Name: Irresistible Shanghai Fried Noodles for a Quick Dinner Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 200 g thick noodles (Use fresh for best texture, dried works too.); 150 g pork, thinly sliced (Chicken or tofu can be substituted.); 1 cup cabbage, shredded (Adds crunch and color.); 1 cup mushrooms, sliced (Shiitake or button mushrooms are great.); 2 pieces green onions, chopped (For garnish and freshness.); 2 tbsp soy sauce (Backbone of flavor.); 1 tbsp oyster sauce (Adds depth of umami.); 1 tsp sesame oil (Enhances nutty flavors.); 1 tbsp cooking oil (Use high smoke point oil.); salt and pepper (To taste.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of sizzling pork mingled with savory soy sauce, transporting me straight to the bustling streets of Shanghai. This is where the magic of Shanghai Fried Noodles happens—a delightful dish that not only satisfies your cravings but also brings the warmth of homemade comfort food to your table. With just 30 minutes of your time, you can create a meal bursting with vibrant veggies and hearty noodles that will impress your friends and family. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to ditch the fast food routine while enjoying a quick, delectable dinner. Ready to discover the secret behind this irresistible recipe? Let’s dive in!

Why You'll Love Shanghai Fried Noodles

Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute get-togethers.

Flavor Explosion: The perfect blend of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil elevates simple ingredients into a heavenly feast.

Nutrient-Rich: Packed with colorful veggies like cabbage and mushrooms, it's not just a treat for your taste buds but also a boost for your health.

Customizable Delight: Feel free to add your favorite proteins or vegetables; these noodles are versatile and adaptable to your family’s preferences.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether for a casual dinner or special occasion, these Shanghai Fried Noodles are sure to impress—it’s a dish that brings everyone together!

To learn more about using fresh ingredients to enhance your cooking, check out our guide on quick veggie prep tips.

Shanghai Fried Noodles Ingredients

Unleash the flavor with these must-have ingredients!

For the Noodles
• 200 g thick noodles – Use fresh noodles for the best texture, but dried will work if that’s what you have.

For the Pork
• 150 g pork, thinly sliced – Chicken or tofu can be great substitutes for a different twist!

For the Vegetables
• 1 cup cabbage, shredded – Adds crunch and a pop of color to your dish.
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced – Provides earthiness; try shiitake or button mushrooms for variety.
• 2 green onions, chopped – Freshens up the dish and gives it a lovely garnish!

For the Sauce
• 2 tablespoon soy sauce – This is the backbone of flavor in your Shanghai Fried Noodles.
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce – Offers a depth of umami; you can use mushroom sauce for a vegetarian option.
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil – Just a little goes a long way in enhancing the nutty flavor profile.
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil – Use a high smoke point oil for stir-frying.

Seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste – Always adjust to your preference for the perfect finish!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Shanghai Fried Noodles

Step 1: Marinate the Pork
Begin by placing the thinly sliced pork in a bowl and adding the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well to ensure the pork is evenly coated. Allow it to marinate for 15 minutes, so the flavors penetrate the meat, enhancing the overall taste of your Shanghai Fried Noodles.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles
While the pork is marinating, cook the thick noodles according to the package instructions in a pot of boiling water. This usually takes about 3–5 minutes. Once al dente, drain the noodles in a colander and set them aside. They should be slightly firm, providing the perfect texture for your dish.

Step 3: Heat the Pan
In a large skillet or wok, heat the cooking oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers, indicating it's hot enough for stir-frying. This step typically takes about 1–2 minutes. Ensure your pan is heated properly to achieve that delightful caramelization on the pork, which is key to the flavor of your Shanghai Fried Noodles.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Pork
Add the marinated pork to the hot pan and stir-fry for about 3–4 minutes. Keep the pork moving to brown it evenly until it turns a rich golden color. The aroma of the sizzling meat will fill your kitchen, making your mouth water in anticipation of the delicious Shanghai Fried Noodles.

Step 5: Add the Vegetables
Next, toss in the shredded cabbage and sliced mushrooms. Stir-fry for another 3–4 minutes until the cabbage is tender and slightly wilted. The mushrooms should be aromatic and cooked through, blending beautifully with the pork to create a hearty filling for your Shanghai Fried Noodles.

Step 6: Combine the Noodles
Now, add the cooked noodles directly into the pan with the pork and vegetables. Gently toss everything together for about 2 minutes, ensuring the noodles are coated with the flavorful mix. Look for a harmonious blend of colors and textures, signaling that your Shanghai Fried Noodles are coming together perfectly.

Step 7: Season and Finish
Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste over the noodle mixture, stirring continuously for an additional minute. This final touch enhances all the delightful flavors and ensures every bite is delicious. Your Shanghai Fried Noodles should now be aromatic and visually appealing, ready to serve.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, sprinkle the chopped green onions on top for a fresh, vibrant finish. This last step adds color and a burst of flavor, making your dish not only tasty but also tempting to the eyes. Plate your Shanghai Fried Noodles and get ready to enjoy the delightful feast you've crafted!

What to Serve with Shanghai Fried Noodles?

Elevate your dining experience with delightful companions that bring out the best flavors in your dish.

Spring Rolls: Crispy and crunchy, these rolls filled with vegetables pair perfectly, offering a delightful contrast to the noodles. Enjoy them dipped in sweet chili sauce for an extra flavor burst.
Stir-Fried Vegetables: Bright, colorful veggies like bell peppers and snap peas provide freshness and crunch, adding a vibrant side that complements the rich flavors of Shanghai Fried Noodles beautifully.
Steamed Dumplings: Soft and savory, these dumplings filled with pork or veggies create a satisfying duo with the noodles. The filled pockets of goodness add texture and a touch of indulgence.
Garlic Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed in garlic bring a delightful crunch and aromatic flavor that's a perfect balance to the softness of the noodles.
Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and light, this cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar adds a zesty contrast to the savory noodles, cleansing the palate between bites.
Jasmine Rice: Fluffy and fragrant, jasmine rice serves as a neutral side that absorbs the flavorful sauces of the stir-fried noodles, making each bite irresistibly tasty.
Chilled Green Tea: Refreshing and subtly fragrant, chilled green tea is a soothing beverage that balances the savory richness of the dish, completing your meal perfectly.
Chocolate Cake: End the meal with a slice of decadent chocolate cake. Its sweetness is a lovely contrast to the savory flavors, rounding out your dinner in style.

Expert Tips for Shanghai Fried Noodles

Fresh Noodles Best: Use fresh thick noodles instead of dried for the most authentic texture; they soak up flavors better.

Avoid Overcooking: Don’t over-marinate the pork; 15 minutes is perfect. Too long can make it mushy and lose texture.

High Heat Essential: Always cook on medium-high heat for stir-frying. This ensures a beautiful sear and enhances the flavors in your Shanghai Fried Noodles.

Mix Veggies: Feel free to mix various veggies like bell peppers or carrots for a colorful and nutrient-rich dish. Just add them at the right time to avoid sogginess!

Taste as You Go: Always taste as you season your dish. You want a balanced flavor with the umami of soy sauce and oyster sauce shining through.

Make Ahead Options

These Shanghai Fried Noodles are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save valuable time during busy weeknights! You can marinate the pork and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, allowing the flavors to deepen. Additionally, you can cook the noodles and vegetables separately a day in advance, ensuring they are ready to be assembled. When you're ready to serve, simply stir-fry the marinated pork, add the pre-cooked noodles and veggies, and toss everything together for a quick one-pan meal. This method keeps your Shanghai Fried Noodles just as delicious while giving you the freedom to enjoy home-cooked goodness with minimal effort!

Shanghai Fried Noodles Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and tailor this dish to match your taste buds!

Dairy-Free: Simply omit any dairy and ensure sauces are free from milk-based products for a delicious version that everyone can enjoy.
Vegetarian: Swap the pork for tofu or tempeh, marinated in the same sauces for a hearty, meat-free meal that’s bursting with flavor.
Add Heat: Toss in some sliced fresh chili or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes while stir-frying for a spicy kick that’ll tantalize your taste buds.
Noodle Alternatives: Try using rice noodles or zucchini noodles for a gluten-free option or a lighter take that still packs a punch in flavor.
Extra Crunch: Incorporate roasted peanuts or cashews as a garnish just before serving to add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor contrast.
Flavor Twist: Replace soy sauce with a mix of coconut aminos and tamari for a unique, savory profile that's both rich and satisfying.
Load Up on Veggies: Boost the nutritional profile by adding bell peppers, snap peas, or bok choy; the more, the merrier for a colorful and nutritious dish.

For tips on incorporating seasonal ingredients, you might enjoy our insights on cooking with fresh produce! Embrace the art of cooking by mixing and matching flavors to create your perfect bowl of Shanghai Fried Noodles.

Storage Tips for Shanghai Fried Noodles

Room Temperature: Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture; leftover Shanghai Fried Noodles can be left out for up to 2 hours before storing.

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly in a skillet with a splash of oil to revive the texture.

Freezer: You can freeze Shanghai Fried Noodles for up to 3 months. Portion them in airtight freezer bags; defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, use a skillet or wok over medium heat, adding a splash of soy sauce and a bit of water to steam them back to life.

Shanghai Fried Noodles Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best noodles for this recipe?
Absolutely! For Shanghai Fried Noodles, I recommend using fresh thick noodles for the best texture and flavor. If fresh noodles aren't available, look for dried thick noodles; just make sure to cook them according to the package instructions until they are al dente.

How should I store leftover Shanghai Fried Noodles?
Very good question! You can store leftover Shanghai Fried Noodles in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to reheat them thoroughly in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil to help restore their delightful texture.

Can I freeze Shanghai Fried Noodles?
Yes, you can! To freeze Shanghai Fried Noodles, portion them into airtight freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them, defrost in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a skillet with a bit of water or soy sauce for added flavor.

What should I do if my noodles become mushy?
If your noodles end up mushy, it’s often due to overcooking or over-marination. To avoid this in the future, cook your noodles following the package guidelines, taking care not to over-marinate the pork—15 minutes is just the right amount for tender meat without losing its texture!

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Great question! If you’re cooking for others, be mindful of any allergies. The Shanghai Fried Noodles contain soy sauce, which has gluten, and oyster sauce, which might not be suitable for vegetarians. Feel free to substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free versions, and use mushroom sauce instead of oyster sauce to keep it vegetarian.