Kelp Noodle Chow Mein - Erewhon Inspired

Help the Kelp!

Kelp Noodle Chow Mein

We are back with another Erewhon-inspired recipe! This kelp noodle chow mein is so easy and quick to prepare - ready in just 20 minutes. I paired it with an Erewhon-inspired Korean short rib burrito(find the recipe here), and it makes for a balanced and satisfying meal. These marinated kelp noodles combine green cabbage, carrots, celery, green onion, sesame oil, soy sauce, and sesame seeds, offering a delicious, gluten-free option. It’s like transforming a Japanese seaweed salad into a savory chow mein!  

Notes: 

Storage: These noodles store well in the fridge and can be kept in the fridge for about 3-4 days in an air tight container. Reheat in a microwave and add a little extra sesame oil or water to refresh the noodles 

Soften Kelp noodles properly: Kelp noodles can be a bit firm out of the package. Letting them sit in lemon juice and baking soda helps soften them, making them more noodle-like in texture. 

Soy sauce alternatives: For a gluten-free version, use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. 

Recipe:

Servings: 4

Kelp Noodle Preparation:

• 12 oz kelp noodles

• 1 Tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tsp baking soda

Stir Fry Ingredients:

• 4 cups green cabbage, shredded

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 Tbsp sesame oil

• 1 carrot, julienned

• 2 celery stalks, thinly sliced

• 3 green onions, chopped

• 2 Tbsp sesame seeds

Sauce :

• 2 Tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

• 1 Tbsp rice vinegar

• 1 tsp honey or agave syrup (for a hint of sweetness)

• 1 tsp chili oil (optional for spice)

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Instructions:

1. Preparing the Kelp Noodles:

   • Use a strainer to rinse the kelp noodles thoroughly, then break them apart.

   • In a large bowl, add the noodles, warm water, lemon juice, and baking soda. Let the noodles sit for 15 minutes until softened.

   • Rinse and strain the noodles.

2. Cooking the Chow Mein:

   • Heat sesame oil in a large pan over high heat.

   • Add minced garlic and stir for about 20 seconds until fragrant.

   • Toss in the cabbage, carrot, and celery, and stir-fry for about 90 seconds until the cabbage softens and wilts.

   • Add the kelp noodles and optional sauce, tossing to coat for about 1 minute.

   • Stir in green onions and sesame seeds, cooking for another 30 seconds before removing from heat.

3. Meal Prep Tips:

   • Divide the chow mein into four meal prep containers.

   • If pairing with the Korean short rib burrito, you can assemble both meals for a complete lunch or dinner.

   • For extra protein, consider adding tofu, shrimp, or chicken to the chow mein when stir-frying.

Let me know if you try it!