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
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Bring the chicken stock to a boil in a pot
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.
Step 2 · In the same broth
In the same broth, add prawns and cook until they turn pink, about 2 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Step 3 · Heat sesame oil in a small pan
Heat sesame oil in a small pan. Sauté shallots and garlic until fragrant and golden, about 2 minutes.
Step 4 · Add light soy sauce and Shaoxing wine (if using) to the aromatics
Add light soy sauce and Shaoxing wine (if using) to the aromatics, then pour everything into the broth. Season with white pepper.
Step 5 · Blanch hor fun noodles and choy sum in boiling water for 1 minute
Blanch hor fun noodles and choy sum in boiling water for 1 minute. Drain and divide between two serving bowls.
Step 6 · Arrange sliced chicken
Arrange sliced chicken, prawns, and choy sum on top of the noodles. Ladle over the hot broth.
Step 7 · Garnish with sliced spring onions
Garnish with sliced spring onions. Serve hot, optionally with sliced red chili or pickled green chilies for extra heat.
Why this recipe 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.
A note on tradition
Ipoh Hor Fun is a staple in Singapore’s hawker and kopitiam scene, especially in neighborhoods with significant Chinese communities. It is commonly enjoyed for breakfast or lunch, offering a lighter alternative to heavier noodle dishes. Its popularity is a testament to Singapore’s love for noodle soups and the city’s ability to adapt classic recipes with local ingredients and preferences. While originally inspired by Malaysian roots, Singapore’s Ipoh Hor Fun stands out for its clear broth, tender toppings, and simple yet satisfying flavors.