Soy Sauce Chow Mein is a dish many Hong Kong families grew up eating.
It doesn’t rely on fancy ingredients — instead, it’s all about technique. The heat must be high, the noodles dry and springy, and the soy sauce fragrant but never overpowering.
On nights when the fridge is almost empty, or when you want something quick yet comforting, a pack of egg noodles and a handful of bean sprouts are often enough.
This dish reminds us that the simplest home-style food often carries the strongest sense of warmth and familiarity.
Soy Sauce Chow Mein (Hong Kong–Style)
Ingredients
Seasoning
Steps
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Prepare the sauce
In a small bowl, mix light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, and oyster sauce until well combined. Set aside.
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Cook the noodles
Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the noodles and cook until about 80% done (around 1 minute).
Drain immediately and toss with a little oil to prevent sticking.
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Stir-fry the vegetables
Heat a wok over high heat with oil.
Add sliced onion and stir-fry until fragrant.
Add bean sprouts and chives, toss quickly, then remove from the wok and set aside.
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Fry the noodles
Using the same wok, add a little oil and spread the noodles out gently.
Pan-fry over medium-high heat for about 1 minute until slightly golden.
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Season & Combine
Pour the prepared sauce along the side of the wok.
Use chopsticks to quickly toss and coat the noodles evenly.
Return the vegetables to the wok and stir-fry together for about 1 minute until everything is well mixed and heated through.
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Finish
Drizzle a few drops of sesame oil along the edge of the wok.
Give it a final quick toss and serve immediately.
Optional: garnish with sesame seeds or chopped scallions.
Cooking Tips 烹飪技巧
- Do not overcook the noodles - Over-soaking or over-boiling will make the noodles break easily during stir-frying.
- High heat is key- Soy Sauce Chow Mein should always be cooked over high heat to achieve a dry texture and wok aroma.
- Pre-mix the sauce - Adding the sauce all at once helps the noodles absorb flavor evenly and prevents uneven coloring.
- Add bean sprouts last - This keeps them crisp and prevents excess moisture.
- Boost aroma if desired - A little minced garlic, white sesame seeds, or black pepper can enhance fragrance.
- Prevent sticking - Toss the noodles with a small amount of oil before frying to help separate the strands.
