Lo Mein or Chow Mein Noodles
Lo Mein and Chow Mein are popular Chinese-American noodle dishes featuring wheat noodles stir-fried with vegetables and protein like chicken, beef, or tofu. Lo Mein noodles are soft and tossed in a savory sauce, while Chow Mein noodles are crispier and fried. They are staple dishes in Chinese cuisine and Chinese-American takeout.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
These noodle dishes are high in carbohydrates from the wheat noodles, with moderate protein from the added meats or tofu and fat from the stir-frying oil. A typical serving provides around 400-600 calories, along with some iron and B vitamins from the noodles and vegetables.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 10 g |
| Carbs | 55 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
| Iron | 3.5 mg |
| Potassium | 200 mg |
| Selenium | 25 mcg |
| Thiamin (B1) | 0.4 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 5 mg |
| Folate | 120 mcg |
| Manganese | 0.8 mg |
| Phosphorus | 150 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
The distinction between Lo Mein (tossed) and Chow Mein (fried) highlights the importance of texture in Chinese culinary traditions. Nutritionally, they can be balanced meals when loaded with vegetables, but often become high-calorie comfort foods in restaurant preparations.
