Keto Noodles Recipe (Keto Lo Mein) | Keto In Pearls | Sides | Asian (2024)

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If you miss ordering Chinese takeout, this low carb and keto lo mein is going to be your new favorite recipe. With a few common ingredients, zero carb konjac noodles, and a scorching hot pan, you can make this copycat keto lo mein recipe!

Keto Noodles Recipe (Keto Lo Mein) | Keto In Pearls | Sides | Asian (1)

This recipe originally appeared on January 7, 2019. Updated photos and video on July 7, 2020.

Surprise! Another Asian-inspired recipe! This post is all about marinated konjac (shirataki) noodles.If you were a habitual orderer of lo mein on Chinese take-out nights, then you’re in for a treat with these keto lo mein noodles.

As I have said in other posts, pasta can be a hard replacement on a low carb diet.

We have spaghetti squash, zucchini noodles, homemade egg noodles, but that’s really it in the way of “pasta”.

This easy keto lo mein recipe mimics the take-out variety really well!They’re a great accompaniment to my Beef and Broccoli, Pork Fried Rice, orSugar Free Yum Yum Sauce.

The konjac noodles have a nice bite to them which is reminiscent of rice noodles. Since konjac (shirataki) noodles are an Asian product/plant, they are theperfect substitute in this dish.

Don’t be afraid to try a new ingredient to make this low carb lo mein. I will walk you through how to avoid any funky smells, tastes, and textures. Readers have really enjoyed this keto lo mein since I originally posted it and I know you will too!

Keto Noodles Recipe (Keto Lo Mein) | Keto In Pearls | Sides | Asian (2)

You Are Going To Love This Keto Lo Mein

And here’s why:

  • Easy to prepare
  • Budget friendly
  • Dairy free & Paleo
  • Only 3 net carbs per serving
  • Common ingredients (yes, even the noodles)
  • Tastes JUST like your local takeout restaurant
  • Add a protein (chicken, shrimp, beef, egg) for a full meal
  • Kid friendly
  • Freakin’ delicious
Keto Noodles Recipe (Keto Lo Mein) | Keto In Pearls | Sides | Asian (3)

What You Need To Know About Konjac (Shirataki) Noodles Before Making Keto Lo Mein

What are konjac, or shirataki noodles? They are a Japanese noodle made from the konjac plant.

Are konjac noodles keto? When cooked properly, konjac noodles are a fantastic substitute because they’re zero carb, low calorie, and gluten free. They are a fantastic substitute for traditional noodles for a low carb / keto diet.

Are konjac noodles good for you? They can contribute to weight loss as they are very low calories but make you feel full. They may help to lower cholesterol and also may relieve constipation.

There are many different brands you can buy. Some are infinitely better than others.In fact, until I first made this recipe, I struggled to find one I cared for.

I have used both NuPasta and Healthy Noodle in this recipe with great success. I have them both linked down in the recipe card for you.

Keto Noodles Recipe (Keto Lo Mein) | Keto In Pearls | Sides | Asian (4)

What You Need to Know About This Recipe

I feel like this recipe should come with a few warnings, if you will, about working with konjac noodles for the first time:

  1. Some brands smell to the high heavens. I’m not kidding when I say hold your breath when you open the package. I’m not surewhy they have a bad odor, but they do, and it reeks!
  2. How to get the smell out of konjac (shirataki) noodles? Rinse, rinse, rinse. You have to rinse the heck out of the noodles prior to marinating and cooking to eliminate that fishy (or sometimes waxy) smell. One of my friendly readers suggested to rinse with a solution water and white vinegar solution then rinse again with water. I haven’t tried but apparently it does the trick!
  3. Do not boil them! Konjac noodles are different than flour based noodles and do not require a boil. 99.9% of packages will tell you (as will I in the recipe) to pan fry them.

Okay, you’ve been warned. Moving on…

Keto Noodles Recipe (Keto Lo Mein) | Keto In Pearls | Sides | Asian (5)

Making Your Keto Lo Mein At Home

I got the idea to marinate the noodles from my bestie Lisa (@queencitylisa on Instagram).

She shared that she did that one night for supper and the lightbulb immediately went off in my head. Genius idea, my sweet friend.

Watch the video in this post to see just how easy it is to prepare your own keto lo mein!

First, remember to rinse, rinse, rinse your noodles. Then, pour your simple marinade over them (in a bowl, of course) and let them soak in the refrigerator for as long as possible.

When you’re ready to cook, get a nonstick skillet screaming hot, add some sesame oil, and pan fry the noodles. They will pop, crack, and sizzle just like rice crispies!

If you want saucey low carb lo mein, (who doesn’t, right?), then strain your marinade and thicken it up in the pan with some xanthan gum. Remember, xanthan gum is a gluten free way to thicken things up.

If you’re extra like me, order these chinese take-out boxes and serve your low carb lo mein in them with some chopsticks. Your people will think you called the local takeout restaurant!

Keto Noodles Recipe (Keto Lo Mein) | Keto In Pearls | Sides | Asian (6)

Keto Noodles Recipe (Keto Lo Mein) | Keto In Pearls | Sides | Asian (7)

Keto Lo Mein

Anna Hunley | Keto In Pearls

Marinated konjac noodles make the perfect Keto Lo Mein. An easy recipe for all of your keto Chinese cravings. Only 3 net carbs per serving.

4 from 1 vote

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 5 minutes mins

Chill Time 3 hours hrs

Total Time 3 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Course Sides

Cuisine Asian

Servings 6 servings

Calories 50 kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 pound konjac noodles
  • 1/3 cup coconut aminos or soy sauce
  • 2 green onions thinly sliced (reserve 1 tablespoon for garnish)
  • 3 teaspoons rice vinegar unseasoned
  • 1/4 teaspoon lime juice
  • 1/3 cup water
  • 2 teaspoons brown sugar substitute
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum

Instructions

  • Place the noodles in a colander and run under cold water per package directions.

  • While the noodles are rinsing, make the marinade by whisking the coconut aminos, onions, vinegar, lime juice, water and brown sugar substitute in a large bowl.

  • Drain the noodles and transfer to the bowl. Toss the noodles so that all are covered in the marinade. Cover with plastic wrap and place in the fridge for at least 3 hours to marinate, up to 24 hours.

  • Remove the noodles from the fridge. Strain the noodles through a fine sieve and reserve the marinade.

  • In a skillet over MED HIGH heat, add the sesame oil. Add the noodles to the hot pan. Use tongs to toss them in the oil. They will bubble, sizzle, and pop. Cook the noodles for 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer to a serving bowl.

  • Reduce the heat to MED and add the reserved marinade. When it begins to slightly bubble, add the xanthan gum and whisk continuously until thickened, about 1 minute. Pour the sauce over the noodles.

  • Garnish with reserved green onion before serving.

Video

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 50kcalCarbohydrates: 6.7gProtein: 2.8gFat: 2.8gFiber: 3.7g

Keyword fast keto recipes, keto, keto asian, keto Chinese, keto food, keto lo mein, keto recipes, keto sides

Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Keto Noodles Recipe (Keto Lo Mein) | Keto In Pearls | Sides | Asian (8)
Keto Noodles Recipe (Keto Lo Mein) | Keto In Pearls | Sides | Asian (2024)

FAQs

Which Asian noodles are lowest in carbs? ›

Shirataki noodles (konjac noodles) and tofu shirataki noodles. If you're counting carbs and craving pasta, these are your best bet.

Which Chinese dishes are lowest in carbs? ›

15 Keto-Friendly Chinese Foods
  • Sautéed green beans. ...
  • Chicken and broccoli. ...
  • Steamed vegetables. ...
  • Hot and sour soup. ...
  • Kung pao shrimp. ...
  • Chop suey. ...
  • Baked fish. Share on Pinterest Anna Shepulova/Getty Images. ...
  • Stir-fries. The easiest way to cook keto-friendly Chinese food at home is to simply stir-fry meats and low carb veggies in oil.
Apr 14, 2021

Which noodles are best for keto? ›

Keto, low-carb pasta can be made from a variety of vegetables including zucchini, spaghetti squash, and kelp. Or, look to alternatives like shirataki noodles and low-carb flours.

What is lo mein sauce made of? ›

Most commonly, lo mein involves chicken, beef, pork, turkey, shrimp or tofu. Sauce components: Lo mein sauce is mainly composed of sesame oil, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, garlic, ginger, oyster sauce and a dash of sugar. If you like your noodles to have a little heat, you can sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.

What is a good substitute for lo mein noodles? ›

Lo Mein Noodle Alternatives

However, you could also use zoodles (zucchini noodles), coodles (carrot noodles), or even heart of palm instead! Full disclosure, if you're following a Whole30, Paleo, or another specific diet protocol, swapping out the noodles may alter this recipe's compliance with your needs.

Is it safe to eat shirataki noodles every day? ›

For some, the glucomannan in shirataki noodles may cause mild digestive issues, such as loose stools, bloating, and flatulence ( 28 ). More serious side effects have also been reported, especially when shirataki noodles are consumed in large amounts.

What can I order from Chinese on keto? ›

You can ask for steamed versions of some dishes and then add soy sauce, which fits within the guidelines of a well-formulated ketogenic diet. Particularly the steamed Asian broccoli or mustard are good choices. For protein, the roast pork, roast duck, and crispy-skin pork belly are good choices.

Is Chinese lo mein high in carbs? ›

Lo Mein (1 cup) contains 35g total carbs, 32g net carbs, 12.1g fat, 14.7g protein, and 310 calories.

What is the healthiest Chinese meal to order? ›

We asked nutrition experts for some of their healthiest Chinese food dishes, plus their best menu hacks for sneaking in even more nutrients.
  • Moo Goo Gai Pan. ...
  • Szechuan Tofu. ...
  • Shrimp with Broccoli in Garlic Sauce. ...
  • Beef and Broccoli. ...
  • Spring Rolls. ...
  • Cucumber Salad. ...
  • Lo Mein of Chow Fun with Veggies or Protein. ...
  • White or Brown Rice.

What noodles have no carbs? ›

"Vegetable-based pastas, such as zucchini noodles or hearts of palm noodles, tend to be lowest in carbs and calories," says Sassos. "They are also packed with nutrient-dense vitamins and minerals and are naturally gluten-free. Shirataki noodles and kelp noodles are also quite low in carbs and calories."

What are the no carb noodles called? ›

Shirataki noodles are very low in calories and carbohydrates and have become popular as a low-carb and gluten-free alternative to traditional pasta. Shirataki noodles have a mild flavor and can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stir-fries to salads and pasta dishes.

What makes lo mein taste so good? ›

The sauce is what makes this dish so addictive. It's a simple umami filled mix of light and dark soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, sugar, and a hint of ginger. It's super easy to make a batch of lo mein sauce and keep it in the fridge so you can easily make lo mein whenever the craving hits.

What is better, chow mein or lo mein? ›

Largely this is a matter of personal taste since both dishes can be made to your preference. If you prefer lightly sauced noodles with some crunch and vegetables with some snap, chow mein might be the way to go. If you like a more comforting noodle with richly flavored sauce, lo mein may be the better option.

What is the brown sauce in Chinese food called? ›

Oyster sauce is commonly used in Chinese food and adds a savory, salty, umami flavor. Both can be found in most grocery stores. If you like, you can add grated or minced ginger or garlic. Serve your homemade brown sauce with a beef, chicken, or pork stir-fry or chow mein dish.

What noodles have the fewest carbs? ›

THE BREAKDOWN: BEST LOW-CARB PASTA BRANDS RANKED
  • IT'S SKINNY PASTA & RICE. ...
  • PALMINI LOW-CARB PASTA. ...
  • GREEN GIANT BUTTERNUT SQUASH VEGGIE SPIRALS. ...
  • BANZA CHICKPEA PASTA. ...
  • SOLELY ORGANIC DRIED SPAGHETTI SQUASH. ...
  • EXPLORE EDAMAME SPAGHETTI. ...
  • MIRACLE NOODLE PASTA. ...
  • THINSLIM FOODS IMPASTABLE LOW-CARB PASTA.
Mar 25, 2024

What type of noodles have the least carbs? ›

"Vegetable-based pastas, such as zucchini noodles or hearts of palm noodles, tend to be lowest in carbs and calories," says Sassos. "They are also packed with nutrient-dense vitamins and minerals and are naturally gluten-free. Shirataki noodles and kelp noodles are also quite low in carbs and calories."

What Japanese noodles have no carbs? ›

Shirataki Noodles are also known as miracle noodles or zero calorie noodles. They're originally from Japan and made from glucomannan, a type of fiber from the root of the konjac plant. They're very filling, yet contain no digestible carbs and are low in calories, making them perfect for those on the keto diet.

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