La Choy Hamburger Chow Mein Recipe – Hungarian Chef

Join me on a delightful culinary journey as we delve into the savory and aromatic world of La Choy Hamburger Chow Mein. 

This beloved dish combines the rich flavors of ground beef, crisp vegetables, and a tantalizing array of seasonings to create a dish that is as comforting as it is satisfying. 

Let’s uncover the secrets behind this delectable recipe, from its tantalizing taste to its effortless preparation.

What is La Choy Hamburger Chow Mein?

Picture this – a steaming plate of savory chow mein noodles tossed with tender ground beef, crunchy vegetables, and a savory sauce that dances on your taste buds. That, my friends, is the essence of La Choy Hamburger Chow Mein. 

This iconic dish is a fusion of Asian and American flavors, creating a unique culinary experience that has stood the test of time.

What Does It Taste Like?

The first bite of La Choy Hamburger Chow Mein is an explosion of flavors in your mouth. The savory beef, the crunchy vegetables, and the aromatic seasonings all come together to create a symphony of taste that is both comforting and exciting. 

The flavors are rich and complex, with a perfect balance of saltiness, sweetness, and umami. Each ingredient complements the others, creating a dish that is greater than the sum of its parts.

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Why This Recipe Works?

1. Versatility: One of the key reasons why La Choy Hamburger Chow Mein is so popular is its versatility. You can easily customize the dish to suit your preferences by adding or omitting vegetables, adjusting the seasonings, or even swapping out the protein.

2. Ease of Preparation: This recipe is incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table in no time.

3. Budget-Friendly: La Choy Hamburger Chow Mein is a cost-effective dish that makes the most of simple ingredients. You don’t need fancy gourmet items to create a flavorful meal – just some pantry staples and a bit of creativity.

4. Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. The familiar flavors and comforting textures make it a crowd-pleaser, perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in.

Ingredients For La Choy Hamburger Chow Mein:

Celery, Diced:

I include diced celery to impart a crisp and refreshing texture to the La Choy Hamburger Chow Mein. Its mild, earthy flavor adds depth to the overall dish, creating a delightful contrast.

Mushrooms (Optional):

Opting for mushrooms introduces an earthy richness to the chow mein. The mushrooms contribute a savory note, enhancing the overall flavor profile for those who appreciate this additional layer.

Water Chestnuts (Optional):

The inclusion of water chestnuts, if chosen, brings a delightful crunch to the dish. Their crisp texture adds a unique element, creating a satisfying contrast with the other ingredients.

Ground Beef:

Ground beef serves as the centerpiece, providing a hearty and flavorful base for the La Choy Hamburger Chow Mein. Its savory richness adds depth to the overall composition.

Pepper:

I use pepper to add a subtle kick of heat to the dish, enhancing its flavor profile. This spice contributes a pleasing warmth without overpowering the other ingredients.

Butter:

Butter is employed to sauté the ground beef and onions, infusing a rich and savory essence into the La Choy Hamburger Chow Mein. It adds a luxurious touch to the overall flavor profile.

Chopped Pimientos (Optional):

Brings a hint of sweetness and vibrant color to the composition, providing a visually appealing element to the dish.

Salt:

Essential for seasoning, it enhances the flavors of each ingredient, ensuring a well-balanced and savory outcome.

Onion:

Acts as a flavor conductor, infusing its aromatic essence into the dish, creating a savory base for the La Choy Hamburger Chow Mein.

Bean Sprouts:

Contributes a refreshing and crisp texture, adding a layer of freshness to the overall composition.

Water:

Serves as the fluid element to meld the flavors, ensuring the dish achieves the desired consistency and allowing the ingredients to harmonize.

Thickening :

Cold Water:

I incorporate 3 tablespoons of cold water into the thickening mixture to act as a neutral base, providing the necessary liquidity for the cornstarch to dissolve and blend seamlessly with the other ingredients. This ensures a smooth and consistent texture in the La Choy Hamburger Chow Mein.

Soy Sauce:

Adding 1 1/2 tablespoons of soy sauce not only imparts a depth of umami flavor but also contributes to the dark, rich color of the thickened sauce. It’s a key element that elevates the overall taste profile, creating a savory foundation.

Cornstarch:

The unsung hero, 3 tablespoons of cornstarch, serves as the primary thickening agent. This versatile ingredient binds the liquids together, giving the sauce its desired thickness and coating each ingredient evenly. It ensures a luscious and velvety consistency in the La Choy Hamburger Chow Mein.

Beef Gravy or Molasses:

The addition of either 1 tablespoon of beef gravy or 1 tablespoon of molasses brings a layer of complexity to the thickening mixture. Beef gravy introduces savory notes, enhancing the overall richness, while molasses contributes a subtle sweetness, creating a well-balanced flavor profile.

Sugar:

A touch of sweetness is introduced with 1 1/2 teaspoons of sugar. This not only balances the savory and umami elements but also rounds out the flavors, ensuring a harmonious and delectable experience in every bite of the La Choy Hamburger Chow Mein.

Step by Step Instructions: 

Step 1: Begin the Culinary Symphony:

Heat up a large pan and let 1/4 cup of butter dance into a sizzle. Introduce 1 1/4 lb. of ground beef and finely diced onions to the pan, orchestrating a flavorful sauté until they reach a tantalizing, golden-brown crescendo.

Step 2: Infuse the Essence of Seasoning:

Sprinkle 1/4 tsp. of pepper and 2 1/2 tsp. of salt into the mix, creating a harmonious melody of flavors. Join the symphony with 2 cups of diced celery and 1 1⁄2 cups of water, letting the composition simmer for a soul-soothing 15 minutes.

Step 3: Elevate with an Array of Vegetables:

Introduce the finely chopped pimientos, optional sliced mushrooms, sliced water chestnuts, and drained bean sprouts to the composition. Let this culinary composition serenade your senses until the vegetables attain a tender perfection.

Step 4: Craft the Art of Thickening:

Compose a thickening masterpiece by blending 3 tbsp. of cold water, 1 1/2 tbsp. of soy sauce, 3 tbsp. of cornstarch, 1 tablespoon of beef gravy or molasses, and 1 1/2 tsp. of sugar. This artistic combination will be the key to a sumptuously textured dish.

Step 5: Weave the Thicken into the Melody:

With a gentle yet confident hand, introduce the thickening concoction into the simmering symphony. Stir diligently, allowing the melody to thicken to a crescendo of perfection, ensuring every element harmonizes seamlessly.

Step 6: Presentation and Gratification:

Spoon the La Choy Hamburger Chow Mein onto a canvas of hot cooked rice, chow mein noodles, or nestled within the warm embrace of hamburger rolls. The vibrant presentation and multifaceted flavors will be a masterpiece that delights both the eyes and the palate.

Step 7: Preservation and Future Feasts:

Whether preparing in advance or utilizing a crock pot for convenience, the remnants of this culinary composition can be frozen. This ensures future feasts that effortlessly recapture the magic and flavors of this unique La Choy Hamburger Chow Mein.

Notes:

– Tip 1: For a spicier version, add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes.

– Tip 2: Feel free to swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

– Tip 3: To add an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle some sesame seeds or chopped scallions on top before serving.

– Tip 4: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

– Tip 5: To revive leftovers, gently reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth.

Nutrition Information:

– Serving Size: 4

– Calories: 318.6

– Total Fat: 13.5 g

– Saturated Fat: 5.1 g

– Cholesterol: 76.2 mg

– Sodium: 1565.2 mg

– Total Carbohydrates: 21.2 g

– Dietary Fiber: 4.9 g

– Sugars: 11.4 g

– Protein: 30.7 g

How To Store The Leftovers?

Leftover La Choy Hamburger Chow Mein can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the leftovers in a skillet with a splash of water or broth and gently heat until warmed through.

Sides For La Choy Hamburger Chow Mein:

– Steamed broccoli: The crisp-tender broccoli complements the savory flavors of the dish.

– Fried rice: A classic side dish that pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the chow mein.

– Egg rolls: Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside – a delightful addition to your meal.

– Asian slaw: A refreshing and crunchy side that adds a pop of color to your plate.

What are some alternative choices to the ingredients in case they are not in your pantry?

1. Vegetables: Feel free to use any combination of vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers, snow peas, or carrots.

2. Protein: Instead of ground beef, you can use ground chicken, pork, or tofu for a vegetarian option.

3. Sauces: If you don’t have soy sauce on hand, you can substitute with tamari or coconut aminos.

4. Thickening agent: Cornstarch can be replaced with arrowroot powder or potato starch for similar thickening properties.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I make La Choy Hamburger Chow Mein ahead of time? 

Yes, you can prepare the dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Simply reheat before serving.

2. Is La Choy Hamburger Chow Mein gluten-free? 

While the main ingredients are gluten-free, be sure to check the labels of soy sauce and other seasonings for any hidden gluten.

3. Can I freeze La Choy Hamburger Chow Mein? 

It is not recommended to freeze this dish as the texture of the vegetables may become mushy upon thawing.

4. How can I make La Choy Hamburger Chow Mein spicier? 

To add a kick of heat to the dish, you can include diced jalapeños or a drizzle of chili oil during cooking.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, La Choy Hamburger Chow Mein is a delightful dish that brings together the comforting flavors of home-cooked meals with the exotic allure of Asian cuisine. 

With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and versatile nature, this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to expand their culinary horizons. 

So, gather your ingredients, don your apron, and embark on a flavorful adventure with La Choy Hamburger Chow Mein – a dish that is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.

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