It’s always so nice to whip up a family favourite. It’s one of those dishes that’s easy to make, super tasty, and loved by everyone—especially the kids. Perfect for those crazy busy days when you want something quick that still totally hits the spot.

I think every cook has that one recipe they can always rely on, and this one is definitely mine. I grew up eating Shanghai noodles, and they’ve always had a special place in my heart. My mom made them all the time, and I could never resist going back for seconds (okay, sometimes even thirds!). The noodles are perfectly bouncy, and that savoury sauce? Absolute delicious!

The best part? This recipe is ridiculously simple. With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up your own batch of Shanghai noodles at home. No fuss, just pure comfort.

History of Shanghai Noodles

Shanghai noodles are a popular dish from China that’s been loved for generations. They’ve got a unique mix of flavours and textures that set them apart from other noodles. Whether in family kitchens, street food stalls, or busy markets, these noodles have been a staple for locals, always bringing back great memories.

When it comes to Shanghai noodles, it’s not a one-size-fits-all situation. There are more variations than you can shake a chopstick at. Some might be thicker, others thinner and while the traditional Shanghai Noodles recipe uses pork, you can substitute chicken, beef or shrimp.  Each variation tells its own story, reflecting regional preferences and the creativity of the cooks who bring them to life. Back then, many households took pride in making their own noodles at home, kneading the dough, feeling its transformation, and then coaxing it into those perfect strands. Shanghai noodles are like a taste of history right there on your plate, a reminder that the simplest dishes often carry the richest stories.

As a parent, it’s been such a joy watching my kids get excited about twirling those noodles on their plates. And the slurping? It’s a whole vibe and always brings out the laughs and giggles. I grew up loving this dish, and now I get to share it with my kids. Seeing them enjoy it as much as I did growing up just fills me with so much warmth. Every slurp feels like a little piece of tradition—comforting and familiar, just like it’s always been.

Gathering Ingredients

Alright, let’s talk about the must-haves for creating these delicious Shanghai noodles.

1. Noodle Basics:
   • All-purpose flour and water to make the noodles but I usually just buy them pre-packaged in stores.
2. Savoury Sauce:
   • Soy sauce: Adds that umami punch.
   • Sesame oil: Adds depth and aroma.
   • Oyster sauce: Adds a sweet and savoury kick.
   • Mirin: A hint of sweetness to round out the savoury notes.
   • Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce and contributes to a velvety texture on the surface of the meat. It forms a thin layer that helps retain moisture during cooking, resulting in a more tender and succulent final dish.
3. Fresh Veggies:
   • Bok choy: Brings freshness and crunch.
   • Scallions: Adds a pop of colour and flavour.
   • Carrots: Gives a sweet and vibrant contrast.
   • Nappa cabbage: Gives a mild, crisp texture and subtle sweetness.
4. Proteins:
   • Choose your preference: shrimp, chicken, beef, pork or tofu.

Where to Find Authentic Ingredients

1. Local Asian Markets:
   • These are the treasure troves for authentic ingredients. Look for a nearby Asian market; you’ll find everything from specialty sauces to fresh produce.
2. Farmers’ Markets:
   • Believe it or not, local farmers’ markets can surprise you with fresh and seasonal Asian veggies.

Possible Substitutions for Hard-to-Find Items

1. Soy Sauce Alternatives:
   • Tamari or coconut aminos can step in for soy sauce. They bring a similar salty kick with their unique twist.
2. Sesame Oil Swaps:
   • Vegetable oil can replace sesame oil.
3. Oyster Sauce Stand-Ins:
   • Hoisin sauce mixed with a bit of soy sauce can mimic the sweet umami of oyster sauce.
4. Protein Flexibility:
   • Embrace the flexibility—swap shrimp for chicken, or go all-in with a veggie medley.

Sauce and Topping Variations

Okay, let’s get into the saucy side of things. The sauce is the game-changer in this dish, and I get it—everyone’s got their own twists or wants to experiment with new flavours. So, I’ve got the classic sauce and a few adventurous variations for you to explore.

Classic Shanghai Soy Sauce Mix:

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce (for colour)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1.5 tablespoons mirin
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Garlic Sesame :

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated

Spicy Hoisin:

• 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Spicy Gochujang:

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean hot paste)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger

Some classic and delicious toppings that go well with Shanghai noodles:

1. Sesame Seeds: Toasted sesame seeds add a nutty flavour and a delightful crunch.
2. Chopped Green Onions: Fresh green onions provide a mild onion flavour and a pop of colour.
3. Cilantro: Fresh cilantro leaves contribute a citrusy and herbal note.
4. Bean Sprouts: These add a crisp and refreshing texture to the noodles.
5. Julienne Carrots: Thin strips of carrots not only add colour but also a sweet and crunchy element.
6. Baby Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed or steamed bok choy can add a touch of freshness.
7. Shiitake Mushrooms: Sliced and cooked shiitake mushrooms bring an earthy flavour.
8. Toasted Peanuts or Cashews: Crushed nuts provide a rich, nutty crunch.
9. Fried Shallots or Garlic: Crispy fried shallots or garlic bits add a savoury, aromatic kick.
10. Sliced Red Chili: For those who love heat, add some thinly sliced red chili.