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Vegetable Chowmein (भेज चाउमिन)

About Vegetable Chowmein (भेज चाउमिन)

Vegetable Chowmein is a ubiquitous and beloved street food in Nepal. It's a stir-fried noodle dish, adapted to local tastes, featuring a variety of vegetables and often a savory, slightly tangy sauce. It’s a staple in local restaurants, roadside eateries, and homes across the country, offering a quick, affordable, and satisfying meal.

Picture of Vegetable Chowmein

History

Chowmein, originally a Chinese dish, arrived in Nepal via the Silk Road and trade routes. Over time, the dish has been localized and transformed, with Nepali chefs incorporating locally available vegetables and adjusting the spice levels and sauces to suit the Nepalese palate. The use of spices like turmeric and cumin, along with a balance of tanginess, distinguishes the Nepalese version from its Chinese counterpart. The dish rapidly gained popularity during the rise of street food culture in Nepal. Today, chowmein isn't just a dish; it is a symbol of accessible and delicious food culture in Nepal.

Fact 1

Vegetable Chowmein is one of the most popular street foods in Nepal.

How to prepare?

Noodles (dried) - 250 gramsCabbage (shredded) - 1 cupCarrots (julienned) - 1/2 cupOnion (sliced) - 1 mediumBell Pepper (sliced) - 1/2 cupGreen Onions (chopped) - 2 tablespoonsGarlic (minced) - 2 clovesGinger (minced) - 1 teaspoonSoy Sauce - 2-3 tablespoonsCooking Oil - 2 tablespoonsTurmeric Powder - 1/2 teaspoonCumin Powder - 1/4 teaspoonSalt - to tasteBlack Pepper - to tasteGreen Chilies (optional) - 1-2 (sliced)Vinegar (optional) - 1 teaspoon

Learn step by step to prepare Vegetable Chowmein

  • 1
    Boil the noodles in hot water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside.
  • 2
    Heat oil in a wok or large pan over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and ginger, sauté for a minute until fragrant.
  • 3
    Add sliced onions and green chilies (if using). Stir-fry until onions turn translucent.
  • 4
    Add shredded cabbage, julienned carrots, and sliced bell peppers. Stir-fry until vegetables are slightly tender-crisp.
  • 5
    Add turmeric powder and cumin powder. Stir well to coat the vegetables.
  • 6
    Add the cooked noodles to the pan. Pour soy sauce over it.
  • 7
    Season with salt and black pepper. Stir everything together, ensuring the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce and vegetables.
  • 8
    Add vinegar(if using) at the end. Stir again.
  • 9
    Garnish with chopped green onions before serving hot.
  • 10
    Serve immediately.
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