How to Make Hokkien Mee (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Hokkien Mee is a beloved Singaporean noodle dish that reflects the nation’s rich hawker culture and culinary fusion. Often found sizzling on large woks in vibrant kopitiams and hawker centres, Hokkien Mee is a comforting stir-fry of yellow noodles and thick bee hoon, tossed with prawns, squid, and a flavorful seafood broth. Its origins trace back to Chinese Hokkien immigrants who adapted their traditional recipes to Singapore’s local ingredients and tastes, making it a true symbol of the island’s multicultural food scene. The dish is renowned for its savoury aroma and smoky wok hei, often served with sambal chilli and a squeeze of fresh calamansi lime. Today, Hokkien Mee is enjoyed by all ages for dinner or supper, bringing families and friends together. This healthy version uses less oil, lean proteins, and increased vegetable content, making it perfect for those tracking their calorie intake while still indulging in an authentic Singaporean experience. Whether you’re a regular at your neighbourhood kopitiam or recreating local flavours at home, Hokkien Mee offers a delicious taste of Singapore’s hawker heritage.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Prepare all ingredients
Prepare all ingredients. Soak thick bee hoon in water for 10 minutes, clean and slice squid, shell and devein prawns, and mince garlic.
Step 2 · Heat half the oil in a large wok over medium-high heat
Heat half the oil in a large wok over medium-high heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add chicken and prawns, stir-fry until prawns turn pink.
Step 3 · Add squid slices and stir-fry for another minute
Add squid slices and stir-fry for another minute. Push seafood to the side, add beaten egg, and scramble lightly.
Step 4 · Add yellow noodles and soaked bee hoon
Add yellow noodles and soaked bee hoon. Pour in chicken stock, light soy sauce, fish sauce, and white pepper. Toss everything to combine.
Step 5 · Simmer uncovered until most of the stock is absorbed but noodles re...
Simmer uncovered until most of the stock is absorbed but noodles remain moist. Add bean sprouts and chives, stir-fry briefly until just wilted.
Step 6 · Drizzle remaining oil around the wok edges for wok hei
Drizzle remaining oil around the wok edges for wok hei. Stir-fry on high heat for a final minute.
Step 7 · Serve immediately
Serve immediately, garnished with calamansi lime and sambal chilli on the side.
Why this recipe is healthy
This Hokkien Mee recipe is a healthy choice because it emphasises lean proteins, less oil, and fresh vegetables, making it suitable for calorie-conscious diners. The balance of macronutrients helps sustain energy without excessive fat. By increasing the proportion of seafood and reducing processed sauces, the dish maintains authentic Singaporean flavours while supporting a healthier lifestyle.
A note on tradition
Hokkien Mee is a staple at Singapore’s hawker centres, especially in regions like Geylang and Bugis. It is a dish enjoyed at both family dinners and late-night suppers, embodying the communal spirit of Singaporean kopitiam culture. Its origins in the Hokkien community highlight Singapore’s rich tapestry of food fusion, and it remains a must-try for locals and visitors seeking true hawker fare.