Get ready to spice up your life with these 18 mouth-watering Yaka Mein recipes that will transport you straight to the heart of New Orleans! This classic comfort food dish has been a staple in the Big Easy for generations, and its rich flavor profile is perfect for warming up on a chilly evening. What makes Yaka Mein so special? The combination of spicy andouille sausage, savory beef broth, and tender noodles that just can’t be beat.
Whether you’re a spice lover or looking to mix things up with some unique twists, we’ve got you covered with our collection of Yaka Mein recipes that range from classic to adventurous. From hearty soups to noodle dishes, and even fusion flavors like kimchi and miso, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Classic New Orleans Yaka Mein
A traditional Louisiana dish that’s a staple of New Orleans cuisine, this hearty Yaka Mein (also known as Ya Ka Mein) is a flavorful and filling one-pot meal. This recipe yields a rich and comforting bowl of goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup long-grain rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef, cooking until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
4. Stir in the garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the rice, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Beef Yaka Mein Soup
This hearty and flavorful soup is a twist on traditional Chinese beef noodle soup, with the added kick of spicy Szechuan peppercorns. Perfect for a cold winter’s day or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket or shank, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup water
– 8 ounces Yaka Mein noodles (or substitute with thin egg noodles)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, and Szechuan peppercorns; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add soy sauce, broth, and water; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until beef is tender.
6. Cook Yaka Mein noodles according to package instructions.
7. Add cooked noodles to the pot and season with salt and pepper.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Yaka Mein with Soft-Boiled Eggs
A flavorful and comforting Chinese-inspired dish that combines tender chicken, soft-boiled eggs, and savory noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked mein noodles (or any Asian-style noodle)
– 4 soft-boiled eggs, peeled
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from wok and set aside.
3. In the same wok, add remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Stir-fry onion and garlic until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add cooked chicken back into the wok, along with soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Stir to combine.
5. To assemble, place noodles in a bowl, top with chicken mixture, and gently place soft-boiled eggs on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetarian Yaka Mein with Mushrooms
A Chinese-inspired stir-fry that combines the flavors of noodles, mushrooms, and vegetables, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. This vegetarian version is just as flavorful and filling!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup yaka mein noodles (or substitute with rice noodles)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup bean sprouts
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add mushrooms, onion, and garlic. Stir-fry until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add bean sprouts, scallions, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for another minute.
5. Combine cooked noodles with the vegetable mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Seafood Yaka Mein with Shrimp and Crab
This classic Cantonese dish combines succulent shrimp and crab with a savory sauce, served over a bed of noodles. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz yaka mein noodles
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook yaka mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a wok or large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from wok and set aside.
4. In the same wok, add remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
5. Add crab meat, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until crab is lightly cooked.
6. Add cooked shrimp back into the wok and stir-fry for an additional minute to combine.
7. Serve seafood mixture over cooked noodles. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow-Cooked Pork Yaka Mein
This hearty and flavorful recipe is a twist on the classic Chinese dish, with tender pork and noodles cooked to perfection in a rich and savory broth. Perfect for a comforting meal or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder
– 2 cups Yaka mein noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a slow cooker. Add sliced onion and cook until softened.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Place pork shoulder on top of the onion mixture.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken broth, water, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Pour over the pork.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. About 30 minutes before serving, cook Yaka mein noodles according to package instructions.
7. Slice cooked pork against the grain. Serve with noodles and garnish with chopped scallions (if desired).
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours on low or 4-6 hours on high.
Spicy Kimchi Yaka Mein Fusion
Experience the bold flavors of Korea and China in this mouth-numbing, tongue-tingling noodle dish. Spicy kimchi yaka mein fusion combines the spicy kick of Korean kimchi with the savory goodness of Chinese beef noodles.
Ingredients:
– 200g beef noodles
– 2 cups kimchi (spicy fermented Korean cabbage)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the beef noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the kimchi and stir-fry until it starts to caramelize, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Pour in the beef broth, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Bring to a simmer.
6. Add the cooked noodles to the wok or skillet and toss everything together until well coated.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired).
9. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun-Style Yaka Mein with Andouille Sausage
This hearty one-pot dish is a twist on traditional Chinese lo mein, infused with the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine and the smoky goodness of Andouille sausage.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 cups Yaka Mein noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook Yaka Mein noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add bell peppers and cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
6. Add cooked sausage back into the skillet and stir to combine.
7. Combine cooked noodles with the sausage mixture; toss to coat.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Yaka Mein Noodles
This recipe combines the comfort of yaka mein noodles with the richness of garlic butter, creating a dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 package yaka mein noodles
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook yaka mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Pour in chicken broth and soy sauce. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly reduced.
4. Add cooked noodles to the skillet and toss to combine with garlic butter mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemongrass-infused Yaka Mein
A fragrant twist on traditional Yaka Mein, this recipe infuses the rich flavors of beef and vegetables with the brightness of lemongrass.
Ingredients:
– 500g beef strips (yaka mein)
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, sliced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the lemongrass, garlic, and onion to the pan. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked beef back into the pan. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Season with soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoky Bacon Yaka Mein
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional yaka mein with the addition of smoky bacon and savory spices. This hearty dish is perfect for a comforting meal or satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound yaka mein noodles
– 6 slices of smoky bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook yaka mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add vegetable oil, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add ground ginger and soy sauce to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Add cooked noodles and crispy bacon to the skillet. Toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Miso Yaka Mein
Spicy Miso Yaka Mein: A Savory and Spicy Noodle Dish from Japan and China
This recipe combines the rich flavors of miso paste with the spicy kick of gochujang, creating a bold and savory noodle dish that is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 200g yaka mein noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (shiitake, cremini), sliced
– 2 tablespoons gochujang
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic, mushrooms, gochujang, miso paste, soy sauce, and ginger. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until the mixture is well combined.
4. Add cooked noodles to the wok or skillet. Toss everything together, ensuring the noodles are well coated with the spicy miso mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Yaka Mein with Pickled Mustard Greens
This classic Szechuan dish combines the bold flavors of yaka mein noodles, savory ground pork, and tangy pickled mustard greens. A perfect blend of textures and tastes to spice up your meal!
Ingredients:
– 1 package yaka mein noodles
– 1 lb ground pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup pickled mustard greens (see note)
Instructions:
1. Cook yaka mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a wok or large skillet, cook ground pork over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add garlic, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and sesame oil. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Combine cooked noodles and ground pork mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with pickled mustard greens.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Note: To make pickled mustard greens, soak 1/4 cup of mustard greens in 1/2 cup of vinegar (such as apple cider or white wine) for at least 30 minutes. Drain and rinse before using.
Five-Spice Yaka Mein with Braised Beef
A hearty and aromatic Chinese-inspired noodle dish featuring tender braised beef and a savory five-spice sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef brisket or chuck, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 cup Five-Spice Powder (or store-bought)
– 1 cup braising liquid (beef broth or red wine)
– 8 oz Yaka Mein noodles
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high. Add beef; cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in Five-Spice Powder and braising liquid. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return beef to pot; cover and transfer to oven. Braise for 2 hours, or until tender.
6. Cook Yaka Mein noodles according to package instructions.
7. Serve braised beef over noodles, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (braising) + 10-12 minutes (cooking noodles)
Yaka Mein Ramen Hybrid Bowl
Experience the perfect fusion of Japanese ramen noodles and Indian spices with this unique hybrid bowl recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of ramen noodles
– 2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon of ghee or vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon of curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat the ghee or oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Add the broth, cumin, curry powder, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
5. Combine the cooked noodles with the curry broth mixture. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hot and Sour Yaka Mein Soup
Warm up with a savory and tangy bowl of Hot and Sour Yaka Mein Soup, inspired by Chinese cuisine. This comforting soup is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 package Yaka Mein noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook Yaka Mein noodles according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in broth and water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Stir in soy sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch mixture (whisked with a little water). Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until soup thickens slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Yaka Mein with Crispy Fried Shallots
This classic Cantonese stir-fry dish gets a crunch and flavor boost from crispy fried shallots, elevating the traditional yaka mein recipe to new heights.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb thin noodles (egg or rice-based)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., bean sprouts, cabbage, carrots)
– 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crispy fried shallots (see below for recipe)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic, ginger, and mixed vegetables; stir-fry until tender.
3. Add cooked chicken and stir-fry until combined with vegetables.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Pour sauce into the wok and stir-fry until noodles are well coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with crispy fried shallots.
Crispy Fried Shallots:
1. Thinly slice 1/2 cup of shallots.
2. Separate into individual rings.
3. Dredge in cornstarch, shaking off excess.
4. Fry in hot oil (about 350°F) until golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Curry Coconut Yaka Mein with Tofu
A flavorful and aromatic Asian-inspired noodle dish that combines the warmth of curry powder with the creaminess of coconut milk, all wrapped up in a deliciously savory broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Yaka mein noodles
– 1 block firm tofu, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 cups water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook Yaka mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add tofu and cook until golden, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pan and cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Stir in curry powder and cook for an additional minute.
5. Pour in coconut milk and water, and bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Add cooked tofu back into the pan and stir to combine with the curry sauce.
7. Combine cooked noodles with the curry sauce and tofu. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped cilantro or scallions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with these 18 mouth-watering Yaka Mein recipes! This classic New Orleans dish has been elevated to new heights with creative twists and flavors. From spicy beef and chicken soups to seafood and vegetarian options, there’s something for everyone. Slow-cooked pork, smoky bacon, and curry coconut variations add depth and richness, while kimchi fusion and Cajun-style sausage give it a bold kick. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or an international flair, these Yaka Mein recipes will satisfy your soul.
