Chow Mein

炒面 Also: Chow Mien, Chow Main, Stir-Fried Noodles
Gluten: Likely contains restriction
Shellfish: Likely contains restriction
Soy: Likely contains restriction

Crispy or soft stir-fried wheat noodles with vegetables and choice of protein, seasoned with soy sauce and oyster sauce.

Allergen data cross-referenced against published allergen databases.

Your dietary restrictions

The full allergen breakdown is below. Select your restrictions to see a personalized safety status.

Full allergen breakdown

Ingredients

  • wheat noodles (Gluten)
  • soy sauce (Soy)
  • oyster sauce (Shellfish)
  • sesame oil (Sesame)
  • vegetables
  • protein
  • Shaoxing wine

Hidden Ingredients

These ingredients are not typically listed on menus but are present in traditional preparations.

  • wheat throughout the noodles
  • oyster sauce (shellfish + wheat)
  • sesame oil as finishing flavor
  • Shaoxing wine (wheat)

Allergen Breakdown

Dairy-Free

Likely OK

No dairy in chow mein.

Gluten-Free

Likely contains restriction

Wheat noodles, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and Shaoxing wine all contain wheat.

Peanut-Free

Likely OK

Peanuts are not typically in chow mein.

Tree Nut-Free

Likely OK

No tree nuts in chow mein.

Shellfish-Free

Likely contains restriction

Oyster sauce contains oyster extract.

Egg-Free

Check with staff

Some chow mein recipes include egg. Egg noodles are sometimes used.

Fish-Free

Likely OK

Fish is not a standard chow mein ingredient.

Soy-Free

Likely contains restriction

Soy sauce is the primary seasoning.

Sesame-Free

Likely contains restriction

Sesame oil is typically added as a finishing ingredient.

Vegetarian

Check with staff

Vegetable versions exist but oyster sauce contains shellfish. Verify a vegetarian oyster sauce is used.

Key risk: Chow mein noodles are wheat-based. The sauce contains soy sauce (wheat + soy), oyster sauce (shellfish + wheat), and Shaoxing wine (wheat). This dish contains wheat from at least four different sources and is one of the most gluten-dense dishes in Chinese cuisine.

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Important: Dish Scout is a reference guide, not medical advice. Traditional recipes vary by restaurant, region, and chef. Always verify ingredients with restaurant staff before ordering. When in doubt, don't eat it.