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Teochew Fish Soup with Rice
Lunch • Singapore
How to Make Teochew Fish Soup with Rice (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Teochew Fish Soup with Rice is a beloved dish in Singapore, often enjoyed in kopitiams and hawker centres across the island. Originating from the Teochew community, this comforting lunch staple is renowned for its clear, delicate broth and fresh fish slices, making it a favorite among Singaporeans seeking a lighter, nourishing meal. Over the years, the dish has been adapted with local vegetables and fusion touches, reflecting the multicultural vibrancy of Singapore's food scene. The soup is typically served with steamed rice, providing a satisfying balance of protein and carbohydrates. Its subtle flavors and clean taste profile appeal to those looking for a meal that's both flavorful and gentle on the palate. With hawker culture deeply woven into Singapore's daily life, Teochew Fish Soup with Rice is a classic lunch option—affordable, nutritious, and quick to prepare. This vegetarian adaptation captures the authentic essence while making it accessible to more dietary needs, blending tradition with health-conscious modern techniques. Choosing Teochew Fish Soup with Rice for lunch not only connects you to Singapore's rich culinary heritage but also offers a wholesome, low-oil meal ideal for calorie tracking. With its light broth, fresh ingredients, and minimal processing, this recipe is perfect for those wanting to enjoy an authentic Singapore experience while maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Ingredients(for 1 bowl of soup with 1 cup steamed rice)
- 200g Firm tofu (as vegetarian fish substitute)
- 1 cup, sliced White radish (daikon)
- 1 cup, chopped Chinese cabbage (local name: 'bak choy')
- 1 medium, sliced Tomatoes
- 4 slices Ginger (fresh)
- 2 stalks, chopped Spring onion
- 1 sheet, torn Seaweed (local name: 'nori') - optional
- 1 tablespoon Light soy sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon White pepper
- 4 cups Vegetable stock (low sodium)
- 2 cups Steamed rice (preferably jasmine rice)
- 1 teaspoon Cooking oil (can use olive or vegetable oil)
Instructions
- 1
Prepare the tofu by slicing into thick pieces. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
5 minutes
Use firm tofu for best texture and to mimic fish slices.
- 2
Heat oil in a soup pot. Add ginger slices and sauté until fragrant.
3 minutes
Ginger removes any bean taste from tofu and enhances aroma.
- 3
Add the radish and tomato. Stir-fry for 2 minutes to bring out natural sweetness.
2 minutes
Lightly caramelizing vegetables deepens the broth flavor.
- 4
Pour in vegetable stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
2 minutes
Simmering gently keeps the broth clear and light.
Why This Dish is Healthy
The dish is low in calories and saturated fat, with a balanced profile of protein, carbs, and fiber. Using tofu instead of fish makes it vegetarian and heart-friendly, and the abundance of vegetables boosts micronutrients. The clear, non-creamy broth keeps it light, ideal for weight management and those tracking macros. Its simplicity and fresh ingredients are hallmarks of healthy Singaporean food.
This vegetarian Teochew Fish Soup with Rice is packed with nutrients from tofu, vegetables, and seaweed. Tofu provides plant-based protein and calcium, while Chinese cabbage and radish offer dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants. Tomatoes supply lycopene, and ginger aids digestion. The broth is low in saturated fat and sodium when made with low-sodium stock, making it suitable for most dietary needs. The inclusion of rice ensures sustained energy from complex carbohydrates.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use fresh, firm tofu for best texture and flavor absorption.
- 💡Tip 2: Simmer the broth gently to keep it clear and avoid overcooking vegetables.
- 💡Tip 3: Add seaweed just before serving for the most authentic Teochew flavor.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid breaking tofu. Rice can be stored separately for freshness.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 390.0 kcal |
