How to Cook Spicy Desi Chow Mein at Home

Enjoy a flavor-packed Desi Chow Mein this Ramadan with stir-fried lean chicken, colorful vegetables, and juicy, well-seasoned noodles. This Pakistani-style chow mein is easy to make and bursting with bold, spicy flavors!

Ingredients for Spicy Desi Chow Mein

To make flavorful and spicy Desi Chow Mein, you’ll need a mix of fresh vegetables, seasonings, and sauces. Here’s what you’ll need:

Noodles:

• 225g spaghetti or any long noodles (about half a family pack)

For the Sauce:

• 4 tbsp ketchup
• 2 tbsp vinegar
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1½ tbsp hoisin sauce (or substitute with extra soy sauce)
• 1½ tbsp sesame oil (or peanut oil/any cooking oil)
• 1 tbsp cornflour
• ½ tbsp sugar
• ½ tbsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
• ¼ tsp white or black pepper
• ½ chicken bouillon cube

For Stir-Fry:

• 350g chicken breast (thinly sliced)
• 3 tbsp oil
• 2 tbsp chopped garlic
• 3-4 dried button chilies (or any spicy red chilies)

Vegetables:

• 1 medium onion (sliced, about ¾ cup)
• 1 thick carrot (julienned, about ¾ cup)
• 1 large capsicum (sliced, about ½ cup)
• ½ small cabbage (shredded, about 1 cup)
• 3 stalks green onions (white and green parts separated)

Instructions

1. Boil the noodles 1 minute less than the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the sauce by mixing all the sauce ingredients in a bowl.
3. Marinate the chicken by mixing 2 tablespoons of sauce with the sliced chicken. Let it rest for 20 minutes.
4. Heat oil in a wok or pan and sauté garlic and chilies for a few seconds to infuse the oil.
5. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry on high heat for 3-4 minutes until fully cooked.
6. Toss in the vegetables (except green onions) and stir-fry for 2 minutes until slightly softened.
7. Add the prepared sauce and noodles, mixing everything well. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes.
8. Garnish with chopped green onions, give it a final mix, and serve hot!

This spicy and savory desi-style chow mein is the perfect quick and delicious dish for your Iftar table. Enjoy!