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Healthy Beef Chow Mein Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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