Add 3 ingredients to basic noodles for ‘addictive’ chow mein

If you’re craving a Chinese takeaway without the expense and rigmarole of ordering and waiting for it to be delivered, then a cook has just the solution for you.

Maria Keenan, who has released a series of cookbooks and is known on social media as Oxford Girl Cooks, took to TikTok to share recipe for chow mein noodles, claiming it’s “addictive” flavour can match the very best of local takeaways.

“Ever wondered how you local takeaway makes those addictive chow mein noodles?” she asked her followers. “Let me show you how – it’s easier than you think,” Maria continued as she showcased her ingredients in her wok.

Returning to the beginning of her process, she continued with her recipe: “First add some oil to the pan, then add some chopped spring onions and sliced white onions.” Next, Maria added the noodles themselves, followed by garlic and ginger.

She then revealed the identity of her “secret sauce” that transforms basic noodles into a takeaway-style dish.

You’ll need three ingredients – light soy sauce, dark soy sauce and oyster sauce. “Add a pack of beansprouts and that is it,” Maria said.

Maria went on to explain: “Chow mein is such a versatile dish – you can do a veggie version by adding baby corn and maybe mangetout or even some scrambled egg. Or alternatively, add some cooked chicken or sliced cooked beef – or even prawns.”

She closed: “Either way, it’s a great meal to suit anyone’s palate – and not only that, it is so cheap, it’s quick and easy to make and you’ll save time and money by making everyone’s favourite takeaway meal.”

One of Maria’s followers praised in response: “Followed your recipes and now we love homemade chow mein, and I can’t cook! Thank you for sharing.” A second person quipped: “Omg I want that now for dinner – gonna have to call my takeaway now!”

A third TikTok user with fish and crustacean allergies asked: “Looks lovely, can you suggest an alternative to oyster sauce or just leave it out?”

To which Maria advised: “Just leave it out but it won’t taste the same unfortunately, add white pepper, bit of sugar.”

Whilst a fourth queried Maria for further details: “Please post the amount of soy sauce etc etc and I’ll give it a go.”

She clarified: “I think I used 1tbsp dark soy, 3 tbsp light, 3tbsp oyster, 1/4 tsp white pepper, 1 tbsp sesame oil.”

One thing’s for sure, the dish sounds absolutely delicious!