Lo Mein is a beloved Chinese dish that has captured the hearts of food lovers around the world. Its savory sauce, tender noodles, and wide variety of vegetables and proteins make it a versatile dish on its own. However, lo mein becomes even more delicious and balanced when paired with some sides and drinks. In this article, we will explore what side dishes go well with lo mein, and drinks to elevate your dining experience.
Why Lo Mein Is So Popular
Before we dive into the perfect pairing, it’s important to understand why lo mein is so popular. Originating in China, lo mein consists of egg noodles stir-fried with vegetables, meat, or seafood and drizzled with savory sauces. The dish is known for its versatility, with chefs able to add a variety of ingredients based on personal preferences or regional variations. It’s a great comfort food with a balance of textures, flavors, and colors.
Appetizers to Serve with Lo Mein
When it comes to Lo Mein, starting off with a delicious appetizer is a great way to set the tone for the entire meal. Here are some popular appetizers that pair perfectly with Lo Mein:
1. Spring Rolls
Spring rolls are a classic appetizer in Chinese cuisine. They are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and are usually filled with vegetables and sometimes meat. The crispy exterior contrasts the soft and chewy lo mein noodles, and the dipping sauce adds even more flavor. You can choose vegetable spring rolls for a vegetarian option or shrimp spring rolls for a protein boost.
2. Dumplings
Dumplings are also a great choice to pair with Lo Mein. Whether steamed or pan-fried, dumplings are a comforting bite that complements the flavors of Lo Mein. Dumplings can be filled with pork, beef, chicken, or vegetables, and are rich and umami. The umami flavor of the dumpling filling pairs perfectly with the noodles.
3. Chinese Scallion Pancakes
Chinese Scallion Pancakes are crispy, delicious, and fragrant. They are made by mixing chopped scallions with dough and pan-frying until golden and crispy. The crunchy texture of the scallion pancakes pairs perfectly with the soft noodles of the lo mein, while its umami flavor elevates the overall taste experience.
4. Hot and Sour Soup
A bowl of hot and sour soup is a comforting and delicious appetizer that pairs perfectly with lo mein. The balanced taste of sour, spicy and umami in the soup complements the savory taste of the lo mein. The combination of the soup base with mushrooms, tofu and vegetables makes for a warm and satisfying start to your meal.
Side Dishes to Serve with Lo Mein
While lo mein is delicious on its own, pairing it with some side dishes can create a nutritionally balanced meal. Here are some side dishes that pair perfectly with lo mein:
1. Stir-fried seasonal vegetables
Stir-fried seasonal vegetables, such as cabbage, snow peas, mushrooms and bell peppers, are a great choice to enhance the taste, color and flavor of the dish. Light, crisp vegetables complement the smooth texture of lo mein while adding a fresh kick. Sauté seasonal vegetables in a simple soy or oyster sauce.
2. Fried Rice
Fried rice is another great option to go with lo mein. Rice is often stir-fried with vegetables, eggs, and meat, and it has a very different texture and flavor than lo mein. The richness of fried rice adds a comforting touch to the meal, making it more filling and memorable. You can choose from a variety of fried rice options, including vegetable fried rice, shrimp fried rice, or pork fried rice.
3. Chinese Pickled Vegetables
For a sweet and sour contrast to the savory lo mein, pair it with Chinese pickled vegetables as a side dish. These pickled vegetables are usually made from cabbage, carrots, and radishes, which add a hint of sourness to counteract the greasiness of the noodles. The bright flavors of the pickled vegetables add a refreshing balance to the dish.
4. Garlic French Beans
Garlic French Beans is a fragrant and delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with lo mein. The slightly crunchy texture and umami flavor of the garlic French beans complement the smooth texture of the noodles. This side dish adds extra flavor and nutrients to the dish, making it a well-balanced choice.
5. Egg Drop Soup
Egg Drop Soup is another light and comforting side dish that pairs perfectly with lo mein. The silky texture of the soup, paired with the umami flavor of the egg and broth, contrasts nicely with the richer lo mein. This dish is warming, comforting, and simple to prepare, yet satisfying.
Protein Pairings for Lo Mein
Lo Mein can be made with a variety of proteins, including chicken, beef, pork, shrimp, or tofu. If you’re looking to pair it with another protein, here are some great options:
1. General Tso’s Chicken
General Tso’s Chicken is a delicious, crispy chicken dish that pairs perfectly with lo mein. The chicken is often coated in a sweet and spicy sauce that contrasts nicely with the savory noodles. This dish adds a hint of crunch and extra flavor to your meal.
2. Sweet and Sour Pork
Sweet and Sour Pork is another protein-rich dish that pairs perfectly with lo mein. The pork is often coated in batter and deep-fried, then tossed in a sweet and sour sauce made from vinegar, sugar, and ketchup. The sweetness of the sauce blends perfectly with the savory flavor of the lo mein.
3. Lemon Chicken
Lemon chicken has a refreshing flavor with just the right amount of sweet and sour, making it a perfect match with lo mein. The chicken is often cooked in a tangy lemon sauce that adds a touch of shine to the dish. The sourness of the lemon counteracts the richness of the lo mein, creating a well-rounded taste.
4. Tofu Stir-Fry
For vegetarians, tofu stir-fry is a great protein option to go with lo mein. The tofu absorbs the umami flavor of the sauce, adding a gentle salty flavor to the dish. You can stir-fry tofu with vegetables and savory sauces to create a satisfying plant-based dish that pairs perfectly with lo mein.
Drinks to Pair with Lo Mein
The right drink can enhance the flavor of lo mein and add a refreshing taste to the dish. Here are some drinks that pair perfectly with lo mein:
1. Green Tea
Green tea is a classic and refreshing drink to go with lo mein. The light grassy flavor of green tea blends perfectly with the umami flavor of the noodles. Green tea also aids in digestion, making it a great choice for a balanced diet.
2. Jasmine Tea
With its fragrant floral aroma, jasmine tea is also a great drink to go with lo mein. The delicate and fragrant taste of jasmine tea adds a sophisticated layer to this dish. It is light and refreshing, complementing the umami flavor of the dish without overpowering it.
3. Chinese beer
If you want a more casual drink with your lo mein, Chinese beer is a good choice. Light, refreshing Chinese beers like Tsingtao or Snow provide a nice contrast to the rich, umami flavor of lo mein. The carbonation and mild taste of beer help cleanse your palate between sips.
4. Lemonade
For a refreshing, non-alcoholic option, consider enjoying lemonade with your lo mein. The sour taste of lemonade can neutralize the greasiness of the dish, providing a refreshing balance. You can also try flavored lemonades, like ginger lemonade, for an added kick.
Top off your meal with dessert
To complete your lo mein, pair it with a light dessert that won’t overpower the main dish and will enhance the overall taste. Here are some great dessert options:
1. Sesame Balls
Sesame balls are a traditional Chinese dessert made from glutinous rice flour and filled with sweet red bean paste. The sesame balls are fried until golden and crispy, with a crispy outer layer and a crunchy texture. The sweetness of the red bean filling is the perfect end to a savory dish like lo mein.
2. Fried Bananas
Fried bananas are a simple yet delicious dessert that pairs perfectly with lo mein. Bananas are coated in a light layer of batter and fried until golden and crispy. The frying process enhances the natural sweetness of the bananas, making for a perfect end to the meal.
3. Mango Pudding
Mango pudding is a popular dessert in Chinese cuisine and is the perfect end to a hearty lo mein meal. The smooth texture of the pudding, combined with the natural sweetness of ripe mangoes, brings a refreshing and delicious taste.
Conclusion
Lo mein is a versatile and delicious dish that pairs well with a variety of appetizers, sides, proteins, and drinks. Whether you’re looking for something light and refreshing or a savory and hearty treat, there are plenty of options to pair with this classic Chinese noodle dish. From spring rolls and dumplings to stir-fried veggies and fried rice, the options are endless. With the right combination, you can create a balanced, flavorful meal that will satisfy everyone. Enjoy your lo mein at these perfect restaurants and take your dining experience to the next level!
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