Crispy, golden noodles topped with a savory stir-fry—mi xao don is a dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. This Vietnamese classic combines crunchy textures with tender vegetables and flavorful meat or seafood, creating a perfect balance in every bite. It’s the kind of meal that feels like comfort food but with a delightful twist.
What Is Mi Xao Don?
Mi Xao Don is a beloved Vietnamese noodle dish known for its crispy fried egg noodles paired with a savory stir-fry topping. The dish perfectly balances textures—crunchy, golden noodles contrast with tender meats, seafood, and vibrant vegetables coated in a flavorful sauce. It’s a versatile comfort food often served family-style for special occasions or casual meals.
To make Mi Xao Don, we first focus on preparing the noodles. We deep-fry fresh egg noodles until they puff up and turn golden brown, creating a crisp base for the dish. Next, we create the stir-fry topping by sauteing fragrant garlic with a choice of protein such as chicken, shrimp, or beef. Colorful vegetables like carrots, broccoli, and bok choy are added to the pan, bringing sweetness and crunch. Finally, we finish with a silky sauce made of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a cornstarch slurry to coat everything evenly.
The completed dish is assembled by layering the stir-fry over the crispy noodles. The sauce seeps into the noodles, softening parts of it while preserving some of the crunch. This interplay of textures and flavors makes Mi Xao Don a satisfying and memorable dish every time we enjoy it.
Ingredients
To make the perfect mi xao don, we need a lineup of fresh and flavorful ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of everything required for the crispy noodles, the savory sauce, and the protein and vegetables.
For The Crispy Noodles
- 8 ounces fresh egg noodles (thin egg noodles, chow mein, or Hong Kong-style pan-fried noodles work best)
- 2 cups vegetable oil (or avocado oil, canola oil, peanut oil) for frying
For The Stir-Fry Sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 3/4 cup chicken or vegetable stock
For The Protein And Vegetables
- 1/2 pound chicken, shrimp, or beef (thinly sliced)
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 medium carrot (julienned)
- 1 cup bok choy (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil for stir-frying
Tools And Equipment Needed
Making mi xao don requires the right tools and equipment to achieve its signature crispy noodles and vibrant stir-fry. Here’s everything we need to get started:
Cooking Equipment
- Large pot: We use this to boil water for rehydrating or cooking the egg noodles. It will also come in handy for blanching vegetables and proteins.
- Wok or large skillet: Essential for stir-frying the vegetables, proteins, and sauce. A wok’s design helps to evenly distribute heat, making it ideal for quick cooking.
- Deep frying pan or deep fryer: For frying the noodles until golden and crispy. The pan or fryer must be deep enough to hold at least 8 cups of vegetable oil to ensure even frying.
- Air fryer or oven (optional): Perfect for reheating crispy noodles without losing their delightful crunch.
Utensils and Tools
- Tongs, chopsticks, or spider strainers: These make handling and frying the noodles easier, ensuring they retain their shape while cooking.
- Thermometer: Maintaining the right oil temperature is crucial for crispy noodles. We’ll need a thermometer to keep the oil between 370°F and 380°F.
- Cutting board: A sturdy surface is necessary for slicing vegetables and proteins.
- Knife: To prepare our ingredients, we’ll need a sharp knife for precise slicing and chopping.
- Grater: This is optional but great for finely grating ginger if we decide to add a fresh, aromatic kick to our stir-fry.
With these tools and equipment, we’re ready to prepare mi xao don like a pro and enjoy its crispy, savory goodness.
Directions
Let’s dive into preparing mi xao don, ensuring each step brings out its signature crispiness and savory flavors. Follow these steps carefully for a satisfying dish.
Step 1: Prepare The Ingredients
- Noodles: If using dried egg noodles, cook according to package instructions and drain well. If using fresh noodles, blanch them in boiling water for 30 seconds, then rinse under cold water to halt the cooking process. Set aside to dry.
- Proteins: Clean and prepare your choice of protein. For seafood like shrimp, squid, or scallops, clean, devein, and cut them into bite-sized pieces. For chicken or beef, thinly slice, then marinate with 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine, 1/4 teaspoon salt, a pinch of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon cornstarch for at least 10 minutes.
- Vegetables: Chop veggies into bite-sized portions. Julienne carrots, cut broccoli into small florets, and chop bok choy. Mince 3 cloves of garlic and grate a small knob of ginger. Blanch harder vegetables like carrots and broccoli in boiling water for 2 minutes for tenderness.
Step 2: Fry The Noodles
- Heat 2 cups of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or wok until it reaches 370°F to 380°F. Use a thermometer to monitor.
- Separate the dried or fresh noodles into individual portions. Gently add one portion of the noodles into the hot oil using tongs or chopsticks.
- Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Remove and drain excess oil on paper towels. Repeat with the remaining portions.
Step 3: Make The Stir-Fry
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, stirring until fragrant for 30 seconds.
- Add the marinated protein and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same wok, toss in the prepared vegetables. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, adding a splash of water if needed to soften them slightly.
- Lower the heat and return the protein to the wok. Pour in the sauce mixture (2 tablespoons soy sauce, 2 tablespoons oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon fish sauce, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 teaspoon cornstarch, and 3/4 cup stock). Stir gently, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the stir-fry ingredients evenly.
Step 4: Combine And Serve
- Place the crispy fried noodle nests on serving plates. Spoon the hot stir-fry mixture over the top, letting some sauce seep into the noodles.
- Garnish with chopped scallions, cilantro, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for extra flavor. Serve immediately while the noodles remain crispy.
- Enjoy this delightful balance of crispy, savory, and tender textures!
Tips For Success
Crafting the perfect mi xao don requires careful attention to detail to achieve its hallmark crispy noodles and bold flavors. Follow these helpful pointers to create a dish that shines every time.
Choosing The Right Noodles
Selecting the right noodles is fundamental for that iconic crispiness. We recommend using fresh or refrigerated egg noodles as they fry up golden and light, offering the ideal crunch. Chow mein or thin egg noodles are excellent for this dish. If you use dried egg noodles, be sure to par-boil them, drain thoroughly, and let them air dry before frying. For those needing a gluten-free alternative, rice vermicelli can serve as a substitute, though the texture and taste will differ slightly. Avoid thick or overly starchy noodles, as they won’t deliver the same crispy satisfaction.
Flavor Adjustments
The sauce is what ties together the crispy noodles and vibrant stir-fry. Don’t hesitate to tweak the flavor to suit your preferences. For a slightly sweeter profile, add a touch more sugar. If you prefer a richer umami taste, increase the oyster or soy sauce incrementally. Spice enthusiasts can mix in freshly sliced chilies or a splash of chili oil for some heat. Always taste the sauce as you go, adjusting the balance between salty, sweet, and savory to your liking.
Variations Of Mi Xao Don
Mi Xao Don is a versatile dish that adapts beautifully to different tastes and dietary preferences. By swapping out proteins and adjusting the vegetables or seasonings, we can create a range of delicious versions:
Mi Xao Don Ga (Chicken Version)
For a classic and approachable option, we use thinly sliced boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Marinate the chicken in soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of sugar for added depth of flavor. Pair it with crunchy vegetables like broccoli, carrots, and bok choy to complement the crispy noodles. This version is hearty yet light, perfect for any meal of the day.
Mi Xao Don Do Bien (Seafood Version)
Seafood lovers, this one’s for you. Featuring shrimp, squid, or scallops—or a combination of all three—this variation brings a touch of coastal elegance to the dish. Cook the seafood quickly on high heat to keep it tender and juicy. Add snow peas, bell peppers, and mushrooms for a colorful, aromatic mix. A splash of fish sauce in the stir-fry sauce enhances the umami flavors beautifully.
Mi Xao Don Bo (Beef Version)
For a savory and rich option, thinly slice tender cuts of beef like sirloin or flank steak. Marinate the beef in oyster sauce, soy sauce, and a sprinkle of cornstarch to make it extra tender. Stir-fry it with onions, bell peppers, and a bit of ginger for a robust and satisfying meal.
Mi Xao Don Chay (Vegetarian Version)
The vegetarian version shines with its vibrant medley of vegetables. We use tofu, fresh or fried, as the protein substitute, adding a layer of richness to the dish. Load up on broccoli, bok choy, snap peas, and julienned carrots for a refreshing crunch. Amp up the sauce with soy sauce, a dash of hoisin sauce, and vegetable stock for maximum flavor.
Customizing To Your Taste
The beauty of Mi Xao Don is the flexibility to make it your own. We encourage experimenting with different vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or Chinese cabbage. Try mixing proteins, such as chicken with shrimp, for a surf-and-turf twist. Add heat with slices of fresh chili or chili oil for a spicy kick.
This adaptability ensures Mi Xao Don can satisfy every palate while staying true to its signature crispy noodle base.
Make-Ahead And Storage Instructions
When making mi xao don, timing is everything to preserve the crispy, golden perfection of the noodles and the vibrant flavors of the stir-fry. While this dish is best served fresh, there are ways to prepare components ahead of time and store them properly.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Noodles Preparation: For perfectly crispy noodles, we recommend cooking the fresh egg noodles first, then letting them dry completely before frying. This step ensures the noodles achieve their signature crunch. You can do this the day before and store the dried cooked noodles in an airtight container until ready to fry.
- Stir-Fry Components: Save time by prepping the stir-fry mixture in advance. Slice and marinate the protein (chicken, shrimp, or beef) and chop all the vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, and bok choy. Prepare the sauce by mixing soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, sugar, cornstarch, and chicken or vegetable stock in a small bowl. Keep each element stored in separate containers in the refrigerator.
| Component | Storage Method | Storage Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Cooked noodles | Airtight container | Up to 24 hours |
| Marinated protein | Refrigerated container | Up to 24 hours |
| Chopped vegetables | Refrigerated bag or box | Up to 24 hours |
| Stir-fry sauce | Sealed jar or container | Up to 2 days |
Storage Instructions
- Crispy Noodles: If you’ve already fried the noodles but haven’t mixed them with the stir-fry, store them in a reusable gallon bag or airtight container at room temperature. They’ll stay crunchy for up to one week. Make sure they’re kept in a cool, dry place away from moisture.
- Assembled Mi Xao Don: If you end up with leftovers after combining the crispy noodles and stir-fry, store everything in resealable containers in the refrigerator. Unfortunately, the noodles will lose their crispiness after sitting in the sauce, but they’ll still be delicious. Reheat this in a wok or frying pan over medium heat to revive the flavors.
| Item | Storage Method | Storage Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Fried noodles | Airtight at room temp | Up to 1 week |
| Combined leftovers | Airtight in fridge | Up to 2 days |
By following these make-ahead and storage tricks, we can enjoy the convenience of prepping mi xao don in advance while ensuring its flavors and textures remain as delightful as possible.
Conclusion
Mi xao don is more than just a dish; it’s an experience that brings together bold flavors, vibrant ingredients, and irresistible textures. Whether we’re savoring it with family or experimenting with our own adaptations, it offers endless possibilities to suit every taste.
With a little preparation and the right techniques, we can recreate this Vietnamese classic in our own kitchens. Let’s embrace the joy of crispy noodles and flavorful stir-fry, turning every bite into a celebration of comfort and creativity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Mi Xao Don?
Mi Xao Don is a Vietnamese dish featuring crispy, deep-fried egg noodles topped with a savory stir-fry of vegetables, protein (like chicken, beef, or shrimp), and a delicious sauce made from soy sauce, oyster sauce, and stock. It’s known for its unique combination of crunchy textures and bold flavors.
How are the noodles made crispy in Mi Xao Don?
The noodles are deep-fried in vegetable oil at 370–380°F until golden and crisp. Alternatively, you can use an air fryer or oven to achieve a similar crunch.
What proteins and vegetables work best for Mi Xao Don?
Popular proteins include chicken, shrimp, or beef. For vegetables, options like broccoli, carrots, bok choy, and other colorful stir-fry vegetables work well. You can also customize it to suit your preferences.
Can I make Mi Xao Don vegetarian?
Yes, you can make Mi Xao Don Chay (vegetarian) by omitting meat and using tofu or mushrooms as protein alternatives. Adjust the sauce with vegetarian oyster sauce or soy-based substitutes.
How do I store leftover Mi Xao Don?
Store fried noodles separately in an airtight container to preserve crispiness. Keep the stir-fry in another container. While mixed leftovers may lose the crunch, reheating in an air fryer or oven can restore some texture.
Can I prepare Mi Xao Don in advance?
Yes, you can prepare components ahead. Fry the noodles, store them, and chop vegetables or marinate protein in advance. Combine and stir-fry fresh for the best flavors and textures.
Are there gluten-free options for Mi Xao Don?
You can use gluten-free noodles like rice vermicelli as an alternative to egg noodles. Ensure the sauces used are labeled gluten-free.
What equipment do I need to make Mi Xao Don?
You’ll need a deep pan for frying noodles, a wok or skillet for stir-frying, a pot for boiling water, and utensils like tongs or strainers. Optional tools include an air fryer or thermometer for precise cooking.
How can I adjust the flavor of the stir-fry sauce?
You can balance the sauce by tweaking the salty (soy sauce), sweet (sugar), and savory (oyster sauce or fish sauce) elements to suit your taste preferences.
What are common variations of Mi Xao Don?
Popular variations include Mi Xao Don Ga (chicken), Mi Xao Don Do Bien (seafood), Mi Xao Don Bo (beef), and Mi Xao Don Chay (vegetarian). Customize the dish based on your preferred proteins and vegetables.
About The Author
