How to Make Green Apple Kerabu Salad (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Green Apple Kerabu Salad is a refreshing and vibrant dish inspired by Singapore’s multicultural hawker scene, where fusion salads often grace the lunch tables at bustling kopitiams. The term 'kerabu' refers to a type of tangy salad popular in Peranakan and Malay kitchens, and here, we give it a modern, healthy twist by using crisp green apples as the star ingredient. This salad blends the tart juiciness of green apples with local herbs, crunchy vegetables, and a zesty lime dressing, reflecting Singapore’s love for bold, balanced flavors and fresh produce. Hawker centres across Singapore are known for their inventive salads and fruit-based side dishes, making this Green Apple Kerabu a natural fit for local lunch menus. Its lightness and tangy notes make it perfect for Singapore’s tropical climate and health-conscious diners. Whether enjoyed as a main or an accompaniment, this dish delivers a symphony of textures and tastes, making it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a nutritious, satisfying lunch with authentic Singaporean flair.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Wash and core the green apples
Wash and core the green apples, then slice them into thin matchsticks. Immediately toss with a little lime juice to prevent browning.
Step 2 · Julienne the carrot and thinly slice the cucumber and red onion
Julienne the carrot and thinly slice the cucumber and red onion. Place all vegetables in a large mixing bowl.
Step 3 · Add chopped coriander leaves and mint leaves to the bowl for a burs...
Add chopped coriander leaves and mint leaves to the bowl for a burst of freshness.
Step 4 · Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl
Prepare the dressing: In a small bowl, combine lime juice, light soy sauce, palm sugar, and salt. Stir until sugar dissolves completely.
Step 5 · Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients
Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients. Toss everything gently to coat evenly.
Step 6 · Top the salad with roasted peanuts and sliced chili
Top the salad with roasted peanuts and sliced chili. Toss lightly before serving.
Step 7 · Serve immediately as a refreshing lunch or side dish
Serve immediately as a refreshing lunch or side dish. Pair with a glass of unsweetened barley water for a true Singaporean kopitiam experience.
Why this recipe is healthy
This salad is a healthy choice because it is low in calories, high in vitamins, and packed with fiber. It uses fresh, minimally processed ingredients and a light dressing, avoiding heavy oils and artificial additives. The natural sweetness of apples and palm sugar means minimal added sugar, making it ideal for calorie-conscious and health-focused individuals.
A note on tradition
Green Apple Kerabu reflects Singapore’s vibrant hawker culture, where fresh salads and fruit-based dishes are popular for lunch, especially in the Central and East Coast regions. This modern fusion salad draws on Peranakan and Malay influences—kerabu salads are often enjoyed at family gatherings and festive occasions, but today, they’re also a healthy favorite for office workers at kopitiams and canteens.