Singapore Noodles (Singapore Mei Fun)

If you’re looking for a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings, let me introduce you to my beloved Singapore Noodles (Singapore Mei Fun). This recipe is a delightful combination of tender rice noodles, colorful vegetables, and protein— all tossed together with aromatic curry powder. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and joy to the table.

What makes this dish so special is how versatile it is. You can whip it up in just about 30 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for those evenings when time is tight but you still want something delicious. Plus, it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike, making it a staple in our home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep and cooking time, you can have this tasty dish ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: The colorful presentation and delicious flavors make it a hit with everyone at the table.
• Customizable: Feel free to mix and match your favorite proteins and veggies to suit your family’s tastes.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a large batch ahead of time for easy lunches throughout the week.
• Full of flavor: The blend of curry powder and fresh ingredients creates an irresistible taste that’s hard to beat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that will come together beautifully in this dish. Most of these can be found at your local grocery store or Asian market, making this recipe as accessible as it is delicious.

For the Noodles

• 6 ounces thin rice noodles
• 2 large eggs (beaten)
• 1½ tablespoons garlic (minced) (about 3-4 cloves)
• 3 ounces Chinese BBQ roast beef (cut into thin strips)
• 2 leaves napa cabbage (cut into thin strips width-wise)
• ½ large carrot (peeled and cut into matchstick pieces)
• 1 stalk celery (cut into thin matchstick pieces)

For the Flavoring

• 1 tablespoon Shaoxing rice apple vinegar
• 1½ tablespoons curry powder (more or less to your preference)
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric (optional for color)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1½ teaspoon chicken bouillon powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon Chinese chili oil (optional)

For the Protein

• 3 ounces skinless boneless chicken breast (cut into thin strips)
• 3 ounces small shrimps (peeled and deveined)

For Cooking

• Oil (any neutral oil as needed for cooking)
• 2 stalks green onion (just the green parts cut into 2-inch pieces, optional)
• ½ tablespoon water
• ½ teaspoon Shaoxing rice apple vinegar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch
• ½ teaspoon oil (any neutral oil)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways you can customize your Singapore Noodles:

• Swap the protein: Use tofu or tempeh instead of chicken or shrimp for a vegetarian version.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for added nutrition and crunch.
• Change up the spice: If you love heat, add more chili oil or some diced jalapeños!
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular soy sauce with a gluten-free variety if you’re avoiding gluten.

How to Make Singapore Noodles (Singapore Mei Fun)

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Start by soaking your thin rice noodles in hot water according to package instructions until they are tender. This step ensures that your noodles will have the perfect texture when stir-fried later. Drain them well and set aside while you prep other ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Eggs

In a large skillet or wok over medium heat, add a splash of neutral oil. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them until just set. Removing them from the pan early ensures they stay soft and tender—perfectly complementing the chewy noodles later!

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

Next, add minced garlic to the same skillet. Sauté until fragrant but not browned—this will release its natural sweet aroma. Then toss in your prepared chicken strips; cooking them until they are no longer pink allows all those delicious flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

Once your chicken is cooked through, it’s time to stir in napa cabbage, carrots, celery, and any additional veggies you’ve chosen. Stir-frying these ingredients helps maintain their crispness while infusing them with flavor from the pan.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Now comes the exciting part! Add your soaked noodles back into the skillet along with curry powder, oyster sauce, seasonings, and scrambled eggs. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly so each noodle gets coated with that gorgeous yellow hue from the curry.

Step 6: Final Touches

Finish off by drizzling in some chili oil if desired, giving everything one last toss before serving. Garnish with green onions for an extra pop of color and flavor! Enjoy every bite of this delightful Singapore Noodles (Singapore Mei Fun), knowing you’ve created something truly special.

Pro Tips for Making Singapore Noodles (Singapore Mei Fun)

Making Singapore Noodles at home can be a delightful experience, especially when you follow these handy tips!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and proteins not only enhance the flavor but also provide a vibrant color and texture to your dish.

• Soak noodles properly: Soaking the rice noodles in warm water until they are soft but not mushy ensures that they cook evenly and don’t become clumpy during stir-frying.

• Control the heat: Cooking on high heat allows for that coveted wok hei (the breath of the wok), which gives the noodles a distinct smoky flavor. Just be sure to keep everything moving in the pan!

• Customize your spice level: Adjusting the amount of curry powder and chili oil lets you tailor the dish to your personal taste, making it milder or spicier as you prefer.

• Prep ahead: Having all your ingredients chopped and ready to go before starting to cook helps streamline the process and makes for a smoother cooking experience.

How to Serve Singapore Noodles (Singapore Mei Fun)

Presenting your Singapore Noodles beautifully can elevate your dining experience. Here are some ideas for serving this delightful dish:

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of cilantro adds a refreshing aroma and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice right before eating brightens up the flavors and adds a zesty kick.
• Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds provide a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that complements the dish perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Egg Drop Soup: This light soup is simple yet comforting, featuring silky egg ribbons in a flavorful broth—perfect for warming up on chilly evenings.

• Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with fresh veggies make an excellent crunchy complement to the soft noodles, adding texture contrast.

• Crab Rangoons: These creamy, crispy bites filled with cream cheese and crab offer a delightful richness that pairs wonderfully with Singapore Noodles.

• Stir-Fried Broccoli with Garlic: A side of vibrant green vegetables sautéed with garlic is not only healthy but also adds an aromatic element that beautifully balances your meal.

Enjoy crafting your own delicious plate of Singapore Noodles, and remember—it’s all about making it your own!

Make Ahead and Storage

Singapore noodles are fantastic for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy a delicious homemade dish throughout the week. With a few simple storage tips, you can keep these noodles fresh and flavorful.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the Singapore noodles to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container to ensure freshness.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion the noodles into individual servings for easy thawing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; label with the date for easy reference.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a non-stick skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil to prevent sticking.
• Stir until heated through; microwave is also an option if you’re short on time.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Singapore Noodles (Singapore Mei Fun).

Can I use other proteins in Singapore Noodles (Singapore Mei Fun)?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute chicken and shrimp with tofu, beef, or any other protein you prefer. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What type of rice noodles should I use for Singapore Noodles?

Thin rice noodles are the best choice for Singapore Noodles (Singapore Mei Fun). Look for “mei fun” or “rice vermicelli” at your local grocery store or Asian market.

Is it necessary to use curry powder?

While curry powder is what gives Singapore Noodles their signature flavor, you can adjust the quantity or omit it entirely if you prefer a milder taste. Experiment with other spices if you’d like!

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe brings joy and warmth to your kitchen! Singapore Noodles (Singapore Mei Fun) is not only quick and easy but also bursting with flavor and color. Enjoy making this delightful dish, whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or meal prep for busy weekdays. I’m sure you’ll love every bite—happy cooking!