By Mixed Chowmein is one of the most loved Indo-Chinese dishes, a flavorful medley of stir-fried noodles, crunchy vegetables, tender chicken, prawns, and eggs. Its balanced combination of savory sauces, spices, and textures makes it a favorite for both home cooking and parties. The dish comes together quickly once your ingredients are prepped, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers.
Why Mixed Chowmein?
Unlike regular chowmein, mixed chowmein brings together the best of all worlds—vegetables, meats, and seafood—delivering a hearty, complete meal in a single bowl. The noodles absorb the flavors of soy, chili, and vinegar, while the different proteins add richness and variety. Perfect for anyone who enjoys a balanced and satisfying meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For 4 servings, gather the following ingredients:
- 200 grams noodles (Hakka or egg noodles)
- 100 grams boneless chicken, thinly sliced
- 6–8 medium prawns, cleaned and deveined
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrot, bell peppers, cabbage, and beans), julienned
- 1 medium onion, sliced thinly
- 3–4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon chili sauce (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil (divided)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Spring onions, chopped, for garnish
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Cook the Noodles
Bring a pot of water to a boil, add a pinch of salt, and cook the noodles according to the package instructions until just al dente. Drain immediately and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Toss with a few drops of oil to prevent sticking and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Protein
Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil. Once hot, add the sliced chicken and stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until cooked through. Remove and set aside. In the same wok, quickly stir-fry the prawns until they turn pink and opaque, about 2 minutes. Remove and keep them aside as well.
Step 3: Scramble the Egg
Add a little more oil to the wok if needed. Pour in the beaten egg and scramble lightly, breaking it into small pieces. Remove and keep aside with the chicken and prawns.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Add the remaining oil to the wok. Toss in the chopped garlic and sliced onion. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the julienned vegetables and stir-fry on high heat for 2–3 minutes. They should remain crisp and colorful.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken, prawns, and scrambled egg to the wok. Add the noodles and toss everything together over high heat. Pour in soy sauce, chili sauce, tomato ketchup (if using), and vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Use tongs or chopsticks to mix well, ensuring that all noodles and ingredients are coated evenly in the sauces.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped spring onions on top for a fresh crunch. Serve hot, directly from the wok to the table.
Tips for Perfect Mixed Chowmein
- Prep everything in advance: Chowmein cooks quickly, so have all your ingredients chopped and ready before you start cooking.
- High heat is key: Stir-frying on high heat ensures that the noodles and vegetables retain their texture and don’t become soggy.
- Use the right noodles: Hakka or egg noodles work best as they absorb the sauces well without turning mushy.
- Customize your proteins: You can substitute chicken and prawns with beef, pork, or tofu for a different flavor profile.
- Balance your sauces: Adjust soy sauce, chili sauce, and vinegar to match your preferred taste—savory, spicy, or tangy.
Serving Suggestions
Mixed Chowmein pairs beautifully with hot and sour soup, chili chicken, or spring rolls for a full Indo-Chinese meal. You can also serve it on its own as a main dish since it’s packed with proteins and vegetables. For an extra touch, serve with chili vinegar or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish captures the essence of street-style Indo-Chinese food—bold flavors, quick cooking, and vibrant colors. It’s a versatile recipe that can be tailored to your taste preferences. Plus, making it at home ensures that you control the quality of ingredients, oil, and seasoning. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply craving a satisfying meal, Mixed Chowmein is guaranteed to hit the spot.
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