, peeled and finely chopped
• 160g chestnut mushrooms, thickly sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 160g ready-to-eat beansprouts
• 1½ tsp tamari
• 1 tbsp brown rice vinegar
• 4 spring onions (65g), cut into diagonal lengths

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the wholemeal noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: Heat 1 teaspoon of oil in a wok over high heat. Stir-fry the beef strips for about 30 seconds until browned. Remove the beef and set aside on a plate.
3. Step 3: Add the remaining oil to the wok. Stir-fry the red onion and ginger until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Add a splash of water if needed to prevent burning and cook covered.
4. Step 4: Stir in the mushrooms and garlic, cooking for around 3 minutes until the mushrooms soften.
5. Step 5: Add the beansprouts and cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is piping hot.
6. Step 6: Mix tamari, brown rice vinegar, and 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl.
7. Step 7: Add the drained noodles back to the wok and toss well. Pour in the tamari mixture, then add the spring onions and cooked beef.
8. Step 8: Stir-fry for a few minutes until everything is heated through. Season with plenty of black pepper and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• Use sesame oil for a nuttier flavor or rapeseed oil for a milder taste.
• Swap fillet steak for lean chicken or tofu to suit different diets.
• Add other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch and color.
• For a gluten-free option, ensure your tamari is certified gluten-free.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a wok or microwave until piping hot, adding a splash of water if the noodles feel dry.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of noodles for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute wholemeal noodles with rice noodles, egg noodles, or soba noodles according to your preference.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add fresh sliced chili, a pinch of chili flakes, or a splash of chili oil during the stir-frying steps to increase the heat level.

Healthy Beef Chow Mein Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 126 reviews

A vibrant and healthy twist on classic chow mein using wholemeal noodles and lean beef fillet, packed with fresh vegetables and a flavorful tamari and vinegar sauce. This quick stir-fried dish is perfect for a nutritious weeknight meal that’s both satisfying and light.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Asian
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Noodles and Beef

• 2 wholemeal noodle nests (85g)
• 2 tsp rapeseed or sesame oil, divided
• 200g lean fillet steak, fat removed and cut into strips

Vegetables and Aromatics

• 1 small red onion (100g), finely chopped
• 15g piece of ginger, peeled and finely chopped
• 160g chestnut mushrooms, thickly sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 160g ready-to-eat beansprouts
• 4 spring onions (65g), cut into diagonal lengths

Sauce

• 1½ tsp tamari
• 1 tbsp brown rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp water (for mixing with tamari and vinegar)

Instructions

1. Cook the noodles: Prepare the wholemeal noodles according to the package instructions until just tender. Drain well and set aside.
2. Stir-fry the beef: Heat half of the oil (1 tsp) in a wok over high heat. Add the beef strips and stir-fry quickly for about 30 seconds until browned but still tender. Remove the beef from the wok and place it on a plate to rest.
3. Cook the onion and ginger: Add the remaining oil to the wok. Stir-fry the finely chopped red onion and ginger until softened. If necessary, add a drop of water to prevent burning. Cover and cook for 2–3 minutes to develop flavor.
4. Add mushrooms and garlic: Stir in the sliced chestnut mushrooms and chopped garlic. Continue frying for about 3 minutes until the mushrooms begin to soften.
5. Incorporate beansprouts: Add the ready-to-eat beansprouts and cook for another 1–2 minutes until everything is piping hot and well combined.
6. Prepare the sauce and combine: In a small bowl, mix the tamari, brown rice vinegar, and 2 tablespoons of water. Add the drained noodles to the wok and toss well to combine with the vegetables.
7. Finish stir-frying: Pour the tamari sauce mixture over the noodles and vegetables, then add the spring onions and reserved beef. Stir-fry for a few minutes until everything is heated through and flavors are well blended.
8. Season and serve: Season the chow mein generously with black pepper to taste. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Notes

• Use rapeseed oil for a neutral flavor or sesame oil for a nuttier aroma.
• Wholemeal noodles add extra fiber and nutrients compared to regular noodles.
• Ensure the beef is cooked quickly on high heat to keep it tender.
• Adjust tamari or vinegar quantities to suit taste preferences.
• This dish is best eaten fresh but can be reheated gently on the stovetop.

Keywords: healthy chow mein, beef chow mein, wholemeal noodles, stir fry, quick dinner, Asian beef recipe