Description

A simple Nepali-style chow mein that focuses on fresh, crunchy vegetables, a balanced sauce, and optionally chicken, buff, or pork.

Ingredients

• Basics (and optional protein):
  • A packet of noodles (chow mein noodles preferred)
  • About 100g chicken, pork, or buff (optional)
• Vegetables:
  • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
  • 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece ginger, grated or minced
  • ½ small head cabbage, shredded
  • 1 medium carrot, julienned (optional but suggested)
  • 1 bell pepper (capsicum), thinly sliced (optional)
  • ½ cup green peas (optional)
  • Green chilies, chopped (adjust to taste)
• For the sauce:
  • Green chili sauce, blended chili, or chili powder (to taste)
  • Tomato ketchup or blended tomato
  • ½ tsp salt and black pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp homemade or chow mein masala powder (adjust to taste)
• For cooking:
  • Oil or ghee
  • 1 tsp soy sauce (optional)
  • Tomato sauce (optional)
• Garnish:
  • Spring onions (green part)
  • Green chili
  • Cilantro
  • Squeeze of lime juice or lime wedges

Steps

1. Prepare the Noodles
   • Boil the noodles according to package instructions until just shy of al dente.
   • Drain and rinse immediately under cold water to stop the cooking.
   • Toss lightly with a little oil and set aside.
2. Cook Protein (if using)
   • Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or frying pan over medium-high heat.
   • Add the sliced meat with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
   • Stir-fry until browned and cooked through (5-7 minutes).
   • Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Stir-Fry Vegetables
   • Add a little more oil to the same pan if needed.
   • Add garlic and ginger; stir for 10 seconds until fragrant.
   • Add onions and green chilies; stir-fry for 1 minute.
   • Add carrots, cabbage, bell peppers, and peas.
   • Cook on high heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Season and Combine
   • Add chow mein masala powder, salt, and black pepper.
   • Return the cooked meat (if using) to the pan.
   • Add the noodles.
   • Drizzle in soy sauce, ketchup, and chili sauce.
5. Final Toss and Serve
   • Toss everything on high heat for 2-3 minutes until well combined.
   • Allow the noodles to char slightly for street-style flavor.
   • Add a dash of vinegar or lime juice.
   • Garnish with spring onions and cilantro, and serve hot.