Introduction
If you’ve ever craved a comforting, savory, and satisfying noodle dish, look no further than Shanghai Fried Noodles. A beloved classic in Chinese cuisine, Shanghai Fried Noodles are an irresistible stir-fry that combines tender noodles with crispy, caramelized edges, stir-fried vegetables, and a savory sauce. The unique flavors and textures of this dish make it a standout in both Chinese restaurants and home kitchens alike.
Shanghai Fried Noodles are a staple of Shanghai cuisine, known for their perfect balance of flavors. The dish is often made with thick, chewy wheat noodles, which hold up beautifully when stir-fried. The noodles are typically tossed in a flavorful sauce made from soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a touch of sugar, giving them a savory-sweet taste that’s hard to resist. The dish is usually served with a variety of vegetables, such as cabbage, carrots, and scallions, and can be customized with your choice of protein—be it chicken, pork, shrimp, or tofu.
In this article, we’ll explore why Shanghai Fried Noodles should be your next culinary adventure, provide step-by-step instructions for making this dish at home, and share helpful tips and variations to make the recipe your own. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Savory and Satisfying: Shanghai Fried Noodles are full of flavor, with savory soy sauce, a touch of sweetness, and a satisfying combination of textures from the noodles and vegetables.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together quickly, making it a perfect weeknight meal. With just 30 minutes of prep and cooking time, you can have a restaurant-quality dish on the table in no time.
- Customizable: Whether you’re a vegetarian or a meat-lover, this dish is easily adaptable. You can use any protein you prefer, or simply enjoy it with vegetables for a lighter option.
- One-Pan Meal: This recipe is a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze. The stir-frying process gives the noodles a beautiful, slightly crispy texture while keeping everything in one pot.
- Perfect for Leftovers: Shanghai Fried Noodles taste just as good the next day, making it a great option for meal prepping or enjoying leftovers.
Preparation Time and Servings
- Total Time: 30 minutes (10 minutes for prep, 20 minutes for stir-frying)
- Servings: This recipe serves 4 as a main dish.
- Nutrition Facts: Calories per serving: 350, Protein: 15g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 12g.
Ingredients
For the Noodles:
- 8 ounces (225g) Shanghai noodles or lo mein noodles: Shanghai noodles are thick, chewy wheat noodles that work perfectly in this dish. If you can’t find Shanghai noodles, you can substitute with other types of fresh or dried noodles, such as lo mein noodles.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Adds a delicious nutty flavor to the stir-fry.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: For stir-frying the vegetables and noodles.
For the Vegetables:
- 1 cup napa cabbage: Shredded, napa cabbage is the most common vegetable used in Shanghai Fried Noodles, providing a mild flavor and crisp texture.
- 1/2 cup carrots: Julienned or thinly sliced, carrots add color and sweetness to the dish.
- 2 green onions (scallions): Chopped into 2-inch pieces, green onions add a mild onion flavor and a nice crunch.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced, garlic adds a savory kick and depth of flavor.
Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: The base of the sauce, providing the dish with its umami-rich flavor.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Adds sweetness and complexity to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon sugar: Balances the saltiness and adds a touch of sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar: A small amount of vinegar helps brighten up the dish and balance the flavors.
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth: To create a bit of sauce that coats the noodles. You can use water if you don’t have broth on hand.
- Optional: 1 teaspoon chili paste or Sriracha sauce for a spicy kick.
For the Protein (Optional):
- 8 ounces (225g) of protein: You can use chicken breast, pork tenderloin, shrimp, or tofu as the protein for your Shanghai Fried Noodles. Simply slice or chop your protein of choice into bite-sized pieces.
First Step: Prepare the Noodles
The first step in making Shanghai Fried Noodles is preparing the noodles. If you’re using fresh Shanghai noodles or lo mein noodles, they’ll need to be briefly cooked in boiling water. Follow the instructions on the package for cooking time, but generally, you’ll want to boil them for about 3-4 minutes until they are just tender. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking together.
Once the noodles are cooked, drain them well and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Toss the noodles with a small drizzle of sesame oil to keep them from sticking and to infuse them with a subtle nutty flavor. Set the noodles aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Second Step: Prepare the Sauce
While the noodles are cooking, it’s a good idea to prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, and chicken or vegetable broth. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and everything is well mixed. Taste the sauce and adjust the flavors as needed, adding a bit more sugar for sweetness or soy sauce for saltiness.
If you like a bit of spice, you can add a teaspoon of chili paste or a drizzle of Sriracha sauce to the mixture. Set the sauce aside while you stir-fry the vegetables and protein.
Third Step: Stir-Fry the Vegetables and Protein
Next, it’s time to stir-fry the vegetables and protein (if using). Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the carrots and napa cabbage to the skillet and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. Then, add the chopped green onions and cook for another 1-2 minutes. If you’re using protein, such as sliced chicken or shrimp, add it to the pan now and cook until it’s fully cooked through. Make sure to stir constantly to ensure everything is evenly cooked and coated with the flavors.
Once the vegetables and protein are cooked, transfer them to a plate and set aside.
Fourth Step: Stir-Fry the Noodles
In the same skillet or wok, heat the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the cooked noodles to the pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they begin to crisp up and develop a slight golden-brown color on the edges. The key to achieving that signature “fried” noodle texture is to allow the noodles to sit in the pan for a bit without stirring constantly, so they can develop those crispy edges.
Once the noodles are fried to your liking, add the prepared sauce to the pan. Stir well to coat the noodles with the sauce and evenly distribute the flavors. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the noodles to absorb the sauce and soak up all the delicious flavors.
Fifth Step: Combine Everything
Once the noodles have absorbed the sauce, it’s time to bring everything together. Add the cooked vegetables and protein back into the skillet with the noodles. Toss everything together to combine. Continue cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes, making sure everything is heated through and well-mixed.
Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you prefer more heat, add a bit more chili paste or Sriracha. If you like your noodles a little saltier, add an extra splash of soy sauce.
Final Step: Serve and Enjoy!
Once everything is perfectly mixed and heated through, transfer the Shanghai Fried Noodles to serving plates. Garnish with extra chopped green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds, if desired. Serve immediately while the noodles are hot and crispy.
These noodles are a great dish on their own or can be served as a side to other Chinese favorites like General Tso’s Chicken, Sweet and Sour Pork, or Egg Drop Soup. Enjoy!
How to Serve Shanghai Fried Noodles
Shanghai Fried Noodles are versatile and can be served in many different ways. Here are a few ideas for how to enjoy this dish:
1. As a Main Dish
These noodles are hearty enough to serve as a main course. Pair them with a simple vegetable side dish or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.
2. With Your Favorite Protein
Shanghai Fried Noodles are the perfect base for your favorite protein. Whether you add shrimp, chicken, pork, or tofu, the noodles will complement any protein you choose. The dish can be made entirely vegetarian or meat-based, depending on your preference.
3. As a Side Dish
Serve Shanghai Fried Noodles as a side dish to other Chinese-inspired dishes. They work well alongside sweet and sour pork, crispy spring rolls, or lemon chicken.
4. Perfect for Meal Prep
This dish also makes a great option for meal prep. It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, and the flavors continue to develop after sitting for a while. Reheat in the microwave or a skillet for a quick lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Recipe Variations
While the classic version of Shanghai Fried Noodles is absolutely delicious, you can customize this dish in various ways to suit your taste preferences.
1. Add More Vegetables
Feel free to add other vegetables to the stir-fry. Bell peppers, snow peas, or mushrooms would all work well in this dish, adding color, flavor, and texture.
2. Spicy Shanghai Fried Noodles
If you enjoy spicy food, consider adding more chili paste, Sriracha, or even chopped fresh chilies to the sauce. The heat will balance nicely with the savory and slightly sweet flavors of the dish.
3. Substitute Different Noodles
While Shanghai noodles are the traditional choice, you can also use other types of noodles for this dish. Try rice noodles, udon, or even spaghetti in a pinch.
4. Add a Crispy Topping
For extra texture, top the finished dish with crispy fried onions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.
Print
Shanghai Fried Noodles: A Delicious and Flavorful Stir-Fry
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Description
Shanghai Fried Noodles are a flavorful, savory dish that’s a staple in Chinese cuisine, known for its rich, satisfying flavors and chewy, slightly crispy noodles. The dish is typically made with fresh egg noodles that are stir-fried in a hot wok with a blend of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a touch of sugar, which gives the noodles a deep, umami flavor. The noodles are stir-fried until they’re golden and slightly crispy on the edges, creating a perfect balance between tender and crunchy textures. A mix of vegetables such as cabbage, bell peppers, and carrots are often added for color and crunch, while savory protein options like chicken, pork, or beef can be incorporated. The dish is finished with a sprinkling of green onions or sesame seeds for an extra pop of flavor. Shanghai Fried Noodles are a satisfying, easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or for serving as part of a larger Asian-inspired spread.
Ingredients
For the Noodles:
- 8 ounces (225g) Shanghai noodles or lo mein noodles: Shanghai noodles are thick, chewy wheat noodles that work perfectly in this dish. If you can’t find Shanghai noodles, you can substitute with other types of fresh or dried noodles, such as lo mein noodles.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil: Adds a delicious nutty flavor to the stir-fry.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: For stir-frying the vegetables and noodles.
For the Vegetables:
- 1 cup napa cabbage: Shredded, napa cabbage is the most common vegetable used in Shanghai Fried Noodles, providing a mild flavor and crisp texture.
- 1/2 cup carrots: Julienned or thinly sliced, carrots add color and sweetness to the dish.
- 2 green onions (scallions): Chopped into 2-inch pieces, green onions add a mild onion flavor and a nice crunch.
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced, garlic adds a savory kick and depth of flavor.
For the Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce: The base of the sauce, providing the dish with its umami-rich flavor.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Adds sweetness and complexity to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon sugar: Balances the saltiness and adds a touch of sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar: A small amount of vinegar helps brighten up the dish and balance the flavors.
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth: To create a bit of sauce that coats the noodles. You can use water if you don’t have broth on hand.
- Optional: 1 teaspoon chili paste or Sriracha sauce for a spicy kick.
For the Protein (Optional):
- 8 ounces (225g) of protein: You can use chicken breast, pork tenderloin, shrimp, or tofu as the protein for your Shanghai Fried Noodles. Simply slice or chop your protein of choice into bite-sized pieces.
Instructions
First Step: Prepare the Noodles
The first step in making Shanghai Fried Noodles is preparing the noodles. If you’re using fresh Shanghai noodles or lo mein noodles, they’ll need to be briefly cooked in boiling water. Follow the instructions on the package for cooking time, but generally, you’ll want to boil them for about 3-4 minutes until they are just tender. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking together.
Once the noodles are cooked, drain them well and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Toss the noodles with a small drizzle of sesame oil to keep them from sticking and to infuse them with a subtle nutty flavor. Set the noodles aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Second Step: Prepare the Sauce
While the noodles are cooking, it’s a good idea to prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, and chicken or vegetable broth. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and everything is well mixed. Taste the sauce and adjust the flavors as needed, adding a bit more sugar for sweetness or soy sauce for saltiness.
If you like a bit of spice, you can add a teaspoon of chili paste or a drizzle of Sriracha sauce to the mixture. Set the sauce aside while you stir-fry the vegetables and protein.
Third Step: Stir-Fry the Vegetables and Protein
Next, it’s time to stir-fry the vegetables and protein (if using). Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the carrots and napa cabbage to the skillet and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften. Then, add the chopped green onions and cook for another 1-2 minutes. If you’re using protein, such as sliced chicken or shrimp, add it to the pan now and cook until it’s fully cooked through. Make sure to stir constantly to ensure everything is evenly cooked and coated with the flavors.
Once the vegetables and protein are cooked, transfer them to a plate and set aside.
Fourth Step: Stir-Fry the Noodles
In the same skillet or wok, heat the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the cooked noodles to the pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they begin to crisp up and develop a slight golden-brown color on the edges. The key to achieving that signature “fried” noodle texture is to allow the noodles to sit in the pan for a bit without stirring constantly, so they can develop those crispy edges.
Once the noodles are fried to your liking, add the prepared sauce to the pan. Stir well to coat the noodles with the sauce and evenly distribute the flavors. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the noodles to absorb the sauce and soak up all the delicious flavors.
Fifth Step: Combine Everything
Once the noodles have absorbed the sauce, it’s time to bring everything together. Add the cooked vegetables and protein back into the skillet with the noodles. Toss everything together to combine. Continue cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes, making sure everything is heated through and well-mixed.
Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you prefer more heat, add a bit more chili paste or Sriracha. If you like your noodles a little saltier, add an extra splash of soy sauce.
Final Step: Serve and Enjoy!
Once everything is perfectly mixed and heated through, transfer the Shanghai Fried Noodles to serving plates. Garnish with extra chopped green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds, if desired. Serve immediately while the noodles are hot and crispy.
These noodles are a great dish on their own or can be served as a side to other Chinese favorites like General Tso’s Chicken, Sweet and Sour Pork, or Egg Drop Soup. Enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Stir-Frying Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 15g
Conclusion
Shanghai Fried Noodles are the perfect combination of savory, crispy, and tender, making them a go-to dish for a delicious and satisfying meal. This recipe is easy to follow, customizable, and versatile, allowing you to create a meal that suits your tastes and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for your next gathering, Shanghai Fried Noodles will undoubtedly become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. So grab your wok, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy this delicious stir-fry at home!
