Sunny Side Up Eggs
Lunch • Singapore
About Sunny Side Up Eggs
Sunny side up eggs are a staple on the menus of many Singapore hawker centres, usually ordered as a simple yet satisfying add-on to main dishes like nasi lemak, economic rice, or kaya toast sets. The whites are cooked just enough to hold their shape while the yolks remain runny, perfect for mixing into rice or mopping up with bread. While the preparation is straightforward, a good sunny side up is judged by its crispy edges and glossy, intact yolk. In terms of nutrition, eggs are a relatively light option, with about 90 kcal per 100g (roughly 1.5 large eggs). Most hawker stalls fry them with a small drizzle of vegetable oil, which adds some extra calories. The dish is balanced in protein and fat but doesn’t offer much fibre—so if you’re watching your diet, opt to pair it with plenty of vegetables or wholegrain bread, and maybe limit yourself to one if you’re already eating other rich items. Egg yolks are naturally high in cholesterol, a minor consideration for those tracking their intake, but for most folks, a sunny side up now and then is reasonably healthy.
How to Make Sunny Side Up Eggs (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Sunny Side Up Eggs are a classic staple across Singapore, found in almost every kopitiam (traditional coffee shop) and hawker centre. This simple yet iconic dish is beloved for its golden, runny yolk and crispy edges, frequently served alongside kaya toast and kopi for breakfast or as part of a light lunch. The appeal of Sunny Side Up Eggs lies in their versatility and nostalgic connection to Singaporean mornings, where locals gather to kickstart their day. In Singapore, Sunny Side Up Eggs are more than just a breakfast item—they’re a symbol of comfort and community, enjoyed by people of all ages. With Singapore's multicultural influences, you’ll often find them paired with local condiments like light soy sauce and a sprinkle of white pepper, lending a uniquely local twist. This healthy, home-cooked version uses minimal oil and incorporates fresh local greens, making it perfect for calorie-conscious eaters who still crave authentic kopitiam flavours.
Ingredients(for 1 egg with salad per person (kopitiam style))
- 2 large Fresh eggs (preferably kampung eggs)
- 1 teaspoon Cooking oil (use canola or sunflower for health)
- 1 cup Baby spinach (local sayur bayam) - optional
- 6 pieces Cherry tomatoes (halved) - optional
- 1 teaspoon Light soy sauce (for drizzling)
- 1/8 teaspoon White pepper (to taste)
- 2 slices Wholegrain bread (optional, for serving) - optional
- 1 tablespoon Spring onions (finely chopped, for garnish) - optional
- as needed Olive oil spray (for salad) - optional
- a pinch Salt (optional, for taste) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Prepare all ingredients. Wash the baby spinach and cherry tomatoes thoroughly. Halve the cherry tomatoes and set aside.
5 minutes
Use local sayur bayam for authentic flavour.
- 2
Heat a non-stick pan over medium-low heat. Add 1 teaspoon of cooking oil and swirl to coat evenly.
2 minutes
A non-stick pan helps reduce the need for excess oil.
- 3
Crack each egg gently into a small bowl, then slide onto the pan one at a time. Cook without flipping until the whites are set but yolks remain runny, about 3-4 minutes.
4 minutes
For even cooking, cover the pan briefly with a lid.
- 4
Drizzle a few drops of light soy sauce and sprinkle white pepper over each egg while still in the pan.
1 minute
Soy sauce adds umami and is a kopitiam favourite.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This Sunny Side Up Eggs recipe is a healthy choice because it uses heart-friendly cooking oil and incorporates nutrient-rich greens for extra fibre and antioxidants. Using wholegrain bread instead of white increases satiety and keeps blood sugar stable. Minimal seasoning and fresh ingredients make it suitable for most diet plans without sacrificing authentic Singaporean flavour.
Sunny Side Up Eggs are a good source of high-quality protein, essential amino acids, and healthy fats. Eggs provide vitamins such as B12, D, and choline, which support brain and metabolic health. By using minimal oil and pairing with fresh vegetables, this dish offers a balanced meal low in carbohydrates, high in nutrients, and suitable for calorie-conscious diets.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use the freshest eggs for the best flavour and texture.
- 💡Tip 2: For perfectly round eggs, use an egg ring in the pan.
- 💡Tip 3: Sprinkle soy sauce and pepper while the eggs are still hot to enhance aroma.
Storage & Serving
Best eaten fresh. If needed, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat gently in a non-stick pan to avoid overcooking the yolk.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 90.0 kcal |
Cultural Notes
Sunny side up eggs are a familiar sight at hawker stalls, valued as a quick side or breakfast component. They’re commonly added to rice or toast sets, enjoyed by locals of all ages.
