This is one of those recipes that just makes you feel good. When you need some comfort food without regret later, the fresh vegetables and noodles soak up the sauce that hits just the spot. With just a quick mix of the sauce and then a few minutes in the Instant Pot, you’ll be surprised by just how simple that takeout fix can become. This instant pot lo mein recipe is so much easier than the traditional method of cooking noodles by first boiling and then stir-frying in a wok. You are saving time by cooking everything in a single pot, along with the benefit of lesser dishes to wash. Note that the noodles cooked in the instant pot are a bit stickier, but also very moist and delicious. This recipe for Lo Mein noodles in the pressure cooker is a one-pot wonder. You will love how easy it is to put together and have dinner ready. It is great for meal prep too. If you are new to the instant pot, check out my quick start beginner guide.
Watch How to Make Instant Pot Vegetable Lo Mein
What is Lo Mein?
Lo Mein is a Chinese noodle dish. The noodles are made with wheat flour and egg and are generally boiled to softness. Typically Lo Mein noodles are tossed in a light sauce and served with vegetables.
Lo Mein vs. Chow Mein
Lo Mein and Chow Mein are very similar dishes. The big difference between Lo Mein and Chow Mein is the texture of the noodles. Lo Mein noodles are traditionally boiled or steamed for a soft, smooth noodle texture. Chow Mein noodles are typically pan fried so they have a crispier, firmer texture. Both dishes incorporate the same foundations of flavor and ingredients. Feel free to call this dish Hakka Noodles, Chow Mein or your very loved Lo Mein.
Ingredients in Vegetable Lo Mein
The great thing about this Lo Mein recipe is that you can customize it to your tastes. Here are the ingredients that I recommend you start with for the noodles and sauce:
Noodles – use spaghetti (works best), or use thicker chow mein or hakka noodles Veggie broth Sesame oil Ginger paste Minced garlic Soy sauce Vinegar Red chili sauce Brown sugar
My favorite veggies to use in this easy Lo Mein recipe are cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, green onion, and broccoli. You can easily add some snap peas and mushrooms if you like. Just remember to add the snap peas in the last few minutes, like the broccoli, so it doesn’t overcook.
Where to Buy Noodles?
You can find noodles at your local Asian foods store or in the Asian section of your nearest international food store. I recommend using chow mein, hakka noodles, or Spaghetti in this Instant Pot Vegetable Lo Mein recipe. Make sure to not use instant noodles in this recipe. As the name suggests, they are instant and would not work well when pressure cooked.
How to make Vegetable Lo Mein in the Instant Pot?
Let’s start by gathering the ingredients. This recipe is very simple and uses mostly staples you’re likely to have on hand. In a bowl, add all the sauce ingredients. Whisk until evenly combined. Add the noodles to the Instant Pot. Then, pour the sauce into the pot above the noodles. Add all of your veggies except for the broccoli. It will be added closer to the end.
Seal your Instant Pot and set it to manual, high pressure, for 4 minutes. (Note: When using spaghetti, check the cooking time on the package. Usually, the cook time in the pressure cooker is half the cook time on the package minus one minute. eg if the package says 12 minutes, cook for 5 minutes in the instant pot) When Instant Pot is done cooking, do a quick pressure release. Open the lid and add the broccoli florets. Stir the noodles with tongs several times, breaking up any that may have clumped together during cooking. Close the lid for 3 minutes so the broccoli gets cooked. Make sure to cut the broccoli to small florets. Open the lid. Sprinkle some green onions and sesame seeds, then serve.
Tips to make the best Instant Pot Lo Mein
Use the right variety of noodles. Make sure to pour the sauce over the noodles, so they all get a bit wet. Take the steel insert out of the instant pot once cooked so the noodles don’t overcook. Adjust the sauces to your taste when serving. This noodles recipe is very versatile; you can change the vegetables and sauces to your preference. You could also add sauteed tofu or another favorite protein.
How to Serve Vegetable Lo Mein?
This Lo Mein recipe is hearty enough to stand on its own, served on a plate or in a bowl with chopsticks. But if you want to make it into a more substantial meal, it would pair well with other Chinese-inspired recipes, such as Sweet Corn Soup, Din Tai Fung Green Beans, or Garlic Chili Potatoes. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions to add extra texture and flavor. Check out other Instant Pot recipes to enjoy:
Coconut Rice – a gluten-free and vegan side dish made with sweet coconut milk. Thai Curried Butternut Squash Soup – a warm and creamy soup that is perfect on a cool day. Thai Green Curry with tofu – a delicious vegan entree made in less than 20 minutes.
