Ipoh Hor Fun
Hawker • Singapore
About Ipoh Hor Fun
Flat rice noodles in chicken and prawn broth — silky smooth
How to Make Ipoh Hor Fun (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Ipoh Hor Fun is a beloved dish in Singapore's vibrant hawker culture, often enjoyed in bustling kopitiams and food centres. This comforting bowl features silky flat rice noodles bathed in a light, aromatic chicken and prawn broth, topped with tender poached chicken and fresh prawns. Singapore’s version of Ipoh Hor Fun is a testament to the city’s multicultural tapestry, blending Chinese culinary traditions with local flavors and ingredients. The name ‘Hor Fun’ refers to the flat rice noodles, while ‘Ipoh’ pays homage to the dish’s roots, though it has been embraced and uniquely adapted by Singaporeans. Here, it’s common to find this dish at lunchtime, where the warm, flavorful broth and simple toppings provide a wholesome and satisfying meal. The gentle seasoning and lightness of the dish make it a fantastic choice for those seeking a nourishing, lower-calorie lunch. Singapore’s fusion influence is evident in the subtle use of soy sauce, fragrant shallot oil, and a medley of garnishes that cater to local palates. Ipoh Hor Fun is a great choice for anyone looking to experience the best of Singaporean street food culture in a health-conscious way. Its delicate yet robust flavors, paired with lean proteins and minimal oil, create a well-balanced and delicious meal that celebrates both tradition and nutrition.
Ingredients(for 1 large bowl per person)
- 200g Flat rice noodles (hor fun) (fresh hor fun, available in local markets)
- 150g Skinless chicken breast (poached)
- 6 pieces Medium prawns (peeled and deveined)
- 600ml Low-sodium chicken stock (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 2 bulbs Shallots (thinly sliced)
- 1 tbsp Light soy sauce
- 1 tsp Shaoxing wine (optional for depth) - optional
- 1 handful Choy sum or baby bok choy (blanched)
- 1/4 tsp White pepper
- 1 tsp Sesame oil
- 2 stalks Spring onions (sliced for garnish)
Instructions
- 1
Bring the chicken stock to a boil in a pot. Add chicken breast and poach for 10 minutes until fully cooked. Remove chicken, let cool, then slice thinly.
12 minutes
Do not overcook chicken to keep it tender and moist.
- 2
In the same broth, add prawns and cook until they turn pink, about 2 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3 minutes
Cooking prawns briefly ensures they stay juicy.
- 3
Heat sesame oil in a small pan. Sauté shallots and garlic until fragrant and golden, about 2 minutes.
3 minutes
Use low heat to avoid burning the aromatics.
- 4
Add light soy sauce and Shaoxing wine (if using) to the aromatics, then pour everything into the broth. Season with white pepper.
2 minutes
Adjust soy sauce to taste for saltiness.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This healthy Ipoh Hor Fun recipe is crafted with wholesome ingredients and mindful cooking methods. By poaching rather than frying, it reduces fat content, while using fresh vegetables and lean meats ensures high-quality protein and micronutrients. The light, clear broth is gentle on the stomach and free of artificial additives, making it suitable for calorie-conscious and heart-healthy diets.
Ipoh Hor Fun is nutrient-rich, featuring lean proteins from chicken and prawns, complex carbohydrates from rice noodles, and vitamins from leafy greens like choy sum. The broth is low in fat, especially when using skinless chicken breast and minimal oil. Garlic and spring onions add antioxidants, while using less soy sauce helps manage sodium intake. Overall, this dish provides a good balance of protein, essential minerals, and dietary fiber.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use freshly made hor fun for the best texture and taste.
- 💡Tip 2: Poach chicken at a gentle simmer to keep it juicy.
- 💡Tip 3: Prepare toppings and garnishes ahead to streamline assembly.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover broth and toppings in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently and blanch fresh noodles before serving to maintain texture.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 420.0 kcal |
| Protein | 18.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 50.0 g |
| Total Fat | 16.0 g |
| Fiber | 1.0 g |
