Garlic Sesame Lo Mein

A quick and easy Asian noodle side dish, Garlic Sesame Lo Mein is perfect for any occasion. This dish combines the classic flavors of garlic and ginger with the nutty essence of toasted sesame seeds. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a simple weeknight meal, this lo mein recipe delivers on taste and versatility. Plus, you can easily adjust the spice level to suit your preference by adding dried red chilies.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful Ingredients: Rich garlic and ginger flavors paired with nutty sesame add depth to every bite.
• Customizable Spice Level: Control the heat by adjusting the amount of dried red chili flakes to suit your taste.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or as a side alongside your favorite protein.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its comforting flavors, Garlic Sesame Lo Mein appeals to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools to make cooking easier. Having the right equipment will streamline the process and enhance your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cooking spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides ample space for sautéing garlic and ginger while ensuring even cooking of the noodles.
• Cooking spatula: Helps in tossing ingredients evenly, preventing sticking and ensuring that everything gets coated in sauce.

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Ingredients

For this flavorful Garlic Sesame Lo Mein, gather the following ingredients:

Noodles

• 400 grams lo mein noodles, (prepared according to package instructions)

Aromatics

• 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 6 cloves garlic, (minced)
• 2 tablespoons ginger, (minced)
• 1 teaspoon dried red chili flakes, (optional)

Sauces and Seasoning

• 3 tablespoons light soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons dark soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

Garnish

• Green onions, (thinly sliced for garnish)

How to Make Garlic Sesame Lo Mein

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the vegetable oil, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Spice

Add the dried red chili flakes if you’re using them. Stir into the garlic and ginger mixture to incorporate their flavor.

Step 3: Combine Sauces and Noodles

Next, add the light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, toasted sesame seeds, and prepared noodles. Toss everything together to combine well. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes or until noodles are heated through.

Step 4: Finish with Oils and Green Onions

Turn off the heat. Drizzle in the sesame oil and add the sliced green onions. Toss again to ensure everything is well coated.

Step 5: Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with extra toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions as desired.

This delightful Garlic Sesame Lo Mein is not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor—perfect for any dining occasion! Enjoy your meal!

How to Serve Garlic Sesame Lo Mein

Garlic Sesame Lo Mein is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with various flavors and textures. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or alongside other dishes, here are some creative serving suggestions.

As a Standalone Dish

• Enjoy it hot straight from the skillet for a comforting meal. The rich garlic and sesame flavors shine through when served alone.

With Grilled Chicken

• Pair your lo mein with grilled chicken for added protein. The smoky flavor complements the savory noodles perfectly.

With Steamed Vegetables

• Serve alongside steamed vegetables like broccoli or bok choy. This adds freshness and crunch to your meal.

With Fried Tofu

• For a plant-based option, add crispy fried tofu on top of your lo mein. It absorbs the flavors well and enhances the dish’s texture.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Add fresh cilantro or basil as a garnish. This will brighten up the dish and add an aromatic touch.

How to Perfect Garlic Sesame Lo Mein

Perfecting Garlic Sesame Lo Mein is all about balancing flavors and achieving the right texture. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger provide more intense flavors compared to pre-minced versions.
• Control the Heat: Adjust the amount of dried red chili flakes based on your spice preference to achieve the desired heat level.
• Toss Well: Ensure you toss the noodles thoroughly in the sauce to coat them evenly for maximum flavor.
• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra nutrition and color.
• Adjust Soy Sauce: Taste before serving; you can adjust the soy sauce amounts for saltiness according to your liking.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Sesame Lo Mein

To create a well-rounded meal, consider pairing Garlic Sesame Lo Mein with these delicious side dishes.

1. Crispy Spring Rolls
   A crunchy appetizer filled with vegetables or shrimp, perfect for dipping in sweet chili sauce.

2. Sesame Cucumber Salad
   A refreshing salad made with cucumbers, sesame oil, and rice vinegar that complements the richness of lo mein.

3. Spicy Edamame
   Steamed edamame tossed in sea salt and chili flakes offers a delightful snack that enhances your meal’s umami profile.

4. Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
   Tender chicken skewers glazed with teriyaki sauce bring sweetness and protein that pairs beautifully with lo mein.

5. Vegetable Dumplings
   Soft dumplings filled with assorted vegetables create a tasty bite-sized option alongside your noodles.

6. Miso Soup
   A warm bowl of miso soup adds depth and warmth, making it an excellent starter before indulging in lo mein.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Garlic Sesame Lo Mein can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch for. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the perfect dish.

• Skipping the noodle preparation: Always prepare lo mein noodles according to package instructions before adding them to the skillet. This ensures they have the right texture.
• Overcooking garlic and ginger: Garlic and ginger can burn quickly. Cook them just until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes, for the best flavor.
• Neglecting to toss the noodles: Make sure to toss the noodles well with the sauce and aromatics. This helps coat every strand evenly with flavor.
• Using stale spices: Check your dried red chili flakes and sesame seeds for freshness. Stale spices can lead to a bland dish.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Taste your Garlic Sesame Lo Mein as you cook. Feel free to adjust soy sauce or add more chili flakes for heat according to your preference.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Will keep fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Garlic Sesame Lo Mein

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• Can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Garlic Sesame Lo Mein

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of water or broth in a skillet over medium heat and stir until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Garlic Sesame Lo Mein that might help you out!

What is Garlic Sesame Lo Mein?

Garlic Sesame Lo Mein is a quick Asian noodle dish featuring lo mein noodles tossed with garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil for rich flavors.

Can I customize the spice level?

Yes! Adjust the amount of dried red chili flakes according to your taste. You can make it as spicy or mild as you prefer.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra nutrition and color!

How should I serve Garlic Sesame Lo Mein?

Serve it warm as a side dish or main course, garnished with green onions and extra toasted sesame seeds.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Sesame Lo Mein is not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice levels. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite at your table!