Lo mein is one of the most popular meals at Chinese restaurants. The noodles offer a dense texture that, when combined with a variety of stir-fried proteins and vegetables, create a hearty, comforting dish. However, lo mein noodles are not vegan because they are made with eggs.
Fortunately, other plant-based noodles can take the place of lo mein. Here, we explore why lo mein is usually not vegan and what alternatives are available.
Lo mein is not vegan because eggs are the base ingredient. The eggs give the noodles their color and texture. Also, the traditional sauce in lo mein dishes consists of sesame oil, garlic, ginger, oyster or fish sauce, and soy sauce. The inclusion of oyster or fish sauce means it is not safe for vegans, even if the rest of the dish can be ordered with vegetables and tofu.
Fortunately, more vegan lo mein dishes are available at restaurants today. You can also swap lo mein noodles out with different plant-based noodles. Stir-fry them in a sauce that keeps the garlic and ginger and omits oyster sauce and any other animal-sourced ingredients.
Spaghetti and other plant-based Italian pastas made with durum wheat are good substitutes for lo mein noodles. Durum wheat provides a comparable texture and elasticity to lo mein noodles without eggs. Other vegan noodles can be swapped in, as well.
In addition to Italian pasta, there are many types of plant-based noodles from all over the world that can substitute for lo mein noodles. While the textures and flavors of some noodles won't duplicate lo mein, they impart their own unique flavor that, we think, makes them just as tasty.
No, the noodles are made from eggs. Also, most Chinese restaurants top the noodles with animal proteins and a sauce that may contain seafood, chicken stock, or other animal-sourced ingredients.
No, the noodles are typically made with egg and flour. While traditional sauces topping the noodles may have animal-based ingredients, there's usually no dairy.
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