How to Cook Chow Fun at Home

Chow Fun is a classic Cantonese stir-fried noodle dish, famous for its wide, flat rice noodles, tender meat, crisp vegetables, and savory sauce. Known for its smoky flavor from high-heat cooking, this dish is a favorite at Chinese restaurants, but you can easily make it at home. With simple ingredients and a quick cooking method, you can enjoy authentic homemade Chow Fun in no time.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces (225g) wide rice noodles (fresh or dried, rehydrated)
• 1/2 pound (225g) beef, chicken, or shrimp, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce (optional, for color)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cups bean sprouts
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

1. If using dried rice noodles, soak them in warm water for 20–30 minutes until softened.
2. Drain and set aside. If using fresh noodles, separate them gently to avoid clumping.

Step 2: Marinate the Protein

1. In a bowl, combine sliced beef, chicken, or shrimp with 1 tablespoon soy sauce and a pinch of black pepper.
2. Let it marinate for 10–15 minutes.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Protein

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over high heat.
2. Add the marinated protein and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until nearly cooked through.
3. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add remaining oil and stir-fry onions and garlic for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add bean sprouts and green onions, cooking for another 1–2 minutes.

Step 5: Add Noodles and Sauce

1. Add the prepared rice noodles to the skillet with the vegetables.
2. Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and dark soy sauce if using.
3. Stir-fry everything together for 2–3 minutes, making sure the noodles are coated evenly and heated through.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

1. Return the cooked protein to the skillet and toss to combine.
2. Drizzle with sesame oil for extra flavor.
3. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Chow Fun.

Tips for Perfect Chow Fun

• Use high heat and a wok for authentic “wok hei” flavor.
• Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if needed.
• Fresh rice noodles are ideal, but dried noodles can work if properly soaked.

Making Chow Fun at home is easier than you think, and it allows you to customize the protein and vegetables to your liking. With tender noodles, savory sauce, and fresh ingredients, it’s a quick and delicious meal that rivals your favorite restaurant.