If you are into Chinese food, you are probably familiar with lo mein and its popularity all over the world.
If you are new to it, imagine a delicious mix of egg noodles, some chopped veggies, and meat - it could be anything, including chicken, beef or seafood.
The mix is incredible and makes a suitable lunch or dinner - a bit heavy, but great to impress your guests.
Now, when it comes to making a good impression, figuring out what to serve with lo mein could be a bit of a problem - here is what you need to know.
Why Consider Serving Side Dishes with Lo Mein?
In theory, lo mein is quite complete. You have noodles, which are fulfilling.
You have delicious veggies rich in vitamins and protein rich meat - it makes no difference what type of meat you choose.
If you only cook for yourself, you can probably do with lo mein by itself.
But then, everything changes if you want to impress some guests - a big bowl of lo mein just will not do.
Despite being a complete meal, there are quite a few good choices in terms of side dishes, so you can add a bit of extra to the table.
What to Serve with Lo Mein? 7 BEST Side Dishes
Here are some great dishes when not sure what to serve with lo mein.
1. Baked Chicken Breast
Baked chicken breast will add to your meal - excellent if you want to impress.
Chicken works with other types of meat too.
You can match it with chicken-based lo mein, but other types of meat are also accepted.
This is the type of side dish you prepare if you have a bit of extra time on your hands.
Just like the meat in your lo mein, the baked chicken breast will taste great with egg noodles and can complement your dish like nothing else.
2. General Tso's Cauliflower
This dish is a classic in Chinese cuisine.
While you can find different recipes for cauliflower in local takeaway shops, this recipe in particular is not too common.
This is actually a plus because you are about to impress your guests with something different.
All in all, the final result will give you avocado-tasting cauliflower, savory edges, a bit of crispiness, and a caramelized profile - what else can you ask for?
The slightly crispy texture is excellent for the lo mein, while the taste and aroma will add to the overall dining experience.
3. Garlicky Sesame Broccoli
You can come up with this side dish even if you already have some broccoli inside the lo mein - the effect is even better if you do not though.
This side dish takes about five minutes of cooking.
Once done, you have the strong flavor of garlic that works well with lo mein.
Then, you have nutty and hearty sesame flavors, not to mention the crunchy broccoli - it is not all about the taste, but also about the texture.
Make more of this garlicky goodness than what you need because chances are your guests will fight for it.
4. Chinese Vegetable Spring Rolls
Chinese vegetable spring rolls make the perfect side dish for lo mein.
They are fulfilling, easy to prepare and eat.
Moreover, since lo mein is quite soft with a bit of crunch from veggies, the crispy rolls will easily complement the texture.
The mix will push your lo mein to another level.
You can have them plain, but you can also get a few dips on the table.
This is the type of side dish that will turn a boring lo mein into requests for second servings.
Besides, the veggies inside your rolls will match the ones in the lo mein.
5. Sesame Miso Spinach
A vegetable-based side dish has a simple purpose with lo mein - making it feel lighter.
After all, a large serving can fulfill you in no time.
Throw in some veggies, and you will feel differently.
Spinach adds a bit of green and a leafy flavor - ideal for lo mein.
However, plain spinach can be dull - how about some sesame miso on top of it then?
Maintain the same Chinese cuisine profile with your side dish and bring in some umami, nutty aromas that can definitely complement the lo mein.
The side dish is suitable in small amounts, so do not prepare too much of it.
6. Sauteed Cucumber
This type of side dish may seem a bit unusual at first.
Your taste buds will need a few bites to get used to it.
But then, everything changes once they realize how well it works with lo mein.
The dish is weird because cucumbers are normally used pickled or raw.
However, this preparation brings in unique flavors that will support the lo mein.
The secret to obtaining a perfect side dish is in the overall texture.
You need to keep cucumbers a bit crispy and fresh.
In other words, make sure you squeeze plenty of water out.
7. Brown Rice
Brown rice is a staple food in Chinese cuisine. But on the same note, it may feel a bit weird in this combo.
After all, the lo mein is heavy enough. While not as heavy, the rice is just as fulfilling.
However, when mixed together, these two foods work wonders.
Stick to brown rice for an even more intense flavor.
The hearty aroma will blend into the lo mein, making it more intense.
You can enhance the brown rice with veggies, but you can also use classic pot rice to save a bit of time.
