Healthy Beef Chow Mein Recipe

Introduction

This healthy beef chow mein is a quick and satisfying stir-fry packed with lean steak, wholemeal noodles, and fresh vegetables. It’s a nutritious twist on a classic favorite, perfect for a flavorful 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 noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: Heat half of the oil in a wok over high heat. Stir-fry the beef strips for about 30 seconds until browned. Remove from the wok and set aside on a plate.
3. Step 3: Add the remaining oil to the wok. Stir-fry the chopped onion and ginger until softened, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent burning. Cover and cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Step 4: Add the mushrooms and garlic to the wok. Fry for around 3 minutes until the mushrooms begin to soften.
5. Step 5: Stir in the beansprouts and cook for another 1-2 minutes until they are piping hot.
6. Step 6: In a small bowl, mix the tamari, brown rice vinegar, and 2 tablespoons of water.
7. Step 7: Add the drained noodles back into the wok and toss well. Pour in the tamari mixture, then add the spring onions and cooked beef.
8. Step 8: Stir-fry everything together for a few minutes until heated through. Season with plenty of black pepper and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crunch, add sliced bell peppers or shredded carrots along with the mushrooms.
• Use chicken or tofu as substitutes for beef to suit your preference.
• If tamari is unavailable, soy sauce can be used but adjust the saltiness accordingly.
• Cook the beef briefly to keep it tender and avoid overcooking.

Storage

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

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular noodles instead of wholemeal?

Yes, regular noodles work well if you prefer a softer texture or different flavor, though wholemeal adds more fiber and nutrients.

What can I do if I don’t have a wok?

A large frying pan or skillet will work fine; just make sure it’s hot enough for quick stir-frying to keep the ingredients crisp and flavorful.

Healthy Beef Chow Mein Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 697 reviews

A wholesome and flavorful healthy beef chow mein featuring wholemeal noodles, lean fillet steak, and a colorful mix of vegetables stir-fried with tamari and brown rice vinegar for a light yet satisfying meal.

• Author: Cleo
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Asian
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Noodles and Meat

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

Vegetables & 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 & Seasoning

• 1½ tsp tamari
• 1 tbsp brown rice vinegar
• 2 tbsp water (for sauce mixture)
• Black pepper, to season

Instructions

1. Cook the Noodles: Prepare the wholemeal noodle nests according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
2. Stir-fry the Beef: Heat 1 tsp of the oil in a wok over high heat. Stir-fry the lean fillet steak strips for about 30 seconds until browned. Remove the beef from the wok, place on a plate and set aside.
3. Sauté Onion and Ginger: Add the remaining 1 tsp of oil to the wok. Stir-fry the finely chopped red onion and ginger until softened. To prevent burning, add a drop of water if necessary and cook covered for 2 to 3 minutes.
4. Cook Mushrooms and Garlic: Stir in the chestnut mushrooms and finely chopped garlic. Continue frying for about 3 minutes until the mushrooms start to soften.
5. Add Beansprouts: Add the ready-to-eat beansprouts and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until piping hot.
6. Prepare 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 with the vegetables.
7. Add Sauce, Spring Onions, and Beef: Pour the tamari mixture over the noodles, stir in the spring onions and the browned beef strips. Stir-fry everything together for a few minutes until heated through.
8. Season and Serve: Season with plenty of freshly ground black pepper to taste and serve immediately.

Notes

• Use wholemeal noodles for added fiber and a healthier alternative to white noodles.
• Rapeseed or sesame oil adds subtle flavors and are good for high-heat stir-frying.
• Adding a drop of water during onion and ginger cooking prevents sticking and burning without adding more oil.
• Tamar is a gluten-free soy sauce alternative; adjust if you prefer a less salty option.
• Ensure beef is cooked quickly over high heat to keep it tender and juicy.

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