Shanghai Cashew Noodles from Wok Box feature tender noodles stir-fried with crunchy cashews, fresh vegetables, and a savory garlic soy sauce, delivering a flavorful and satisfying blend of textures and tastes.
Equipments
- Wok
- Spatula or wok turner
- Large pot (for boiling noodles)
- Colander or strainer
- Mixing bowls
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) wheat noodles
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, minced
- 1/2 cup raw cashews
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup snap peas, sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded napa cabbage
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (or vegetarian alternative)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- Sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
For the best texture, use fresh wheat noodles when preparing Shanghai Cashew Noodles to ensure they remain tender yet firm after stir-frying. Raw cashews provide a satisfying crunch, so opt for unsalted versions to balance the dish's savory soy and garlic flavors. Fresh vegetables like julienned carrots, thinly sliced red bell peppers, and snap peas contribute to both color and crispness, enhancing the overall eating experience. Accurate measuring of sauces such as soy, hoisin, and oyster ensures the perfect blend of savory and slightly sweet notes in your dish. Your homemade Shanghai Cashew Noodles from Wok Box copycat menu will capture the authentic taste you crave, combining the perfect harmony of textures and flavors.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Boil water in a large pot and cook wheat noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Prep all vegetables: julienne carrot, slice bell pepper and snap peas, shred napa cabbage, and slice green onions.
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar, ground white pepper, and rice vinegar to make the stir-fry sauce.
- Heat wok over medium-high heat; add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil.
- Add cashews and stir-fry until lightly toasted. Remove and set aside.
- Add remaining oil to the wok.
- Add minced garlic and ginger; stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add carrot, bell pepper, snap peas, and cabbage. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender.
- Add cooked noodles to the wok.
- Pour in prepared stir-fry sauce and toss to combine thoroughly.
- Return toasted cashews to the wok and add green onions; stir-fry for another minute.
- Remove from heat. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.
Substitution
Shanghai Cashew Noodles from Wok Box copycat menu capture the authentic taste of tender wheat noodles stir-fried with crunchy cashews and fresh vegetables in a savory garlic soy sauce. If you cannot find Napa cabbage, substitute with regular green cabbage or bok choy for a similar texture and flavor. Oyster sauce can be replaced with a vegetarian mushroom sauce or additional hoisin sauce to maintain the umami depth. You can use pre-cooked or instant noodles if time is limited, just adjust the stir-fry cooking time accordingly. Don't forget to taste the sauce before serving to balance saltiness and sweetness to your preference.
Tips
Ensure noodles are cooked just until al dente to prevent sogginess when stir-frying later. Keep all vegetables uniformly sliced to guarantee even cooking times and maintain the dish's crisp texture. Toast the cashews carefully in the wok to avoid burning, which can impart bitterness to the dish. When mixing the stir-fry sauce, your timing is crucial--add it immediately after combining noodles and vegetables to coat everything evenly without overcooking.
Nutritions
Shanghai Cashew Noodles provide a balanced mix of macronutrients, with wheat noodles supplying carbohydrates and protein, while raw cashews offer healthy fats and additional protein. Fresh vegetables like carrot, bell pepper, snap peas, and napa cabbage deliver essential vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants that support digestion and overall health. The dish includes garlic and ginger, known for their anti-inflammatory properties and immune-boosting effects. Your meal is enhanced with a flavorful soy-based sauce, contributing sodium and savory umami notes, so monitoring portion sizes can help maintain a balanced sodium intake.
Storage
Store Shanghai Cashew Noodles in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. Consume within 3-4 days, reheating thoroughly in a wok or microwave until steaming hot to ensure food safety. Avoid freezing to preserve the texture of the noodles and vegetables, which can become soggy upon thawing.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute rice noodles or udon noodles for wheat noodles for a different texture and taste. Toasting the cashews with a pinch of chili flakes adds a subtle heat, enhancing the overall flavor profile. If you prefer a vegan option, replace oyster sauce with mushroom soy sauce or a mushroom-based vegetarian stir-fry sauce. Using tamari instead of regular soy sauce reduces sodium content while maintaining the savory depth of the dish.
Allergies
Shanghai Cashew Noodles contain common allergens such as wheat in the noodles and soy in the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and oyster sauce, which may trigger reactions in individuals with gluten or soy allergies. Cashews and sesame seeds also pose risks for nut and seed allergies, respectively. Ensure you check ingredient labels carefully and inform your server about any food allergies to keep your meal safe and enjoyable.
Why this recipe?
Shanghai Cashew Noodles from Wok Box restaurant offers a unique blend of tender noodles, crunchy cashews, and savory sauces that create a harmonious texture and flavor profile. The dish's balanced combination of sweet and salty elements appeals to those seeking a satisfying and memorable meal. Your attempt to make the copycat version is worth trying because it allows you to customize ingredients to personal taste while enjoying a cost-effective, fresh alternative to dining out. Replicating this popular menu item at home also provides an opportunity to master authentic Asian-inspired cooking techniques.