An interesting fact about the Chinese cuisine that often baffles Western food enthusiasts is the difference between Chow Mein and Lo Mein. More often than not customers dismiss any merits that distinguish them and simply categorize them together. But the fact of the matter is that there are subtle differences between a plate of Lo Mein and a plate of Chow Mein. The Chinese food menus in Charlottesville restaurants that serve authentic Asian cuisine always list them separately.

But why is that? Let us find out.

What to expect in a plate of Lo Mein?

One of the subtle differences between Lo Mein and Chow Mein is in their shape. Lo Mein comprises of cylindrical, long strings of thick-shaped noodles. Lo Mein resembles spaghetti by appearance. The term ‘lo’ is a phrase of Chinese origin, meaning ‘tossed .’ So, when you are ordering a plate of Chow Mein, you are essentially ordering noodles that have been tossed as opposed to being fried.

A few identifying features of a plate of Lo Mein are:

i. Lo Mein has a dry texture. As it is tossed in preparation, it does not become greasy due to being soaked in water and oil.

ii. Lo Mein is served with or in a sauce with a light texture and taste.

iii. The vegetables and meat are also shredded and tossed with the Lo Mein noodles.
What to expect in a plate of Chow Mein?

Chow Mein is made from the same milk, flour, and eggs that are used to make Lo Mein. Chow Mein noodles have a drier texture than Lo Mein. So much so, that they must be boiled before they are fried. The word ‘chow’ is of Chinese origin and means’ fried.’ Chow Mein is usually prepared in one of these two ways:

i. Crisp- In this recipe, the noodles are pressed hard to render a flat shape and then deep-fried.

ii. Steamed- In this format the noodles are boiled; light frying is optional.

You can identify a plate of Chow Mein by:

i. The sauce is usually thick in texture and spicy.

ii. The shredded vegetables and meat are plain added and stirred, as opposed to being tossed, as in the case of Lo Mein.

So, when you order food from the Chinese food menus in Charlottesville restaurants, know that the essential difference between Lo Mein and Chow Mein lies in how they are prepared.