The moment I first tasted the deliciously savory Shanghai Fried Noodles from a bustling street vendor, I was hooked. The enticing aroma of ginger and garlic dancing in the air, the sizzle of fresh vegetables meeting the wok, and the vibrant mix of flavors made my taste buds sing. Fast-forward a few years, and I’ve embraced the magic of this dish in my own kitchen—a quick, 30-minute wonder that never fails to impress.
Perfect for busy weeknights, this Quick and Easy recipe allows you to customize it to your heart’s content. Whether you opt for succulent pork, tender chicken, or hearty tofu, the umami-packed flavors will transport you straight to the streets of Shanghai. Fresh vegetables like bok choy or bell peppers not only add crunch but also make this dish a colorful feast for the eyes. Ready to delight your family with a flavorful meal? Let’s dive into creating these savory noodles that are sure to have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love These Savory Shanghai Fried Noodles
Speedy Preparation: This recipe brings dinner to the table in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic weeknights.
Customizable Flavors: With the flexibility to choose your favorite proteins and vegetables, you can make this dish uniquely yours every time.
Umami Explosion: A delicious blend of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger ensures a rich, savory flavor that tantalizes your taste buds.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for families, this dish is sure to keep both kids and adults asking for more.
One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to relax after dinner; everything cooks in one pan for effortless enjoyment!
Savory Shanghai Fried Noodles Ingredients
For the Noodles
• Thick Noodles (Chow Mein or Lo Mein) – Provides a chewy texture; substitute with gluten-free noodles if you’re looking for an alternative.
For the Protein
• Pork (1 lb, sliced) – Adds rich flavor; can be substituted with chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option.
For the Vegetables
• Cabbage (2 cups, chopped) – Adds crunch; bok choy or bell peppers can be used interchangeably to suit your taste.
• Mushrooms (1 cup, sliced) – Shiitake or button mushrooms contribute earthy depth; optional for a lighter version.
• Green Onions (1 cup, chopped) – Provides sharp freshness; shallots can substitute in a pinch.
For Seasoning
• Soy Sauce (1/4 cup) – This key seasoning brings umami richness, enhancing your savory Shanghai fried noodles; use low-sodium for a healthier option.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Essential aromatic; fresh is best for maximum flavor.
• Ginger (1 tbsp, grated) – Adds warmth and spice; fresh is preferred for optimal taste.
How to Make Savory Shanghai Fried Noodles
-
Marinate Pork: In a bowl, combine sliced pork with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Allow it to marinate for at least 10 minutes for deeper flavors to develop.
-
Cook Noodles: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the thick noodles until al dente, about 5-7 minutes. Drain them well and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.
-
Sauté Pork: Heat oil in a large pan or wok over high heat. Add the marinated pork and stir-fry until browned, roughly 3-4 minutes. Remove the pork from the pan and set aside.
-
Add Vegetables: In the same pan, add cabbage, mushrooms, and green onions. Stir-fry until the vegetables are tender yet still crisp, taking about 4-5 minutes.
-
Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked pork to the pan. Add the noodles and soy sauce, gently tossing everything together, and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until evenly heated.
-
Serve and Garnish: Plate your savory noodles and garnish with additional green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra touch before serving.
Optional: Drizzle a bit of sesame oil for added flavor richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Savory Shanghai Fried Noodles?
Elevate your meal experience by pairing these flavorful noodles with delightful sides that perfectly complement their umami goodness.
- Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy bites add a delightful texture contrast and a savory filling, making them the perfect appetizer.
- Simple Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with cool cucumbers and a light dressing balances the rich flavors of the noodles and provides a crisp, fresh element.
- Steamed Dumplings: Soft, tender dumplings filled with your choice of meat or vegetables are a wonderful accompaniment that brings a comforting, hearty feel.
- Wok-Seared Bok Choy: This lightly cooked vegetable adds a vibrant green freshness, enhancing the meal with its crisp texture and mild flavor.
- Sesame Garlic Green Beans: The nutty flavor of sesame paired with garlic sautéed green beans makes for a flavorful side that harmonizes wonderfully with the dish.
- Chili Oil for Drizzling: Adding a splash of chili oil not only brings heat but also an exciting depth of flavor, elevating the whole meal experience.
- Green Tea: A warm cup of green tea can cleanse the palate and complements the umami flavor profile of the noodles beautifully.
- Mango Sticky Rice: End your meal on a sweet note with this classic dessert, offering a luscious sweetness that balances the savory notes of the noodles.
How to Store and Freeze Savory Shanghai Fried Noodles
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: Freeze the dish in a compatible container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat.
Reheating: To reheat, microwave the noodles in 1-minute intervals until heated through, or stir-fry them on a pan with a splash of water to restore moisture.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prep the pork marinade and chop vegetables 24 hours in advance to streamline your cooking process on a busy night.
Expert Tips for Savory Shanghai Fried Noodles
-
Prep Ahead: Gather and chop all ingredients in advance to ensure a smooth cooking experience and save valuable time during the busy weeknights.
-
Perfect Noodle Texture: Always cook your noodles al dente; they will continue to soften while stir-frying. This keeps the texture delightful and non-soggy.
-
Avoid Overcrowding: When sautéing, make sure not to crowd the pan. This allows everything to cook evenly and achieve that beautiful golden-brown color.
-
Gradual Seasoning: Start with the recommended soy sauce amount and adjust according to your taste preferences. Overdoing it at once can mask the umami richness of the dish.
-
Customization is Key: Feel free to switch up proteins and veggies based on what your family loves. This flexibility allows you to make the savory Shanghai fried noodles your own!
Savory Shanghai Fried Noodles Variations
Enjoy the creative freedom to personalize your dish with these delightful options that will elevate your meal experience!
-
Chicken Swap: Replace pork with sliced chicken breast for a leaner protein option that cooks quickly and stays tender.
-
Tofu Twist: For a vegetarian delight, use firm tofu; just sauté it until golden and crispy for added texture and flavor.
-
Seasonal Veggies: Incorporate fresh, seasonal vegetables like snap peas or carrots to add vibrant colors and nutritional benefits.
-
Heat It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of chili oil to kick up the heat and awaken your taste buds.
-
Saucy Variation: Drizzle a hint of hoisin sauce along with soy sauce for a sweeter depth that will balance the savory flavors beautifully.
-
Nutty Flavor: Stir in a tablespoon of sesame oil just before serving for a nutty aroma that complements the dish wonderfully.
-
Bell Pepper Burst: Substitute cabbage with chopped bell peppers for an extra crunch and a touch of sweetness that kids will love.
-
Umami Boost: Take it up a notch by adding a tablespoon of oyster sauce or mushroom sauce to enhance the umami complexity in every bite.
Make Ahead Options
These Savory Shanghai Fried Noodles are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can marinate the pork and chop vegetables up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply refrigerate the marinated pork in an airtight container to keep it fresh, and store the chopped veggies separately. Additionally, you can cook the noodles ahead of time—just toss them with a little oil to prevent sticking, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your noodles, stir-fry the pork and veggies until cooked through, add the pre-cooked noodles, and toss everything together for a quick, delicious dinner that feels just as vibrant and flavorful as if you made it fresh!
Savory Shanghai Fried Noodles Recipe FAQs
What type of noodles should I use for the best flavor?
The best noodles for this recipe are thick chow mein or lo mein noodles, as they provide the perfect chewy texture. If you have gluten sensitivities, feel free to substitute them with gluten-free noodles; the dish will still be delicious!
How should I store leftover Savory Shanghai Fried Noodles?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure they have cooled before sealing to preserve their freshness. You’ll be delighted to enjoy the same delightful flavors on another busy night!
Can I freeze Savory Shanghai Fried Noodles?
Absolutely! You can freeze them for up to 2 months. Just make sure they are completely cool before placing them in a freezer-friendly container. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. To reheat, simply microwave in 1-minute intervals or stir-fry in a pan with a splash of water for moisture.
What vegetables can I substitute if I don’t have cabbage or mushrooms?
Not to worry—this dish is highly customizable! You can use bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas instead of cabbage and mushrooms. Feel free to play around with seasonal vegetables that you enjoy, keeping the crunch for that delightful texture.
Can I prepare the pork ahead of time?
Certainly! To make your cooking process smoother, marinate the pork and chop the vegetables 24 hours in advance. Simply place the marinated pork in the fridge until you’re ready to stir-fry, which will enhance the flavors even more when you cook them!
Is this dish suitable for all dietary preferences?
Everyone can enjoy it! You can easily make it vegetarian by opting for tofu instead of pork or chicken. Always be mindful of any soy allergies when using soy sauce—substituting with coconut aminos can provide a similar umami flavor without soy.
Savory Shanghai Fried Noodles: Quick, Easy Family Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine sliced pork with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Allow it to marinate for at least 10 minutes.
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the thick noodles until al dente, about 5-7 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- Heat oil in a large pan or wok over high heat. Add the marinated pork and stir-fry until browned, roughly 3-4 minutes. Remove pork from pan.
- In the same pan, add cabbage, mushrooms, and green onions. Stir-fry until tender yet crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
- Return the cooked pork to the pan. Add noodles and soy sauce, gently tossing, and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes.
- Plate your savory noodles and garnish with additional green onions or sesame seeds before serving.