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!