Bak Chor Mee (dry)
Hawker • Singapore
About Bak Chor Mee (Dry)
Tossed noodles with vinegar, chilli, minced pork, and liver
How to Make Bak Chor Mee (Dry) (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Bak Chor Mee (Dry) is a beloved staple of Singaporean hawker culture, found in almost every bustling kopitiam and food centre across the island. This iconic noodle dish features springy wheat noodles tossed in a tangy, savoury sauce, topped with minced pork (bak chor), mushrooms, fish balls, and crispy bits, all finished with a dash of vinegar and sambal for a burst of flavour. The 'dry' version means the noodles are served tossed, not in soup, allowing the bold umami flavours to shine through. Steeped in the multicultural essence of Singapore, Bak Chor Mee reflects the city’s fusion influences, blending Chinese Teochew traditions with local tastes. Whether enjoyed during a quick lunch break or as a late-night supper, Bak Chor Mee (Dry) is a comfort food that brings together families and friends, uniting generations at the kopitiam table. With its combination of lean protein, fresh vegetables, and a lighter oil base, this healthy version allows you to savour authentic Singaporean flavours while keeping your health goals in check. Perfect for those who want to enjoy the heart of Singapore’s food heritage in a wholesome way.
Ingredients(for 1 standard kopitiam bowl per serving)
- 200g Fresh mee pok (flat egg noodles) (available at wet markets or supermarkets)
- 120g Lean minced pork (use 90% lean for lower fat)
- 4 pieces Fresh shiitake mushrooms (sliced)
- 6 pieces Fish balls (optional, for authentic local touch) - optional
- 2 leaves Lettuce leaves (for garnish and crunch)
- 2 cloves Chopped garlic (finely minced)
- 2 tbsp Light soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1.5 tbsp Black vinegar (Chinkiang vinegar for authenticity)
- 1 tbsp Sambal chilli (adjust to taste) - optional
- 1 tbsp Fried shallots (for garnish) - optional
- 1 tsp Cooking oil (use canola or olive oil for health)
- 2 stalks Spring onions (sliced for garnish)
Instructions
- 1
Prepare all ingredients: mince garlic, slice mushrooms, chop spring onions, and wash lettuce leaves. Set aside separate bowls for each topping.
5 minutes
Prep ingredients before cooking for quick assembly.
- 2
Bring a large pot of water to boil. Add mee pok noodles and cook for 1-2 minutes until just al dente. Drain and rinse briefly under cold water to stop cooking.
5 minutes
Don’t overcook noodles; they should remain springy and chewy.
- 3
Heat 1 tsp oil in a non-stick pan. Sauté garlic until fragrant, then add minced pork and mushrooms. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until pork is cooked through and mushrooms are soft. Set aside.
6 minutes
Use lean pork and minimal oil to keep it healthy.
- 4
Blanch fish balls in boiling water for 2 minutes if using. Remove and set aside.
2 minutes
Use fresh fish balls for best texture.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Choosing lean meats and increasing vegetable content makes this Bak Chor Mee (Dry) a healthier option compared to traditional versions. By controlling oil and using low-sodium sauces, this meal is heart-friendly and fits well into a calorie-conscious diet. The inclusion of fibre-rich mushrooms and lettuce aids digestion, while the high protein content supports muscle maintenance and satiety. This recipe is ideal for anyone seeking a wholesome, flavourful Singaporean meal without compromising on health.
This healthy Bak Chor Mee (Dry) recipe is balanced in macronutrients, featuring lean protein from minced pork and fish balls, complex carbohydrates from mee pok noodles, and dietary fibre from lettuce and mushrooms. Shiitake mushrooms provide B vitamins and antioxidants, while spring onions add vitamin K and C. Using minimal oil and low-sodium soy sauce helps manage fat and sodium intake, making it suitable for most diets. The dish is filling yet moderate in calories, supporting sustained energy throughout the day.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use fresh mee pok for the best texture; dried noodles can work in a pinch but may lack chewiness.
- 💡Tip 2: Control the amount of vinegar and sambal to suit your taste—traditional stalls often adjust this per customer.
- 💡Tip 3: For extra flavour, simmer mushrooms in a little stock before stir-frying.
Storage & Serving
For best quality, enjoy Bak Chor Mee (Dry) immediately after preparation. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat gently in a microwave or steamer, adding a splash of water to refresh noodles. Avoid freezing as noodle texture may deteriorate.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 460.0 kcal |
| Protein | 22.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 52.0 g |
| Total Fat | 18.0 g |
| Fiber | 2.0 g |
