Cooking the Perfect Panda Express Chow Mein at Home

Panda Express is a popular fast-food chain known for its mouth-watering Chinese-American dishes, and one of its most beloved menu items is the Panda Express Chow Mein. This stir-fried noodle dish has captured the hearts of many, and its flavor and texture have become a benchmark for chow mein lovers everywhere. If you’re craving this delicious dish but don’t want to leave the comfort of your home, you’re in luck! In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of cooking the perfect Panda Express Chow Mein at home.

Understanding the Basics of Panda Express Chow Mein

Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to understand the basics of Panda Express Chow Mein. This dish is a variation of traditional Chinese chow mein, which typically consists of stir-fried noodles, vegetables, and sometimes meat or seafood. Panda Express’s version is unique in that it uses a specific type of noodle, a proprietary sauce, and a combination of vegetables and meat that sets it apart from other chow mein dishes.

The Importance of Ingredients

To cook authentic Panda Express Chow Mein, you’ll need to use the right ingredients. Here are some key components to focus on:

• Noodles: Panda Express uses a specific type of noodle called “chow mein noodles” or “pan-fried noodles.” These noodles are typically made from wheat flour, water, and salt, and are designed to be stir-fried. You can find these noodles at most Asian grocery stores or online.
• Vegetables: Panda Express Chow Mein typically includes a combination of cabbage, carrots, bean sprouts, and scallions. You can use fresh or frozen vegetables, depending on your preference.
• Meat: Panda Express offers a variety of protein options, including chicken, beef, and tofu. For this recipe, we’ll focus on chicken, but feel free to substitute with your preferred protein.
• Sauce: The sauce is a critical component of Panda Express Chow Mein. The exact recipe is a trade secret, but we can approximate it using a combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil.

Preparing the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, make sure you have all the ingredients ready to go. Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing the ingredients:

Chopping the Vegetables

• Cut the cabbage into thin strips, removing any tough or wilted leaves.
• Peel and grate the carrots, or use pre-shredded carrots.
• Cut the bean sprouts in half, or use pre-cut sprouts.
• Thinly slice the scallions, using both the white and green parts.

Marinating the Chicken

• Cut the chicken into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick.
• In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch.
• Add the chicken to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.

Cooking the Noodles

• Cook the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves boiling them for 2-3 minutes, then rinsing them with cold water to stop the cooking process.
• Drain the noodles and set them aside.

Cooking the Panda Express Chow Mein

Now that your ingredients are ready, it’s time to start cooking. Here’s a step-by-step guide to cooking the perfect Panda Express Chow Mein:

Heating the Wok or Large Skillet

• Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
• Once the oil is hot, add 1 tablespoon of sesame oil and swirl it around to coat the pan.

Stir-Frying the Vegetables

• Add the chopped cabbage, carrots, and bean sprouts to the pan. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until the vegetables are slightly tender.
• Add the sliced scallions and stir-fry for another minute.

Adding the Chicken

• Add the marinated chicken to the pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until it’s cooked through.
• Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Adding the Noodles and Sauce

• Add the cooked noodles to the pan and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, or until they’re well coated with the vegetable mixture.
• In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon of hoisin sauce, and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil.
• Pour the sauce over the noodles and stir-fry for another minute, or until the sauce is well combined.

Combining the Chicken and Noodles

• Add the cooked chicken back into the pan and stir-fry for another minute, or until everything is well combined.

Tips and Variations

Here are some tips and variations to help you take your Panda Express Chow Mein to the next level:

• Use a wok: If you have a wok, use it! The shape and size of the wok allow for quick and efficient stir-frying.
• Add aromatics: Consider adding aromatics like garlic, ginger, or onions to the pan before stir-frying the vegetables.
• Use different protein: Feel free to substitute the chicken with beef, tofu, or your preferred protein.
• Add extra vegetables: Consider adding other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or snow peas to the stir-fry.

Conclusion

Cooking the perfect Panda Express Chow Mein at home is easier than you think. By using the right ingredients, preparing them properly, and following the cooking instructions, you can create a dish that’s remarkably similar to the original. Remember to experiment with different ingredients and variations to make the dish your own. Happy cooking!

What is the secret ingredient in Panda Express Chow Mein?

The secret ingredient in Panda Express Chow Mein is a combination of ingredients, but the key component is the savory sauce made with a mixture of soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil. This sauce gives the dish its distinctive flavor and aroma. To replicate this sauce at home, you can use a store-bought combination of these ingredients or make your own by mixing them in the right proportions.

To make the sauce, start by combining 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon of hoisin sauce, and 1 teaspoon of sesame oil in a small bowl. Whisk the mixture until it’s smooth and well combined. You can adjust the proportions to taste, but this is a good starting point. This sauce is the foundation of the dish, so make sure to get it right.

What type of noodles should I use for Panda Express Chow Mein?

The type of noodles used in Panda Express Chow Mein is a crucial component of the dish. The restaurant uses a specific type of noodle called “chow mein noodles” or “stir-fry noodles.” These noodles are typically made from wheat flour and are designed to be stir-fried quickly. You can find these noodles at most Asian grocery stores or online.

If you can’t find chow mein noodles, you can substitute them with other types of noodles, such as rice noodles or egg noodles. However, keep in mind that the flavor and texture may be slightly different. To get the best results, try to find the authentic chow mein noodles. They are usually packaged in a yellow or orange bag and have a distinctive texture.

How do I cook the noodles for Panda Express Chow Mein?

Cooking the noodles for Panda Express Chow Mein is a straightforward process. Start by boiling a large pot of water and adding a tablespoon of vegetable oil to prevent the noodles from sticking. Once the water is boiling, add the noodles and cook them according to the package instructions. Typically, chow mein noodles take around 3-5 minutes to cook.

Once the noodles are cooked, drain them in a colander and rinse them with cold water to stop the cooking process. This will help the noodles retain their texture and prevent them from becoming mushy. After rinsing, set the noodles aside and prepare the stir-fry ingredients.

What vegetables should I use for Panda Express Chow Mein?

The vegetables used in Panda Express Chow Mein are a key component of the dish. The restaurant typically uses a combination of cabbage, carrots, and bean sprouts. You can use these same vegetables at home, or you can customize the dish to your liking by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms.

When selecting vegetables, choose ones that are fresh and crisp. Avoid using wilted or soggy vegetables, as they can affect the texture of the dish. Also, make sure to chop the vegetables into thin strips or slices, so they cook quickly and evenly.

How do I make the stir-fry for Panda Express Chow Mein?

Making the stir-fry for Panda Express Chow Mein is a quick and easy process. Start by heating a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped vegetables and cook them until they’re tender-crisp. This should take around 2-3 minutes.

Next, add the cooked noodles to the skillet or wok and stir-fry them with the vegetables. Add the savory sauce and stir-fry everything together for another minute. Make sure to stir constantly to prevent the noodles from sticking to the pan. Finally, add any additional ingredients, such as cooked chicken or shrimp, and stir-fry everything together.

Can I customize Panda Express Chow Mein to my taste?

Yes, you can customize Panda Express Chow Mein to your taste by adding or substituting different ingredients. For example, you can add cooked chicken, beef, or shrimp to make the dish more substantial. You can also add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to increase the nutritional value.

Additionally, you can adjust the amount of savory sauce to your taste. If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can add more sauce. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use less sauce. You can also add other seasonings, such as soy sauce or sesame oil, to enhance the flavor.

How do I serve Panda Express Chow Mein?

Serving Panda Express Chow Mein is a simple process. Once the stir-fry is complete, transfer the noodles and vegetables to a serving platter or individual plates. You can garnish the dish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or sliced almonds to add color and texture.

Serve the dish hot, straight from the wok or skillet. You can also serve it with additional ingredients, such as fortune cookies or egg rolls, to make it a complete meal. If you’re serving a crowd, you can keep the dish warm by placing it in a chafing dish or warming tray.