Introduction
Singapore Noodles are a delightful dish that offers a vibrant combination of flavors and textures. This recipe brings together delicious vermicelli noodles, tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a medley of vegetables, all harmonized by a savory sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal to impress guests, let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need to create this culinary delight.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Dried vermicelli noodles: 100 g / 3.5 oz (not glass noodles)
Singapore Noodles Sauce:
Light soy sauce: 3 tbsp (or all-purpose soy; not dark soy)
Chinese cooking wine (Shaoxing wine): 3 tbsp
Curry powder: 3 tsp
White sugar: 1 tsp
White pepper: 1/2 tsp (sub black pepper)
Chicken:
Skinless boneless chicken thighs: 150 g / 5 oz (sub breast or tenderloin), cut in half lengthways then finely sliced into 5mm / 1/5″ strips
Cooking salt / kosher salt: 1/4 tsp
Curry powder: 1/2 tsp
Stir fry add-ins:
Plain oil (canola, vegetable, or peanut): 2 tbsp
Eggs: 2, whisked
Streaky bacon: 100 g / 3 oz, chopped into small pieces
Brown onion: 1/2, finely sliced
Garlic cloves: 3, finely minced
Red capsicum (bell pepper): 1, deseeded and finely sliced
Bean sprouts: 1 very heaped cup (or more leafy greens)
Baby spinach: 1 very heaped cup (or other cookable leafy greens or more bean sprouts)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes
Yield
Serves 2-3 people
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Sauce Preparation
In a small bowl or jug, combine the light soy sauce, Chinese cooking wine, curry powder, white sugar, and white pepper. Mix well and set aside.
Seasoning the Chicken
In a bowl, toss the sliced chicken thighs with cooking salt and curry powder. Ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
Noodle Preparation
Prepare the dried vermicelli noodles according to the packet directions, typically by soaking them in boiled water for 3 to 5 minutes. Once ready, drain the noodles in a colander.
Making Egg Ribbons
Heat a small amount of the plain oil in a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Pour the whisked egg into the pan in a swirl to create a thin omelette. Once the surface is set (about 30 seconds), slide or flip the omelette onto a cutting board. Allow it to cool so it can be handled, then roll it up into a cigar shape and cut into 7mm (1/3″) strips. Gently separate the strips to form egg ribbons.
Stir-Frying Ingredients
In the same pan, heat the remaining oil over high heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook for 1 minute. Next, add the finely sliced onion and cook until it begins to wilt and the bacon turns light golden, about 2 minutes. Add the seasoned chicken to the pan and cook until the surface is seared. Incorporate the minced garlic and finely sliced red capsicum, cooking for an additional 2 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.
Combining Noodles and Veggies
Add the baby spinach, followed by the bean sprouts, then the drained noodles, and finally pour over the prepared sauce. Using two spatulas, toss the mixture well for 1 1/2 minutes or until the sauce has stained the noodles. Understand that some noodle breakage is normal during this process.
Final Assembly
Gently toss in the egg ribbons, taking care to disperse them throughout the dish without breaking them apart too much. Serve the Singapore Noodles immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
Soy Sauce
Use either light or all-purpose soy sauce, avoiding dark soy sauce due to its strong flavor and intense color.
Chinese Cooking Wine
Shaoxing wine is essential for authentic flavor in Asian noodles. If unavailable, substitute with Mirin, cooking sake, or dry sherry. For a non-alcoholic option, use 1/3 cup (80 ml) of low sodium chicken stock; extend the tossing time for an extra minute or two.
Curry Powder
Utilize standard curry powder found in grocery stores, such as Clives or Keens, avoiding hot varieties unless desired for heat.
Storage
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but this dish is not suitable for freezing.
Cook techniques
Mixing Sauce
Combine light soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, curry powder, white sugar, and white pepper in a small bowl or jug to create a well-balanced sauce.
Seasoning Chicken
In a bowl, toss sliced chicken thighs with cooking salt and curry powder to enhance the flavor before cooking.
Preparing Noodles
Soak dried vermicelli noodles in boiled water according to package instructions (usually 3-5 minutes), then drain them in a colander for use in the stir fry.
Creating Egg Ribbons
Heat a small amount of oil in a non-stick pan over medium-high heat, pour in whisked eggs to form a thin omelette, cook briefly, roll it up, and slice into ribbons.
Stir-Frying
In the same pan, heat remaining oil and cook chopped bacon until lightly golden. Add sliced onion, then chicken, cooking until seared, and lastly add garlic and capsicum for additional flavor.
Combining Ingredients
Add baby spinach, bean sprouts, noodles, and sauce in that order, tossing with spatulas for about 1.5 minutes until evenly coated.
Finishing Touches
Gently fold in egg ribbons and serve the dish immediately for optimal freshness.
FAQ
Can I use different types of noodles?
Yes, but ensure they are suitable for stir-frying. Avoid using glass noodles as they behave differently compared to vermicelli.
What can I substitute for Shaoxing wine?
You can use Mirin, cooking sake, or dry sherry as substitutes. For a non-alcoholic option, low sodium chicken stock works as well.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This dish is not suitable for freezing.
What kind of curry powder should I use?
Use regular curry powder found in grocery stores, and avoid hot varieties if you do not wish for added heat.
Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?
Yes, you can replace the chicken and bacon with tofu and use vegetable broth instead of the Chinese cooking wine for a vegetarian version.
Conclusion
This delicious Singapore Noodles recipe highlights the perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it a delightful dish for any occasion. With a combination of tender chicken, savory bacon, and fresh vegetables, all tied together with a flavorful sauce, this meal is sure to impress. Quick to prepare and rich in nutrients, it can easily become a favorite in your household.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Add shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
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Incorporate tofu for a vegetarian option while still enjoying the vibrant flavors.
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Experiment by adding other vegetables like carrots or snap peas for added crunch and nutrition.
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Mix in cashews or peanuts for a nutty flavor and extra texture.
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Use different types of noodles such as rice noodles or egg noodles to vary the dish.
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Try adding some chili flakes for an extra kick if you prefer a spicy dish.
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Serve with lime wedges on the side for a refreshing citrus touch.
