Vegan Lo mein with Tofu

A steaming plate of perfectly cooked noodles, tossed in a savory, umami-packed sauce, loaded with vibrant, crisp vegetables, and topped with irresistibly golden-brown baked tofu.

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What is vegan lo mein

Vegan lo mein is a Chinese dish made with noodles, vegetables, and a sauce that does not contain any animal products. The noodles used in lo mein are typically wheat-based, and the vegetables can vary but commonly include carrots, bell peppers, broccoli, and mushrooms. The sauce is usually made with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and sometimes other seasonings like sesame oil or chili paste. Vegan lo mein is a popular option for those following a plant-based diet or looking for a meatless meal.

Not all noodles are vegan

You are correct, not all noodles are vegan. Some noodles, especially those made with egg or egg products, are not suitable for a vegan diet. It’s important to read the ingredients list or check for any animal-derived ingredients before purchasing or consuming noodles.

For those following a vegan diet, there are several options available. Look for noodles made from ingredients like rice, wheat, or buckwheat, as these are typically vegan-friendly. Rice noodles, soba noodles (made from buckwheat), and some wheat-based noodles like udon or ramen can be suitable for vegans.

It’s always a good idea to double-check the packaging or consult with the manufacturer if you are unsure about the vegan status of a particular noodle product.

We used Maruchan’s Nama Yakisoba a popular instant noodle dish that is ready to eat in just a few minutes. It is a Japanese-style stir-fried noodle dish that is flavored with a savory sauce and can be served with various toppings such as vegetables and tofu. The noodles are soft and chewy, and the sauce adds a delicious umami flavor to the dish. Maruchan’s Nama Yakisoba is a convenient and tasty option for a quick and satisfying meal.

Make the noodles

To cook lo mein noodles, follow these steps:

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water for added flavor.
2. Once the water is boiling, carefully add the lo mein noodles to the pot. Stir gently to prevent them from sticking together.
3. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions, usually around 4-6 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
4. Test the noodles for doneness by tasting a strand. They should be cooked but still slightly firm (al dente).
5. Once the noodles are cooked to your desired texture, drain them in a colander and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and remove excess starch.
6. Toss the cooked and cooled noodles with a little bit of oil to prevent them from sticking together.
7. Use the cooked lo mein noodles in your desired recipe, such as stir-frying them with vegetables and sauce for a delicious vegan lo mein dish.

Note: It’s important to not overcook the noodles as they can become mushy. Keep an eye on them and test for doneness frequently.

Make the sauce

Make the sauce by cutting up some aromatics, sauteeingbthem in olive oil with a bit of sesame oil. We got ginger, onions and scallions. Add the seasoning packet along with a mixture of vinegar, soy, water & cornstarch. Practice working with these liquids, the tastes and ratios to have a grasp on how they work. Maybe add a bit of sweetener to the mix!

Make Baked Tofu

This protein-packed superstar is marinated to perfection, resulting in a crispy, golden exterior that gives way to a tender, melt-in-your-mouth center. With each bite, you’ll experience a burst of flavor that perfectly complements the noodles and vegetables.

Make baked tofy by slicing up some firm tofu. Prep your marinade by mixing cornstarch, flour, soy sauce & oil. Toss your tofu slices until evenly coated. Space it in a baking tray and bake on 400 for 20 minutes turning halfway.

Assemble

Toss in cooked noodles and mix it with saiteed veggies & aromatics! Make sure to mix thoroughly for even distribution of flavor.

Variations

1. Vegetable Lo Mein: This classic vegan variation includes a mix of colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and mushrooms, stir-fried with noodles and a savory sauce.
2. Tofu Lo Mein: Add some protein to your vegan lo mein by incorporating tofu. Marinate the tofu in soy sauce and stir-fry it with the vegetables and noodles for a delicious and filling meal.
3. Sesame Lo Mein: Elevate your vegan lo mein by adding a nutty and aromatic sesame flavor. Drizzle some toasted sesame oil over the cooked noodles and vegetables, and sprinkle with sesame seeds for an extra crunch.
4. Spicy Lo Mein: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some spice to your vegan lo mein. Toss in some red pepper flakes or chili sauce while stir-frying the vegetables and noodles for a fiery kick.
5. Peanut Lo Mein: For a rich and creamy twist, make a peanut sauce to coat your vegan lo mein. Combine peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, and a touch of maple syrup for a sweet and savory flavor.
6. Garlic Ginger Lo Mein: Infuse your vegan lo mein with the aromatic flavors of garlic and ginger. Sauté minced garlic and grated ginger with the vegetables and noodles for a fragrant and delicious dish.
7. Thai Basil Lo Mein: Give your vegan lo mein a Thai-inspired twist by adding fresh basil leaves. Stir-fry the basil leaves along with the vegetables and noodles for a burst of aromatic flavor.
8. Teriyaki Lo Mein: Create a sweet and tangy vegan lo mein by tossing the cooked noodles and vegetables in a homemade teriyaki sauce. Combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, and cornstarch for a thick and flavorful sauce.
9. Curry Lo Mein: Add a touch of curry powder to your vegan lo mein for a warm and spicy flavor. Stir-fry the vegetables and noodles with the curry powder and a splash of coconut milk for a creamy and aromatic dish.
10. Lemon Garlic Lo Mein: Brighten up your vegan lo mein with the zesty flavors of lemon and garlic. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cooked noodles and vegetables, and sprinkle with minced garlic for a refreshing and tangy twist.