Stir-Fried Noodles with Bean Sprouts
Stir-Fried Noodles with Bean Sprouts, known as 'Chow Mein' in many Western contexts or simply as a classic Chinese home-style stir-fry, is a quick and flavorful dish. It typically features wheat or egg noodles tossed in a savory sauce with crisp bean sprouts, and often includes vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and green onions, along with optional protein such as pork, chicken, or tofu. This dish is a staple in Chinese cuisine, particularly popular in northern and eastern regions, and is celebrated for its satisfying texture and adaptability.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is generally high in carbohydrates from the noodles, with a moderate amount of fat from the cooking oil and any added protein. It provides key nutrients like fiber and vitamins from the bean sprouts and vegetables, and a typical serving contains roughly 300-500 calories, depending on portion size and ingredients used.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbs | 50 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
| Potassium | 350 mg |
| Iron | 3 mg |
| Calcium | 80 mg |
| Vitamin C | 10 mg |
| Vitamin A | 150 IU |
| Magnesium | 40 mg |
| Phosphorus | 120 mg |
| Folate | 60 mcg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, this dish is a symbol of everyday comfort food in China, often adapted to use whatever ingredients are on hand, reflecting a philosophy of frugality and resourcefulness. Nutritionally, the bean sprouts add a fresh, crunchy contrast and are a good source of vitamin C and folate, making the dish a balanced blend of textures and nutrients.
