Chow Mein
Chow Mein at Panda Express is a popular menu item that features stir-fried noodles with a savory, slightly sweet sauce and a medley of vegetables. It’s one of the classic side dishes offered at Panda Express and pairs well with a variety of entrees. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the Chow Mein in terms of calories, ingredients, nutritional information, allergens, and recommendations.
Calories
A typical serving of Chow Mein (about 5.6 oz or 159 grams) contains around 510 calories. It is a higher-calorie option compared to lighter sides like Super Greens or steamed rice, largely due to the presence of noodles and oil used in stir-frying.
Ingredients
Chow Mein at Panda Express is made with a combination of wheat noodles, vegetables, and a savory sauce. Here are the main ingredients:
- Chow Mein Noodles (wheat-based noodles, stir-fried for a slightly crispy texture)
- Cabbage (shredded, adds crunch and fiber)
- Carrots (sliced thin for sweetness and color)
- Onions (adds savory flavor)
- Soy Sauce (used in the stir-fry sauce, contributing to the dish’s savory flavor)
- Canola Oil (used for stir-frying the noodles and vegetables)
- Ginger and Garlic (for flavor)
- Sugar** (adds a subtle sweetness to balance the soy sauce)
The noodles are stir-fried with a light sauce, which helps impart a savory, slightly tangy flavor.
Estimated Nutritional Information (per serving)
Here’s an estimated breakdown of the Chow Mein at Panda Express based on a typical serving size (about 5.6 oz or 159g):
- Calories: 510
- Protein: 12g
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 71g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 5g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Vitamin A: 25% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 10% of the DV
- Calcium: 6% of the DV
- Iron: 10% of the DV
The dish is relatively high in carbohydrates and sodium, which is typical for stir-fried noodle dishes. The sodium content can be high, especially for those on a low-sodium diet, so be mindful if you’re concerned about sodium intake.
Allergens
The Chow Mein dish contains several common allergens. These are:
- Wheat (from the noodles)
- Soy (from the soy sauce and possibly other ingredients in the sauce)
- Gluten (since it’s made with wheat-based noodles)
- Sesame (may be present in trace amounts, especially in the oil or seasonings used)
If you have specific allergies to any of these ingredients, be sure to inform the staff, as cross-contamination can occur in shared kitchen spaces.
Recommendation
For a Hearty, Flavorful Side: Chow Mein is a great choice if you’re looking for something filling and flavorful to accompany your meal. It’s a more substantial option compared to lighter sides like rice or vegetables.
If You’re Watching Calories or Carbs: If you’re following a calorie-conscious or low-carb diet, Super Greens or Steamed Rice might be better options. Chow Mein can be high in calories and carbs, so it may not be ideal for those limiting their intake of these nutrients.
For a Balanced Meal: Pairing Chow Mein with a lean protein option like Grilled Chicken, Kung Pao Chicken, or Black Pepper Angus Steak can provide a satisfying and balanced meal with carbs, protein, and some veggies. The Chow Mein already has vegetables, but adding a protein source will make it a fuller meal.
Vegetarian Option: The Chow Mein is vegetarian as long as you avoid animal-based sauces (such as oyster sauce), but Panda Express uses a soy-based sauce for this dish, so it’s generally vegan-friendly unless you’re concerned about cross-contact.
Watch the Sodium: The dish contains a fair amount of sodium, so if you’re watching your salt intake, consider opting for a lighter, less-salty side, such as Super Greens or Steamed Rice.
Please Note: Prices may vary by location, size, and local pricing policies. Generally, you can expect it for a standard size. For the most accurate pricing, it’s best to check the Panda Express Mobile App or visit a local store.
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