How to Make Lor Mee (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Lor Mee is a beloved Singaporean hawker classic, often enjoyed at bustling kopitiams and food centres across the island. This hearty noodle dish is instantly recognizable for its thick, luscious gravy, chewy yellow noodles, and a medley of toppings including braised meat, fish cake, and a hard-boiled egg. Rooted in Singapore’s rich hawker culture, Lor Mee showcases the fusion of Chinese Hokkien influences and local ingredients, creating a truly unique and comforting meal. The taste of Lor Mee is complex—savory, aromatic, and slightly tangy—thanks to a deeply flavorful gravy thickened with corn starch and infused with garlic, five-spice, and a hint of vinegar. Traditionally enjoyed as a filling lunch, Lor Mee has evolved in Singapore to include healthier adaptations, focusing on leaner proteins and less oil while maintaining its authentic taste. Singaporeans love gathering over bowls of Lor Mee at their favorite kopitiams, reminiscing about heritage flavors while savoring every bite. This healthy recipe allows you to recreate the iconic Singaporean Lor Mee experience at home, perfect for those who crave comfort food without compromising wellness.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Prepare all ingredients: slice pork fillet and fish cake
Prepare all ingredients: slice pork fillet and fish cake, mince garlic, and hard-boil the egg. Set aside garnishes.
Step 2 · Blanch yellow noodles in boiling water for about 2 minutes until ju...
Blanch yellow noodles in boiling water for about 2 minutes until just softened. Drain and divide between two serving bowls.
Step 3 · Heat a non-stick pot over medium heat
Heat a non-stick pot over medium heat. Add minced garlic and stir-fry until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 4 · Add sliced pork and cook until just done
Add sliced pork and cook until just done. Stir in light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and five-spice powder.
Step 5 · Pour in chicken stock
Pour in chicken stock, bring to a gentle boil, and let simmer for 5 minutes. Then add fish cake slices.
Step 6 · Slowly stir in corn starch slurry
Slowly stir in corn starch slurry, mixing constantly until the gravy thickens to a smooth, rich consistency.
Step 7 · Ladle hot gravy
Ladle hot gravy, pork, and fish cake over noodles. Top each bowl with half a hard-boiled egg, chopped coriander, and sliced chili.
Step 8 · Serve immediately while hot
Serve immediately while hot. Enjoy your healthy, homemade Lor Mee just like at your favorite kopitiam!
Why this recipe is healthy
By focusing on lean cuts of pork, reducing oil, and using a lighter, homemade gravy, this Lor Mee recipe keeps calories in check while retaining authentic Singaporean flavor. The inclusion of fresh herbs and chili boosts antioxidants, while using whole eggs provides essential nutrients. This adaptation allows you to enjoy a classic hawker favorite with less guilt, supporting weight management and overall wellness.
A note on tradition
Lor Mee is a staple of Singaporean hawker culture, often found at popular food centres in regions like Tiong Bahru and Bukit Merah. Its origins can be traced to Hokkien immigrants, but today it is celebrated as a uniquely Singaporean creation, loved for its hearty portions and nostalgic flavors. Traditionally eaten for breakfast or lunch, Lor Mee is a testament to Singapore’s multicultural food heritage and the vibrancy of its kopitiam scene.