If you're a fan of Chinese cuisine, then you've likely heard of Lo Mein. This savory and satisfying dish is a staple in many Chinese restaurants and can often be found on takeout menus. One serving of Lo Mein typically contains 310 calories, making it a hearty meal option that shouldn't leave you feeling too guilty.

In addition to its calorie count, Lo Mein is typically made with vegetables and protein-rich meats, providing a balance of nutrients that can fuel your body and keep you feeling full. However, depending on the ingredients used and the way it's prepared, Lo Mein can also be high in sodium and fat. It's important to pay attention to these factors when choosing and preparing your dish.

In this article, we'll explore the history and ingredients of Lo Mein, its health benefits, and some tips for making it healthier. We'll also provide some delicious recipes to try at home and helpful tips for storing and reheating your leftovers.

What is Lo Mein?

Lo Mein is a Chinese dish that consists of soft egg noodles tossed with a variety of vegetables and proteins, such as chicken, beef, or shrimp. The dish is often flavored with a rich sauce made from soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and other seasonings. The dish originated in the Guangdong province of China and is a popular option in Cantonese cuisine. It is similar to Chow Mein, another popular Chinese noodle dish, but is made with a different type of noodle. Lo Mein has become a beloved dish in Western countries and is commonly found on Chinese restaurant menus. It can also be easily prepared at home with a few simple ingredients.

Ingredients of a typical Lo Mein dish

The ingredients of a Lo Mein dish can vary depending on the restaurant or recipe used, but typically include the following: Egg noodles, vegetables (such as carrots, broccoli, mushrooms, and peppers), protein (such as chicken, beef, or shrimp), soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and other seasonings. Additional ingredients can be added depending on personal preference, such as bean sprouts, water chestnuts, or bamboo shoots.

The history of Lo Mein

Lo Mein has been enjoyed in Chinese cuisine for centuries, with its origins tracing back to the Han dynasty. The dish has evolved over time and has become a popular option in Cantonese cooking, and eventually found its way to Western countries. Today, Lo Mein is a beloved dish in many Chinese restaurants and is enjoyed by people around the world.

The health benefits of Lo Mein

Lo Mein can be a healthy meal option when prepared with nutritious ingredients and portion sizes are kept in mind. Egg noodles used in Lo Mein are a good source of complex carbohydrates and can provide sustained energy. Vegetables used in the dish are also nutrient-dense and can provide a range of vitamins and minerals. When choosing protein, it's important to opt for lean cuts of meat or seafood to keep the calorie count and fat content in check. Additionally, avoiding excessive sodium in the sauce and recipe can help prevent water retention and high blood pressure.

How to make Lo Mein healthier

Here are some tips for making Lo Mein healthier: - Choose whole wheat or buckwheat noodles for added fiber and nutrients. - Use a mix of colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli for added vitamins and antioxidants. - Use lean cuts of protein such as chicken breast or shrimp. - Use a sauce made with low-sodium soy sauce, and avoid excessive use of oils and salty seasonings. - Opt for steaming or stir-frying vegetables instead of deep-frying for added nutrition and lower fat content.

The best side dishes to pair with Lo Mein

Lo Mein can be paired with a wide range of side dishes to make a more complete meal. Here are some options to try: - Steamed dumplings - Crab Rangoon - Egg rolls - Fried rice - Hot and Sour soup - Wonton soup Choose sides that complement the flavors of the Lo Mein and provide a balance of textures and nutrients.

Tips for storing and reheating Lo Mein

If you find yourself with leftovers after enjoying Lo Mein, here are some tips for storing and reheating it: - Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. - Reheat in the microwave or in a pan on the stove. - Add a splash of water, broth, or soy sauce to prevent the noodles from drying out. - Stir occasionally to distribute heat evenly. Note that reheated Lo Mein may not be as fresh or flavorful as when it was first served, but it can still make for a satisfying meal.

The difference between Lo Mein and Chow Mein

While Lo Mein and Chow Mein are both Chinese noodle dishes, there are some key differences between them. Lo Mein is made with soft, egg noodles that are boiled and then stir-fried with meat and vegetables. Chow Mein, on the other hand, is made with thin, crispy noodles that are fried until crispy before being mixed with meat and vegetables. Additionally, the sauce used in Chow Mein tends to be lighter and less flavorful than the sauce used in Lo Mein.

How to order healthy Lo Mein from a restaurant

If you're ordering Lo Mein at a restaurant and want to make a healthier choice, here are some tips: - Ask for the dish to be made with whole wheat or buckwheat noodles if available. - Request additional vegetables to be added to the dish. - Ask for the sauce on the side, so you can control how much is added. - Choose seafood or lean cuts of meat instead of fried or battered protein. By making a few simple requests, you can enjoy a healthier version of this delicious dish.

Delicious Lo Mein recipes to try at home

Here are some mouth-watering Lo Mein recipes to try at home: - Vegetable Lo Mein: made with a mix of colorful vegetables, ginger, and soy sauce. - Chicken Lo Mein: made with lean chicken breast, broccoli, and oyster sauce. - Shrimp Lo Mein: made with succulent shrimp, snap peas, and garlic. Experiment with different protein and vegetable combinations to find your favorite Lo Mein recipe.