This Chinese-inspired Garlic Sesame Lo Mein is a quick, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Made with spaghetti as the base, this dish mimics traditional lo mein with its rich, umami-packed sauce and crisp vegetables. The aromatic garlic and sesame oil give it an authentic flair, while the simple ingredients make it accessible and allergy-friendly.

Ingredients

For the Noodles

• 12 oz spaghetti (or lo mein noodles)
• 4 cups water for boiling

For the Sauce

• 2 Tablespoons dark soy sauce
• 1 Tablespoon regular soy sauce
• 1 Tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 Tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
• 1/2 Tablespoons sugar

For the Stir-Fry

• 3 cups coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage, carrots, etc.)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 Tablespoon vegetable oil

Procedure

1. Cook the Noodles: Boil the spaghetti in water for about 10 minutes or until al dente.
2. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Let the noodles cool completely.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the dark soy sauce, regular soy sauce, sesame oil, hoisin sauce, white pepper, and sugar until well combined. Set aside.
4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables: Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the coleslaw mix and stir-fry for 2 minutes. Be careful not to overcook; the vegetables should remain slightly chrisp.
5. Combine Everything: Add the cooled noodles to the skillet with the vegetables.
6. Pour the prepared sauce over the noodles. Toss everything together until the noodles are evenly coated, and the dish is heated through.
7. Serve: Transfer the lo mein to a serving dish. Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately.

Tips and Variations

• Add Protein: Include cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for added protein.
• Vegetable Swap: Use broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas if coleslaw mix is unavailable.
• Make It Spicy: Add a drizzle of chili oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat.

This Garlic Sesame Lo Mein is the perfect blend of savory, sweet, and smoky flavors, with just the right amount of crunch. A delightful way to bring Chinese-inspired flavors to your table!