Thunder Tea Rice
Hawker • Singapore
About Thunder Tea Rice
Hakka rice with assorted vegetables and herbal tea broth
How to Make Thunder Tea Rice (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Thunder Tea Rice, known locally as Lei Cha Fan, is a vibrant, nourishing dish deeply rooted in Singapore’s hawker culture. This wholesome meal is a reflection of Singapore’s multicultural heritage, with Hakka influences and a fusion of flavors that have evolved in kopitiams and local food stalls. Thunder Tea Rice is celebrated for its distinct green herbal tea broth, poured over a colorful assortment of finely chopped vegetables, tofu, peanuts, and brown rice. Its name comes from the vigorous pounding of herbs to create the potent tea paste, which releases an aromatic 'thunder' of flavors. Perfect for health-conscious eaters, this vegan and vegetarian-friendly dish offers a symphony of tastes and textures—earthy, nutty, and umami-rich—while being light on the palate and easy to digest. Thunder Tea Rice is not only a staple at many Singaporean lunches but also a symbol of balance and wellness, making it a favorite amongst those seeking wholesome, plant-based meals in the city’s bustling hawker centers.
Ingredients(for 1 rice bowl (approx. 400g) with vegetables and tea broth)
- 1 cup Brown rice (Cooked; healthier alternative to white rice)
- 100g Firm tofu (Diced)
- 1 cup Kangkong (Water spinach, chopped)
- 1/2 cup Long beans (Finely chopped)
- 1/2 cup Cabbage (Shredded)
- 2 tbsp Pickled radish (chai poh) (Rinsed to reduce salt)
- 2 tbsp Roasted peanuts (Unsalted)
- 1 tbsp Sesame seeds (Toasted)
- 1/2 cup Fresh basil leaves (Sweet basil)
- 1/4 cup Fresh mint leaves
- 1/4 cup Coriander leaves
- 1 tbsp Roasted green tea leaves (Or green tea powder)
- 2 cloves Garlic (Chopped)
- 2 tsp Olive oil (For sautéing)
- To taste Salt - optional
Instructions
- 1
Cook the brown rice according to package instructions. Fluff and set aside.
15 minutes
Use slightly less water for firmer rice that holds its shape in the bowl.
- 2
Sauté each vegetable (kangkong, long beans, cabbage) separately in 1/2 tsp olive oil until just tender. Season lightly with salt.
8 minutes
Quick stir-frying preserves nutrients and keeps vegetables vibrant.
- 3
Pan-fry diced tofu cubes in olive oil until golden on all sides. Drain on paper towel.
6 minutes
Press tofu before frying to remove excess water for crispier texture.
- 4
Prepare the Thunder Tea paste: In a blender, combine basil, mint, coriander, roasted green tea leaves, garlic, peanuts, and sesame seeds. Blend with 1/2 cup hot water until smooth.
4 minutes
Add hot water gradually for a creamy, pourable consistency.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This traditional Singaporean Thunder Tea Rice is an ideal healthy choice as it features minimally processed ingredients, low sodium, and zero animal products. The high fiber content promotes satiety and stable blood sugar levels, supporting weight management and overall wellness. By using brown rice and sautéing with minimal oil, this recipe maximizes nutritional value while maintaining authentic flavors.
Thunder Tea Rice is a nutrient-rich, plant-based meal packed with dietary fiber, vitamins A, C, and K from leafy greens like kangkong and basil. The combination of brown rice, tofu, and peanuts provides a balanced mix of complex carbohydrates, plant-based protein, and healthy fats. This dish is low in saturated fat, cholesterol-free, and filled with antioxidants and phytonutrients from fresh herbs, making it excellent for heart health and digestion.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use local greens like sweet potato leaves or sayur manis for authentic flavor.
- 💡Tip 2: Make the tea paste ahead and store in the fridge for quick assembly.
- 💡Tip 3: Chop all vegetables evenly for a beautiful, kopitiam-style presentation.
Storage & Serving
Store components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat rice and vegetables gently before serving. Prepare tea broth fresh for best flavor.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 320.0 kcal |
| Protein | 12.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45.0 g |
| Total Fat | 10.0 g |
| Fiber | 5.0 g |
