How to Make Tang Hoon Soup with Chicken (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Tang Hoon Soup with Chicken is a beloved staple in Singaporean kopitiams and hawker centres, offering a comforting, wholesome meal that balances delicate flavours and hearty nutrition. This classic dish features tang hoon, also known as glass noodles or mung bean vermicelli, simmered in a clear, savoury broth with tender chicken and fresh local vegetables. Singapore’s rich food heritage shines through in this bowl, with influences from Chinese and Peranakan communities, and a focus on fresh, light ingredients that are perfect for our tropical climate. At lunchtime, you’ll often spot office workers and families enjoying bowls of Tang Hoon Soup at bustling food courts, attracted by its lightness and satisfying taste. The silky noodles absorb the essence of the broth, while the medley of veggies and aromatic garnishes add layers of flavour and colour. Whether enjoyed as a quick weekday lunch or a nourishing weekend comfort food, this soup embodies the Singaporean spirit of fusion and balance. Its healthy, brothy nature makes it ideal for health-conscious diners looking for a dish that is both satisfying and gentle on the waistline.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Soak tang hoon in warm water for 10 minutes until softened
Soak tang hoon in warm water for 10 minutes until softened. Drain and set aside.
Step 2 · Heat a pot over medium heat
Heat a pot over medium heat. Add sesame oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
Step 3 · Add sliced chicken breast and stir-fry until just turning white
Add sliced chicken breast and stir-fry until just turning white.
Step 4 · Pour in chicken stock
Pour in chicken stock, bring to a gentle boil, and skim off any foam.
Step 5 · Add shiitake mushrooms
Add shiitake mushrooms, carrot, and napa cabbage. Simmer until vegetables are tender.
Step 6 · Add soaked tang hoon to the pot
Add soaked tang hoon to the pot. Season with light soy sauce and white pepper. Simmer for 2 minutes.
Step 7 · Ladle soup into bowls
Ladle soup into bowls. Garnish with spring onions and optional coriander leaves.
Why this recipe is healthy
This Singaporean Tang Hoon Soup with Chicken is a light yet filling meal, perfect for those tracking calories or aiming for a balanced diet. The clear broth is low in saturated fat, and the use of lean chicken breast ensures high protein content without excess calories. The addition of fresh vegetables and minimal oil supports digestive health and keeps the dish nutrient-dense, making it a top choice for maintaining or achieving a healthy weight.
A note on tradition
Tang Hoon Soup with Chicken is a fixture in Singapore’s hawker centres and local kopitiams, loved for its simplicity and comfort. It reflects the multicultural fusion that defines Singaporean food, blending Chinese soup traditions with local ingredients and light broths suited to our climate. Often enjoyed for breakfast or lunch, this dish is especially popular among those seeking lighter, nourishing meals during the humid months or after festive feasting.