Craving a taste of Hawaii? This fried saimin recipe will transport you to the islands in less than 30 minutes! Picture noodles cooked tender and just right, glistening with savory sauce, and overflowing with crunchy veggies and your chosen protein. It’s a dish that’s as colorful as a Hawaiian sunset and as comforting as a warm embrace.
Did you know saimin is Hawaii’s national dish? It’s a lovely amalgam of Japanese, Chinese, and Filipino influence, the ultimate cultural fusion. Whether you’re a busy mom or dad searching for a quick weeknight dinner, or a foodie who’s willing to try new flavors, this fried saimin recipe is for you.
If you enjoyed my Hawaiian garlic shrimp recipe, you’ll love this fried saimin for the bold flavors and for how easy it is to make. So, grab your chopsticks, and let’s dive into this delicious adventure!

What is Fried Saimin?
Ever wonder why it’s called fried saimin? Is it that the noodles are the right kind of crispy fried, or that they’re so good they’ll make you dance in joy? Well, it’s a bit of both! Saimin is a classic Hawaiian noodle dish that has been a state favorite for generations. The name itself derives from the Chinese words for “thin” (sai) and “noodle” (min), a nod to the dish’s characteristic slender noodles.
Saimin is said to have been invented as a way to unite people, uniting ingredients from various cultural influences in one harmonious bowl. And we all know, isn’t food the greatest connector? Because, like they say, “the way to a person’s heart is through their stomach,” this fried saimin recipe is bound to the hearts of all who taste it. Ready to give it a go? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Fried Saimin
- It’s a Flavor Explosion in Every Bite
Fried saimin is about deep, savory flavor. The noodles, which are stir-fried, are tossed in a tasty sauce of soy sauce, oyster sauce and a touch of sesame oil. Throw in protein of your choice — shrimp, chicken, spam — and a rainbow of fresh veggies, and you’ll have a plate that’s as colorful as it is delicious. - Budget-Friendly and Easy to Make
While dining out can prove costly, this fried saimin recipe affords you an at-home taste of restaurant-worthy flavors without stiffing your wallet. Most of the ingredients should be in a well-stocked pantry, and you can quickly substitute whatever vegetables or proteins you have in the house. - Endless Customization Options
Love a little heat? Throw in some chili flakes or sriracha. Prefer a vegetarian version? Hold the meat; have extra tofu and mushrooms. The options are endless, making this dish a go-to for picky eaters and adventurous foodies alike.
If you’re a fan of my Hawaiian poke bowl recipe, you’ll appreciate how this fried saimin brings the same island vibes to your table. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get cooking!

How to Make Fried Saimin
Quick Overview
This fried saimin is Wu-Tang quick, Wu-Fam easy and hella satisfying. In fact, it has a prep time of only 10 minutes and a cook time of 15 minutes, so you’ll have a great meal on the table in no time. The true stars of the dish are the savory sauce that clings to each strand of noodle, and the assorted veggies and protein that provide a satisfying crunch and chew.
Key Ingredients for Fried Saimin
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 8 oz saimin noodles (or ramen noodles in a pinch)
- 1 cup chopped cabbage
- 1 cup protein of choice (shrimp, chicken, spam, or tofu)
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- Optional: sesame seeds, chili flakes, or fried egg for topping
- 1 green onion, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tsp sesame oil

Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: Boil the saimin noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Stir-Fry the Veggies and Protein: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and onion, and sauté until fragrant. Toss in your protein and cook until done. Add the carrots and cabbage, and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Toss everything together until the noodles are evenly coated and heated through.
- Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the fried saimin to a bowl, garnish with green onions and optional toppings, and dig in!
What to Serve Fried Saimin With
- Hawaiian Macaroni Salad: The creamy, tangy flavors of this classic side dish pair perfectly with the savory noodles.
- Grilled Pineapple: Add a touch of sweetness to your meal with caramelized pineapple slices.
- Iced Tea or Coconut Water: Keep it tropical with a refreshing drink to balance the rich flavors of the saimin.

Top Tips for Perfecting Fried Saimin
- Don’t Overcook the Noodles: Saimin noodles cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid mushiness.
- Customize Your Protein: Use whatever you have on hand—spam, shrimp, chicken, or even leftover roast pork.
- Add a Fried Egg: Top your saimin with a sunny-side-up egg for extra richness.
Storing and Reheating Tips
- Storing: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce to refresh the flavors. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the noodles soggy.

Table: Health Benefits of Fried Saimin
Ingredient | Health Benefit |
---|---|
Saimin Noodles | Provides energy-boosting carbohydrates |
Carrots | Rich in vitamin A for eye health |
Cabbage | High in fiber and antioxidants |
Protein (Shrimp/Chicken) | Supports muscle growth and repair |
Sesame Oil | Contains heart-healthy fats |
Fried Saimin Recipe From DelishDish!
How to Make Fried Saimin at Home
Course: main dishCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes15
minutes350
kcalThis Hawaiian fried saimin recipe is a quick and flavorful dish that combines tender noodles, savory sauces, and fresh veggies. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s easy to customize with your favorite proteins and toppings.
Ingredients
8 oz saimin noodles (or ramen noodles in a pinch)
2 tbsp vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, thinly sliced
1 cup shredded carrots
1 cup chopped cabbage
1 cup protein of choice (shrimp, chicken, spam, or tofu)
3 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tsp sesame oil
1 green onion, chopped (for garnish)
Optional: sesame seeds, chili flakes, or fried egg for topping
Directions
- Cook the Noodles: Boil the saimin noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Stir-Fry the Veggies and Protein: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and onion, and sauté until fragrant. Toss in your protein and cook until done. Add the carrots and cabbage, and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked noodles to the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Toss everything together until the noodles are evenly coated and heated through.
- Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the fried saimin to a bowl, garnish with green onions and optional toppings, and dig in!
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, replace the protein with tofu or extra veggies.
Adjust the spice level by adding chili flakes or sriracha.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat in a skillet for best results.
Conclusion
And there you have it, your all purpose guide for creating the perfect Hawaiian fried saimin! This dish is not just a meal, it’s a celebration of flavors and cultures and a joy of cooking. Whether you’re a kitchen expert or a novice cook, this recipe is meant to be easy, fast and downright delicious.
With its savory sauce, supple noodles and adaptable toppings, fried saimin makes for the ideal busy weeknight, family dinner or meal-prep dish. Also, it’s a great way to get a taste of Hawaii on your table without going anywhere.
So, what are you waiting for? Get your ingredients, heat up the stove, and let’s make magic together. And don’t forget to let me know how your fried saimin turns out in the comments below — I’d love to hear! If you looking for more mouth-watering recipes, make sure to check my blog for more delicious ideas!

FAQs : Fried Saimin Recipe
What is fried saimin?
Fried saimin is a popular Hawaiian dish made with stir-fried noodles, savory sauces, and a mix of vegetables and proteins. It’s a flavorful and quick meal inspired by Japanese, Chinese, and Filipino cuisines.
Can I use ramen noodles instead of saimin noodles?
Yes, you can use ramen noodles as a substitute for saimin noodles. They have a similar texture and work well in this recipe.
What proteins can I use in fried saimin?
You can use shrimp, chicken, spam, tofu, or even leftover roast pork. The recipe is highly customizable to suit your preferences.
How do I store leftover fried saimin?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or soy sauce to refresh the flavors.
Can I make fried saimin vegetarian?
Absolutely! Skip the meat and use tofu or extra vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or broccoli for a delicious vegetarian version.
What toppings go well with fried saimin?
Popular toppings include green onions, sesame seeds, fried eggs, chili flakes, or even a drizzle of sriracha for extra flavor.

Share Your Twist!
Made this Hawaiian fried saimin your own? We’d love to hear how! Did you add a spicy kick, swap the protein, or try a unique topping? Share your creations in the comments or tag me with #MyFriedSaimin. Let’s inspire each other! 🌺🍜