Singapore Noodles (Singapore Mei Fun): A Vibrant, Flavorful Dish

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Singapore Noodles, also known as Singapore Mei Fun, is a standout item on Chinese takeout menus. This vibrant dish combines delicate rice noodles with curry spice, shrimp, char siu, and a medley of vegetables. Despite its name, Singapore Noodles doesn’t hail from Singapore—it’s a creation of Cantonese chefs influenced by the region’s multicultural flavors. This dish delivers a satisfying blend of textures, colors, and aromas, making it a favorite among food lovers worldwide. In this detailed guide, you’ll learn to recreate this iconic restaurant-style dish right in your kitchen.

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Why You’ll Love Singapore Noodles

• Burst of Flavors: The bold curry powder melds with the sweetness of shrimp and the savory char siu.
• Perfect Balance: Tender rice noodles soak up the spices, complemented by crunchy vegetables.
• Customizable: Adjust ingredients like protein and spice levels to suit your preferences.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

Noodles & Protein:

• 5 oz dried vermicelli rice noodles
• 12 large shrimp (peeled, deveined, and butterflied; about 6–8 oz)
• 2 eggs, beaten

Vegetables:

• 9 oz napa cabbage, shredded (about 3 cups)
• 1 medium carrot, julienned (2.5 oz/70g)
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced (2.5 oz/70g)
• 1 scallion, julienned

Seasonings & Aromatics:

• 2 cloves garlic, chopped
• 2–3 dried red chili peppers
• 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine (or dry cooking sherry)
• 2 tbsp curry powder (or to taste)
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
• ¼ tsp sugar
• ⅛ tsp white pepper
• ½ tsp sesame oil
• 1½ tsp soy sauce (or gluten-free soy sauce)

Optional:

• 2–4 tbsp chicken stock or water (for moisture)

Oil:

• 2½ tbsp vegetable oil (divided)

Meat:

• 4 oz char siu (Chinese roast pork) or substitute Virginia ham/Chinese sausage.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Noodles and Shrimp

• Rehydrate the rice noodles by soaking them in:
  • Cold water overnight, or
  • Hot water for 30 minutes, or
  • Boiling water for 1 minute (follow package instructions).
• Drain and use kitchen shears to cut noodles into 8–10-inch lengths for easier stir-frying.
• Peel, butterfly, and de-vein the shrimp. Rinse and pat them dry.

2. Cook the Eggs

• Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a wok over medium heat.
• Add beaten eggs, let cook until bubbly, and flip.
• Break the egg into rough strips and set aside.

3. Stir-Fry the Aromatics and Protein

• Heat 1½ tbsp oil in the wok. Add garlic and cook for 15 seconds.
• Add shrimp and char siu. Stir-fry for 15 seconds.

4. Incorporate Vegetables

• Pour Shaoxing wine around the wok’s perimeter. Stir-fry for 15 seconds.
• Add dried chili peppers, napa cabbage, and carrots. Stir-fry for 30 seconds.

5. Add Noodles and Seasonings

• Add the rehydrated rice noodles to the wok. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
• Sprinkle curry powder, salt, sugar, and white pepper evenly over the noodles.
• Use a lifting motion to toss and coat the noodles evenly. Scrape the wok’s bottom to prevent sticking.

6. Adjust Moisture

• If noodles appear dry, add chicken stock or water (2–4 tbsp) incrementally.
• Stir to combine, ensuring noodles remain moist and flavorful.

7. Final Touches

• Add sesame oil, soy sauce, and the cooked eggs. Toss for 1 minute.
• Stir in scallions and red onion. Cook for 20 seconds.

8. Serve

• Plate the noodles and serve immediately, optionally with chili oil for extra heat.

Flavors, Textures, and Aromas

• Flavors: The curry provides earthy, warm spice balanced by the sweet, briny shrimp and savory char siu. A touch of sesame oil enhances the nutty depth.
• Textures: Delicate rice noodles pair with tender shrimp, crisp vegetables, and soft egg ribbons.
• Aromas: A medley of curry, garlic, and toasted sesame tantalizes the senses.

Tips & Variations

• Protein Swaps: Substitute shrimp with chicken, tofu, or additional char siu.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat and use firm tofu or extra vegetables like bell peppers and snap peas.
• Spice Level: Adjust the number of chili peppers or use a milder curry powder.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure soy sauce and Shaoxing wine substitutes are gluten-free.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair with spring rolls, dim sum, or a simple cucumber salad.

Why Make Singapore Noodles at Home?

Preparing Singapore Noodles at home gives you control over ingredients and flavors, allowing for healthier, fresher results. It’s an impressive dish to serve at gatherings or a satisfying solo dinner that feels indulgent without being overly complicated.

Are you ready to bring the magic of Singapore Noodles to your table? With this easy-to-follow recipe, your kitchen will soon be filled with the enticing aroma of curry and stir-fried goodness.

Conclusion

Singapore Noodles is more than just a dish—it’s an experience. The vibrant blend of spices, tender rice noodles, and colorful vegetables creates a symphony of flavors and textures that delight the senses. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is approachable and rewarding.

The flexibility of Singapore Noodles allows you to adapt the ingredients to your liking, making it a versatile addition to your recipe repertoire. It’s a perfect way to bring a touch of restaurant-style indulgence to your table, while still enjoying the comfort of a home-cooked meal.

So why wait? Dive into this flavorful adventure and recreate the magic of Singapore Noodles in your own kitchen. Your taste buds will thank you, and this recipe might just become a beloved staple in your household!