Tomato Beef Chow Mein
A quick and satisfying dish featuring tender beef and fresh veggies stir-fried with chow mein noodles in a flavorful tomato sauce.
Prep
15 minutes
Cook
10 minutes
Level
Easy
Serves
4
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Illustrated cooking guide
Step-by-step visual method
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Instructions
- 1
Cook the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- 2
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced beef and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until browned.
- 3
Add the minced garlic and onion to the skillet, stirring for an additional 2 minutes until the onion softens.
- 4
Mix in the diced tomatoes and sliced bell pepper. Cook for another 3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly.
- 5
Stir in the cooked chow mein noodles, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Toss everything together to combine well.
- 6
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with extra vegetables if desired.
Tips
Make sure not to overcook the beef to keep it tender.
Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or snap peas for extra color and nutrition.
Cook smarter
Helpful notes
Practical storage, serving, swap, and troubleshooting notes for a better first try.
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the noodles.
Substitutions
- Use tofu instead of beef for a vegetarian option.
- Any stir-fry sauce can replace the soy and oyster sauce combination.
What to Serve With
- Soy sauce
- Chili paste
- Steamed dumplings
Common Mistakes
- Overcooking the beef can make it tough.
- Using too much soy sauce can make the dish overly salty.
Recipe FAQ
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, chicken can be used as a substitute for beef, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What type of noodles can I use?
Chow mein or any quick-cook Asian noodles work well for this recipe.
Kitchen tools
Helpful Tools for This Recipe
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Wok
Helpful for stir-fries, fried rice, and fast high-heat noodle dishes.
Blender
Helpful for smooth sauces, soups, marinades, and purees.
Skillet
Useful for browning, quick sautes, and weeknight one-pan cooking.
Chef knife
A basic prep tool for vegetables, herbs, aromatics, and proteins.
Cutting board
Keeps prep organized for chopping, slicing, and staging ingredients.
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