What is chow fun vs Lo Mein?

Chow fun uses wide, flat rice noodles stir-fried quickly at high heat, often with beef or vegetables, creating a smoky wok hei flavor. Lo mein, on the other hand, uses wheat-based egg noodles that are boiled and then tossed with sauces. The key difference lies in the noodle type and cooking method —chow fun is stir-fried directly, while lo mein is cooked and then mixed.

What is in Chinese chow fun?

Traditional Chinese chow fun contains: Wide rice noodles (hor fun) Protein (beef, chicken, shrimp, or tofu) Bean sprouts and green onions Garlic and soy sauce Sometimes a splash of Shaoxing wine and sesame oil for aroma Optional additions include onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms, depending on the region or chef’s twist.

What’s the difference between chow fun and Pad See Ew?

Both dishes use wide rice noodles, but chow fun is Cantonese and Pad See Ew is Thai . Chow fun focuses on smoky umami flavors with beef or tofu, while Pad See Ew includes dark soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and Chinese broccoli . Pad See Ew tends to be sweeter and more caramelized, whereas chow fun is saltier and more savory.

Are chow fun noodles healthy?

Chow fun can be healthy when cooked mindfully. Rice noodles are gluten-free , and the dish can be loaded with vegetables and lean protein . Limit oil and soy sauce for a lighter version. Opt for plant-based protein and low-sodium soy for added benefits. On average, a serving contains 450–600 calories.

Which is tastier, lo mein or chow mein?

Taste is subjective, but chow fun is often considered more flavorful because of the wok hei technique. Lo mein is softer and saucier, while chow mein (not to be confused with chow fun) is either stir-fried or crispy. Chow fun stands out for its bold, smoky, savory essence and slippery noodle texture.

What are the crunchy Chinese noodles called?

Those are typically called crispy chow mein noodles or fried wonton strips . They’re made from egg noodles that are fried until golden and crisp. While not used in chow fun, they often appear as garnishes or in American Chinese cuisine as crunchy toppings for soups or salads.

Chow Fun: Top 10 Secrets to the Best Stir-Fry Ever

Name: Beef Chow Fun
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 12 oz fresh wide rice noodles (hor fun); 8 oz flank steak, thinly sliced across the grain; 2 tbsp soy sauce (1 tbsp light, 1 tbsp dark); 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry); 1 tsp sesame oil; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup bean sprouts; 3 green onions, chopped (separate whites and greens); 1 tsp cornstarch (for marinating beef); 2 tbsp peanut or canola oil; Optional: oyster sauce or fermented black bean paste

Description

Savory and smoky Cantonese stir-fried wide rice noodles with tender beef, garlic, and green onions. This classic chow fun recipe is quick, flavorful, and easy to customize.

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz fresh wide rice noodles (hor fun)
8 oz flank steak, thinly sliced across the grain
2 tbsp soy sauce (1 tbsp light, 1 tbsp dark)
1 tbsp Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
1 tsp sesame oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup bean sprouts
3 green onions, chopped (separate whites and greens)
1 tsp cornstarch (for marinating beef)
2 tbsp peanut or canola oil
Optional: oyster sauce or fermented black bean paste

Instructions

Marinate the Beef: In a small bowl, combine beef with 1 tsp soy sauce, 1 tsp Shaoxing wine, and 1 tsp cornstarch. Let it sit for 15 minutes.
Prep Noodles: If using fresh noodles, gently separate them. Steam briefly if clumped. For dried noodles, soak and drain as per package.
Cook the Beef: Heat 1 tbsp oil in a wok until smoking. Sear beef slices in a single layer. Cook for 1–2 minutes, then set aside.
Stir-Fry Aromatics: Add another tbsp oil. Stir-fry garlic and white parts of green onions until fragrant.
Add Noodles & Sauce: Add noodles to the wok. Pour in remaining soy sauces, wine, and sesame oil. Toss gently.
Combine & Finish: Return beef to the wok. Add bean sprouts and green onion tops. Stir-fry for 1–2 more minutes until hot.
Serve Immediately: Plate hot for best texture and flavor.

Notes

For a spicier version, add chili flakes or a drizzle of chili oil.
Substitute tofu for beef for a vegetarian option.
Achieve wok hei by ensuring your wok is very hot and ingredients are dry.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dinner, Main Course
Method: Stir-Fry
Cuisine: Chinese, Cantonese

Keywords: chow fun, beef chow fun, Cantonese noodles, stir-fried rice noodles, Chinese dinner, wok hei recipe, easy beef stir-fry