Chow Mein

Chow Mein is a classic Chinese stir-fried noodle dish, featuring wheat noodles tossed with a savory sauce and a colorful mix of vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and celery, often with a protein like chicken, beef, or shrimp. The name literally translates to 'stir-fried noodles,' highlighting its essential cooking method.

🍳 View the full Chow Mein recipe →

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is typically a balanced source of carbohydrates from the noodles, with moderate protein if meat or tofu is included, and can vary in fat content depending on the amount of oil used in stir-frying. A standard restaurant serving generally ranges from 400 to 600 calories.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	350 kcal
Protein	12 g
Carbs	45 g
Fat	14 g
Fiber	3 g
Sugar	4 g
Sodium	900 mg
Potassium	250 mg
Iron	3.5 mg
Calcium	45 mg
Vitamin A	80 µg
Vitamin C	8 mg
Niacin (B3)	4 mg
Selenium	18 µg
Phosphorus	150 mg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Chow Mein's texture is its signature feature, aiming for a perfect balance between soft and chewy noodles with slightly crispy edges from the high-heat wok. It's a globally beloved dish that has been creatively adapted into countless regional variations, from the softer, gravy-like Cantonese style to the drier, crispier American takeout version.