Hokkien Mee : How to Make Singapore’s Iconic Stir-Fried Noodles

Hokkien Mee is a beloved dish in Singapore and Malaysia, known for its rich flavors, stir-fried noodles, and aromatic seafood broth. This dish, commonly found in hawker centers, combines thick yellow noodles with a flavorful mixture of shrimp, squid, and pork belly, all infused with the essence of wok hei (the smoky aroma from high-heat frying). Whether you enjoy it dry or with a slightly soupy texture, Hokkien Mee delivers a satisfying meal packed with umami flavors. In this article, we will explore the history, ingredients, preparation methods, variations, and cultural significance of this classic noodle dish.

The History of Hokkien Mee

Hokkien Mee traces its roots to the Fujian province in China, where Hokkien immigrants brought their culinary traditions to Southeast Asia. Over time, the dish evolved into distinct versions in Singapore and Malaysia, with each region adding its own twist.

In Singapore, Hokkien Mee is known for its semi-soupy consistency, where the noodles protogel absorb a rich seafood broth, making it flavorful and moist. On the other hand, Malaysian Hokkien Mee, especially in Kuala Lumpur, is a darker, drier stir-fried noodle dish cooked in a thick soy-based sauce.

Despite its variations, Hokkien Mee remains one of the most cherished dishes in Southeast Asia, enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.

Ingredients for Authentic Hokkien Mee

To make Singapore-style Hokkien Mee, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Noodles:

• 200g thick yellow noodles
• 150g thin rice vermicelli (bee hoon)

For the Broth:

• 300g prawn heads and shells (for stock)
• 1 liter water
• 2 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon white pepper
• 1 teaspoon fish sauce

For the Stir-Fry:

• 200g prawns, peeled and deveined
• 150g squid, sliced into rings
• 100g pork belly, sliced thinly
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or pork lard
• 200ml prepared prawn broth
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon oyster sauce
• 100g bean sprouts
• Chives, cut into small pieces

For Serving:

• Sambal chili paste
• Lime wedges
• Fried pork lard (optional for extra flavor)

These ingredients ensure a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making Hokkien Mee a truly delicious dish.

How to Make Hokkien Mee

Follow these steps to prepare an authentic and flavorful plate of Hokkien Mee:

Step 1: Preparing the Prawn Broth

1. In a pot, add prawn heads and shells along with 1 liter of water.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes.
3. Add garlic, salt, and fish sauce, then strain the broth and discard the prawn shells.
4. Set the broth aside for later use.

Step 2: Stir-Frying the Ingredients

1. Heat vegetable oil or pork lard in a wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add minced garlic and stir-fry until fragrant.
3. Toss in the sliced pork belly and cook until slightly crispy.
4. Add the prawns and squid, stir-frying until they turn opaque.
5. Push the ingredients to the side of the wok and pour in the beaten eggs.
6. Scramble the eggs lightly, then mix them with the other ingredients.

Step 3: Cooking the Noodles

1. Add both yellow noodles and rice vermicelli to the wok.
2. Pour in 200ml of the prepared prawn broth.
3. Stir-fry quickly, ensuring the noodles absorb the broth for a rich umami flavor.
4. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a dash of white pepper.
5. Toss in the bean sprouts and chopped chives, giving everything a final mix.

Step 4: Serving the Hokkien Mee

1. Transfer the cooked noodles onto a serving plate.
2. Garnish with lime wedges and sambal chili paste for an extra kick.
3. Sprinkle crispy fried pork lard over the top for added depth of flavor.
4. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy!

Variations of Hokkien Mee

There are several regional variations of Hokkien Mee, each offering a unique taste experience:

• Singapore Hokkien Mee – Semi-soupy, cooked in a prawn broth with eggs and seafood.
• KL Hokkien Mee – Dark and thick, coated in a rich soy-based sauce, often served with crispy pork lard.
• Penang Hokkien Mee – Spicy prawn noodle soup with a bold, fiery red broth.
• Dry Hokkien Mee – Stir-fried with less broth, resulting in a more concentrated, intense flavor.
• Vegetarian Hokkien Mee – Uses tofu and mushrooms instead of seafood and pork, offering a plant-based alternative.

Each version has its own loyal following, reflecting the dish’s versatility across different regions.

Hokkien Mee in Singaporean Cuisine

Hokkien Mee is a staple in hawker centers, night markets, and food courts across Singapore. Many stalls have perfected their own secret recipes, ensuring unique flavors that set them apart.

Some of the most famous places to enjoy Hokkien Me include:

• Geylang Lor 29 Hokkien Me – Known for its smoky wok hei and well-balanced flavors.
• Nam Sing Hokkien Me – A lighter version with more pronounced seafood flavors.
• Chomp Chomp Hokkien Me – A favorite among food lovers for its thick, flavorful broth.

Because of its widespread popularity, Hokkien Me is often featured in food festivals and cooking competitions, celebrating its importance in Singaporean cuisine.

Tips for the Perfect Hokkien Me

To achieve the best results when making Hokkien Me at home, keep these expert tips in mind:

• Use a well-heated wok – The high heat imparts the signature smoky wok hei flavor.
• Cook in small batches – Overcrowding the wok prevents even cooking.
• Let the noodles absorb the broth – This step enhances the dish’s deep umami flavors.
• Don’t overcook the seafood – Shrimp and squid should be tender, not rubbery.
• Adjust spice levels – Add sambal chili paste according to your preference for heat.

Hokkien Me is a dish that captures the essence of Singaporean cuisine, blending fresh seafood, aromatic broth, and stir-fried noodles into one irresistible meal. Whether enjoyed at a hawker stall or prepared at home, this dish delivers bold flavors that satisfy the palate.

By following this guide, you can create an authentic Hokkien Me that rivals the best hawker stalls in Singapore. Adjust the ingredients to your taste, experiment with different cooking techniques, and enjoy this flavorful noodle dish with family and friends
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