Homemade Chow Mein Sauce
Making homemade chow mein sauce is incredibly easy and tastes so much better than store-bought versions. This homemade chow mein sauce recipe uses simple ingredients you probably already have to create a savory, slightly sweet sauce perfect for noodles and stir-fries.
Whether making chicken, vegetable, or shrimp chow mein, this versatile sauce brings authentic Chinese takeout flavor to your home kitchen. The best part is it takes only 5 minutes to mix together.
This sauce works with any type of chow mein and pairs perfectly with chicken, beef, pork, shrimp, or just vegetables.
Why make your own chow mein sauce:
- Control ingredients and sodium levels
- Costs less than bottled versions
- Tastes fresher and more authentic
- No preservatives or artificial flavors
- Ready in just 5 minutes
- Customize to your taste
How to Make Chow Mein Sauce
Making chow mein sauce requires no cooking skills. Simply mix all ingredients together in a bowl and it’s ready to use.
Ingredients
Main sauce ingredients:
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (regular or low-sodium)
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp dark soy sauce (for color)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tsp sugar
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
Using regular and dark soy sauce gives the sauce its brown color and deep flavor. Oyster sauce is essential for authentic umami taste. Sesame oil adds a nutty aroma. Fresh garlic and ginger bring authentic Chinese flavor.
Instructions
- Whisk together soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and oyster sauce in a medium bowl
- Add sesame oil and sugar, stirring until sugar dissolves
- In small bowl, mix cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of the chicken broth until smooth
- Add remaining chicken broth to sauce mixture
- Stir in minced garlic and grated ginger
- Add cornstarch slurry to sauce and whisk well
- Use immediately in stir-fry or store in refrigerator
To use in cooking: Add sauce during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Stir so the sauce coats all noodles and vegetables evenly. The heat will thicken the sauce. Add water if too thick or cook longer if too thin.
Notes
Soy sauce options: Use low-sodium soy sauce if watching salt intake. Dark soy sauce is aged longer and sweeter. Find it in Asian grocery stores.
Oyster sauce substitute: Use hoisin sauce if you can’t eat oyster sauce. Vegetarian oyster sauce made from mushrooms also works well.
Thickening the sauce: Cornstarch slurry thickens sauce when heated. Mix well before adding to prevent lumps. Without cornstarch, the sauce will be thinner but still flavorful.
Adjusting flavor: Taste before using and adjust to preference. Add more sugar for sweetness or soy sauce for saltiness. White pepper or red pepper flakes add heat.
Storage tips: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Shake or stir before using. Freeze in ice cube trays for up to 3 months.
Making it gluten-free: Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce. Check that oyster sauce is also gluten-free.
Nutrition
Nutrition Facts (Per 2 Tablespoon Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 45 |
| Total Fat | 2g |
| Saturated Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 780mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0g |
| Sugars | 3g |
| Protein | 1g |
Based on 6 servings per recipe
This sauce is low in calories but high in sodium. Using low-sodium versions reduces sodium content. Two tablespoons is usually enough to flavor one serving of chow mein.
Conclusion
Making homemade chow mein sauce is quick, easy, and tastier than bottled versions. This simple recipe combines soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and other ingredients to create authentic Chinese restaurant flavor. Mix everything in 5 minutes and use immediately or store for later. The sauce keeps refrigerated for up to a week, making meal prep easier.
FAQs
Can I make chow mein sauce without oyster sauce?
Yes, use hoisin sauce as a substitute. Vegetarian oyster sauce made from mushrooms also works well.
How long does homemade chow mein sauce last?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Freeze in ice cube trays for up to 3 months.
Is chow mein sauce the same as lo mein sauce?
They’re very similar with slight differences. Chow mein sauce is usually slightly thicker. This recipe works for both.
Can I make this sauce less salty?
Yes, use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce the amount. You can also add more water or broth to dilute saltiness.
What’s the difference between dark and regular soy sauce?
Dark soy sauce is aged longer, thicker, sweeter, and less salty. It adds rich color to dishes.
