For the Stir-Fry

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 oz chow mein noodles (or substitute with egg noodles or thin rice noodles)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral cooking oil)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced (or ½ a large onion)
• 1 cup shredded cabbage (Napa or green cabbage works well)
• 1 cup bean sprouts
• 2 scallions, sliced into 1-inch pieces

For the Sauce

• 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (for extra depth; use a vegetarian alternative if desired)
• 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce (adjust for spice preference)
• 1 teaspoon rice vinegar (or lime juice for a hint of citrus)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance the heat)
• ½ teaspoon sesame oil (for a nutty finish)
• Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat

Prepare the Noodles

1. 1Cook the chow mein noodles according to the package directions until al dente.
2. 2Drain and lightly toss with a teaspoon of oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.

Marinate the Shrimp

1. 1In a bowl, combine 1 tablespoon soy sauce and a dash of chili garlic sauce.
2. 2Add the shrimp and mix gently to coat. Let marinate for about 10 minutes while you prep the vegetables.

Stir-Fry the Vegetables

1. 1Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large wok or deep skillet over medium-high heat.
2. 2Add minced garlic and grated ginger. Sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. 3Add the sliced onion and red bell pepper; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
4. 4Toss in the shredded cabbage and bean sprouts, stirring continuously to retain crunch.

Cook the Shrimp

1. 1Push the vegetables to the side of the pan and add the marinated shrimp.
2. 2Stir-fry the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are just cooked through.

Combine and Finish

1. 1Add the pre-cooked noodles and sliced scallions to the wok.
2. 2In a small bowl, mix together the remaining sauce ingredients: the rest of the soy sauce, oyster sauce, chili garlic sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and sesame oil.
3. 3Pour the sauce over the noodles, shrimp, and vegetables.
4. 4Toss everything together quickly, ensuring the noodles are evenly coated and heated through (about 1-2 minutes).
5. 5Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat if desired.

Serve and Garnish

Plate the dish while hot.