Shrimp Chow Mein with Bean Sprouts is a classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines succulent shrimp, tender noodles, and crunchy vegetables tossed in a savory, slightly sweet sauce. The addition of crisp bean sprouts adds a refreshing crunch and lightness, balancing the rich umami flavors of the stir-fry.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties because it comes together quickly but looks and tastes like a restaurant-quality meal. The combination of textures—soft noodles, juicy shrimp, and crisp veggies—makes every bite satisfying and comforting.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it captures the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The shrimp are tender and slightly sweet, the noodles are soft yet firm, and the vegetables, especially the bean sprouts, give a light, crunchy contrast.

The sauce is rich but not overpowering, making it a perfect harmony of savory, salty, and slightly sweet flavors. It’s also incredibly versatile and can be customized based on the veggies or protein you have on hand.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes without compromising flavor.
• Nutritious: High in protein from shrimp and full of fresh vegetables.
• Restaurant-Quality at Home: Impressive enough for guests but simple enough for weeknights.
• Flexible: Can be made with other proteins like chicken, tofu, or beef.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings and Nutritional Info

• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: ~320 kcal
• Course: Main course
• Cuisine: Chinese / Asian-inspired

Ingredients

For the Chow Mein

• 200 g (7 oz) chow mein noodles or thin egg noodles
• 1 lb (450 g) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, julienned
• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 3 green onions, sliced

For the Sauce

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (or vegetarian alternative)
• 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper (optional)

Cooking Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

1. Cook chow mein noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse under cold water, and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, sugar, broth, and white pepper. Set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

3. Heat 1 tablespoon vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables

5. In the same wok, add remaining oil. Add garlic, ginger, and onions. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
6. Add bell pepper, cabbage, and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
7. Add bean sprouts and green onions. Stir-fry for 1 minute more.

Step 5: Combine Noodles, Shrimp, and Sauce

8. Add cooked noodles and shrimp back to the wok. Pour in the prepared sauce.
9. Toss everything together over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes until heated through and evenly coated with sauce.

Step 6: Serve

10. Serve hot, garnished with extra green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

How to Serve

• Serve in large bowls or on plates as a main course.
• Pairs well with a side of steamed dumplings, spring rolls, or a simple Asian-style salad.
• A drizzle of sriracha or chili oil can add a spicy kick if desired.

Recipe Tips

• Do not overcook the shrimp; they cook quickly and can become rubbery.
• Cook noodles slightly underdone as they continue to cook when stir-fried.
• Toss the noodles gently to avoid breaking them apart.
• Use high heat for stir-frying to get a slight char for added flavor.

Variations

1. Protein Swap: Substitute shrimp with chicken, beef, tofu, or tempeh.
2. Vegetable Mix: Add snow peas, mushrooms, carrots, or bok choy.
3. Spicy Chow Mein: Add chili garlic sauce or fresh chopped chilies.
4. Gluten-Free: Use rice noodles and gluten-free soy sauce.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended for noodles and vegetables as they may become mushy, but shrimp can be frozen separately before cooking for up to 2 months.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large wok or skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Pot for boiling noodles
• Knife and cutting board
• Spatula or tongs for stir-frying

FAQ

Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes, replace shrimp with tofu or extra vegetables and use vegetarian oyster sauce.

Q: Can I prepare it ahead of time?
A: Yes, prep all vegetables and sauce ahead. Cook noodles and shrimp just before serving.

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes, thaw completely before cooking to avoid excess water in the stir-fry.

Q: Can I add more sauce?
A: Yes, but avoid adding too much liquid as chow mein should be lightly coated, not soupy.

Conclusion

Shrimp Chow Mein with Bean Sprouts is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish that brings the taste of a restaurant favorite to your home kitchen. Its combination of tender shrimp, soft noodles, and crisp vegetables makes it both comforting and nutritious. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a cozy weeknight meal, this dish is versatile, easy to make, and absolutely delicious.