How to Make Tang Hoon Salad (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Tang Hoon Salad, also known as glass noodle salad, is a beloved dish found in many Singaporean hawker centres and kopitiams. This vegetarian salad showcases the vibrant fusion influences that define Singapore’s food scene, blending Chinese and Southeast Asian flavors into a refreshing, light, and satisfying meal. Tang Hoon (glass noodles) are prized for their springy texture and ability to soak up bold dressings, making them perfect for salads loaded with crunchy vegetables and aromatic herbs. In Singapore, Tang Hoon Salad is often enjoyed as a lunch option, especially by those seeking a healthy, meat-free meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. The dish features a medley of crisp local vegetables like carrots, cucumber, and bean sprouts, tossed in a tangy, umami-rich dressing. Roasted peanuts and fresh coriander add layers of texture and flavor, while a touch of chili gives it that signature Singaporean kick. Its lightness, ease of preparation, and adaptability have made Tang Hoon Salad a modern staple for busy urbanites and traditional food lovers alike.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Soak the tang hoon (glass noodles) in warm water for 10 minutes unt...
Soak the tang hoon (glass noodles) in warm water for 10 minutes until soft. Drain and set aside.
Step 2 · Blanch the softened noodles in boiling water for 1 minute
Blanch the softened noodles in boiling water for 1 minute. Drain immediately and rinse with cold water to stop cooking.
Step 3 · Prepare the vegetables: julienne carrot and cucumber
Prepare the vegetables: julienne carrot and cucumber, rinse bean sprouts, and chop fresh coriander.
Step 4 · In a large mixing bowl
In a large mixing bowl, combine light soy sauce, lime juice, sesame oil, and sugar. Whisk well to create the dressing.
Step 5 · Add the drained noodles
Add the drained noodles, vegetables, and half the peanuts to the bowl. Mix thoroughly until everything is coated with dressing.
Step 6 · Plate the salad and top with sliced red chili
Plate the salad and top with sliced red chili, remaining peanuts, and chopped coriander.
Why this recipe is healthy
Tang Hoon Salad is a naturally balanced option for those aiming for a nutritious, filling meal without excess calories. Its high vegetable content aids digestion and satiety, while the use of light soy sauce and minimal oil keeps the dish light. The absence of animal products makes it suitable for vegetarians and easily adaptable for vegans. It’s a great lunch choice for anyone watching their weight or seeking a wholesome meal inspired by Singapore’s hawker culture.
A note on tradition
Tang Hoon Salad is representative of Singapore’s vibrant hawker culture, where quick, healthy, and affordable meals are enjoyed daily. This salad is commonly served at local kopitiams and food courts, often as a light lunch or side dish. Its popularity stems from its adaptability and the way it reflects the multi-ethnic influences of Singaporean cuisine. It’s especially favored during hot weather for its cooling, refreshing taste.