How to Make Bak Kut Teh (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Bak Kut Teh, meaning "meat bone tea" in Hokkien, is a beloved Singaporean dish that captures the essence of Singapore's hawker culture and multicultural culinary scene. Traditionally enjoyed in bustling kopitiams, Bak Kut Teh is a peppery pork rib soup infused with a fragrant blend of garlic, white pepper, and aromatic herbs. Its origins trace back to the early Chinese immigrants, but today it stands as a national comfort food enjoyed by Singaporeans of all backgrounds. Modern Bak Kut Teh in Singapore boasts a lighter, more pepper-forward broth than other regional variants, making it both flavorful and ideal for health-conscious diners. Its warming, invigorating qualities make it a favorite not just for dinner but also for breakfast or lunch, often accompanied by steamed rice and youtiao (dough fritters). With fusion influences and a wide range of herbal additions, this dish evolves in the hands of each kopitiam chef, creating a uniquely Singaporean identity. Whether you’re savoring it at a hawker stall or preparing it at home, Bak Kut Teh is a nourishing, heartwarming meal perfect for anyone seeking authentic Singaporean flavors.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Blanch pork ribs in boiling water for 5 minutes to remove impurities
Blanch pork ribs in boiling water for 5 minutes to remove impurities. Drain and rinse under running water.
Step 2 · In a large pot
In a large pot, add 1.5 litres of water. Bring to a boil, then add blanched pork ribs, garlic cloves, and crushed white peppercorns.
Step 3 · Lower heat to medium and simmer for 10 minutes
Lower heat to medium and simmer for 10 minutes. Skim off any scum that appears on the surface.
Step 4 · Add light soy sauce
Add light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and salt. Stir to combine. Add optional oyster mushrooms and dang gui if using.
Step 5 · Continue to simmer for another 8 minutes until pork is tender and f...
Continue to simmer for another 8 minutes until pork is tender and flavors meld.
Step 6 · Taste and adjust seasoning if needed
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat. Ladle soup and ribs into bowls.
Step 7 · Garnish generously with chopped spring onions
Garnish generously with chopped spring onions. Serve hot with steamed rice or youtiao if desired.
Why this recipe is healthy
This healthy Bak Kut Teh recipe is a smart choice for calorie-conscious eaters, as it uses lean pork, minimal oil, and lots of natural flavors from herbs and pepper. The broth is clear and not greasy, making it lighter than many other dinner options. With high protein and low carb content, it fits well in balanced diets and supports muscle health while helping you manage your weight.
A note on tradition
Bak Kut Teh is a staple in Singapore’s vibrant hawker centres and kopitiams, beloved by locals for its homely flavors and communal dining experience. Traditionally eaten for breakfast or lunch, it’s often shared among friends and family. While its origins are rooted in Chinese immigrant communities along the Singapore River, today, Bak Kut Teh is a symbol of Singapore’s fusion food culture, with each region and kopitiam offering their own twist.