Mie goreng is the Indonesian fried noodle dish commonly made with yellow wheat noodles.
The name means “fried noodles” in Indonesian and Malay. Mie goreng is typically stir-fried with vegetables, egg and a protein such as chicken, shrimp or beef. Sweet soy sauce, garlic, shallots and chili contribute much of its characteristic flavor, although recipes vary widely across Indonesia and neighboring countries.
The noodles are usually yellow wheat noodles, often fresh or briefly boiled before stir-frying. Street vendors and restaurants may cook each portion to order in a hot wok, creating lightly charred edges and concentrated seasoning. Toppings can include fried shallots, crackers, tomato or cucumber.
Mie goreng is related to Chinese-influenced noodle dishes found throughout Southeast Asia, but it is not the same as Chinese chow mein. Indonesian sweet soy sauce and local spice combinations give mie goreng its distinctive profile.