If you’ve ever dreamed of capturing the vibrant flavors of a bustling Asian eatery right in your own kitchen, this Singapore Noodles Recipe is your golden ticket. It’s a stunning combination of fragrant curry, tender rice vermicelli, succulent shrimp, and a colorful parade of fresh vegetables, all coming together to create a dish that dances on your taste buds. Whether you’re a noodle lover or new to Asian cuisine, this recipe is approachable, full of texture, and packed with layers of savory goodness you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may seem simple, but each one plays a vital role in building the authentic layers of taste, texture, and color that make this Singapore Noodles Recipe so irresistible. From the delicate rice vermicelli that soaks up every bit of flavor, to the warming curry powder and fresh herbs that add brightness, this list ensures success in every bite.
- 8 oz rice vermicelli noodles: These thin noodles cook quickly and absorb flavors beautifully, making them perfect for the dish.
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Adds a juicy, protein-packed element that complements the spices.
- 2 eggs, beaten: Provides a soft, silky texture and a nice protein boost.
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced: Brings a vibrant color and a subtle sweetness to balance the spices.
- 1 carrot, julienned: Offers crunch and a touch of natural sweetness.
- 3 stalks green onion, sliced: Adds freshness with its mild oniony flavor, divided between white and green parts for layering tastes.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the oil with savory depth that carries through the entire dish.
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated: Delivers a warm, zesty kick that wakes up your palate.
- 2 tbsp soy sauce: The salty backbone that seasons and enhances all the ingredients.
- 1 tbsp curry powder: The star spice blend giving the dish its signature golden hue and complex flavor profile.
- 2 tsp sesame oil: Adds a nutty aroma and richness, stirred in at the end for impact.
- 2 tbsp neutral oil: Perfect for high-heat cooking without overpowering flavors.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Introduces bursts of sweetness and a juicy pop that contrast beautifully with the savory elements.
- 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped (optional): A touch of fresh herbaceousness to brighten up the final dish.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: To perfect the balance and bring all flavors into harmony.
How to Make Singapore Noodles Recipe
Step 1: Soak the Rice Vermicelli
Begin by placing your rice vermicelli noodles in a large bowl and covering them with hot water. Let the noodles soak for about 5 to 6 minutes until they are tender but not mushy. Drain the noodles thoroughly and set them aside — this ensures they remain light and perfectly textured when stir-fried later.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Heat 1 tablespoon of your neutral oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, cooking each side for about 2 to 3 minutes, until they’re a beautiful pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside for later. This step locks in their juiciness and adds a lovely seafood sweetness to the dish.
Step 3: Scramble the Eggs
Using the same skillet, pour in the beaten eggs and gently scramble them until they’re just set—soft and fluffy, not overcooked. Transfer the scrambled eggs to a plate to keep warm. These tender bits of egg bring an extra layer of softness and protein that perfectly complements the noodles and veggies.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to your skillet and toss in the minced garlic, grated ginger, thinly sliced red bell pepper, julienned carrot, and the white parts of the green onions. Stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly but still hold a bit of crunch. This creates a vibrant flavor base and adds lovely textural contrast.
Step 5: Toast with Curry Powder
Sprinkle the curry powder over the vegetables, stirring rapidly to coat everything evenly. Toast the spices for about 30 seconds — this step is essential as it helps release the complex aromas and deepens the overall flavor, making this Singapore Noodles Recipe truly unforgettable.
Step 6: Combine Noodles, Shrimp, and Eggs
Return the drained noodles, cooked shrimp, and scrambled eggs to the skillet. Add the soy sauce, then gently toss everything together, ensuring the curry-coated veggies infuse the noodles and proteins with their bold flavors. This is where all the components come together beautifully.
Step 7: Final Touches
Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and drizzle the sesame oil over the top. Cook everything for another 1 to 2 minutes to warm through and slightly soften the tomatoes without losing their fresh burst. These final touches give the dish a lively freshness and a hint of nutty richness.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Finish your Singapore Noodles Recipe by garnishing with the green parts of the sliced green onions and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro if you like. Serve the noodles hot and watch as their vibrant colors and enticing aromas captivate everyone at the table.
How to Serve Singapore Noodles Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh green onion tops and chopped cilantro add color and a hint of herbal brightness that balances the fragrant curry flavor. You can also sprinkle a few toasted sesame seeds for extra crunch and aroma, making the dish look professionally plated and inviting.
Side Dishes
To round out your meal, pair Singapore noodles with light sides like a crisp cucumber salad or a simple steamed bok choy dressed with garlic and soy. These sides add refreshing contrasts that complement the rich, spicy noodles perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive presentation, serve your Singapore Noodles Recipe in individual banana leaf bowls or atop a bed of fresh lettuce leaves. You can also top with crispy fried shallots or finely chopped peanuts to add surprising textures that elevate the eating experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Singapore noodles can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the noodles from sticking together, stir in a small drizzle of sesame or neutral oil before refrigerating.
Freezing
This dish isn’t ideal for freezing as the texture of the noodles and vegetables changes once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated and eaten within a few days for optimal flavor and texture.
Reheating
When reheating, warm the noodles gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Stir frequently to evenly heat and revive the fresh flavors and textures.
FAQs
Can I use a different protein instead of shrimp?
Absolutely! Chicken, tofu, or even thinly sliced beef work wonderfully in this Singapore Noodles Recipe. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly to ensure your protein is cooked perfectly.
Is curry powder essential for Singapore Noodles?
Yes, curry powder is key to achieving the signature flavor and color. You can experiment with mild or spicy blends depending on your preference, but it’s what gives the dish its unique character.
What can I substitute for rice vermicelli noodles?
If you can’t find rice vermicelli, thin rice stick noodles or even thin spaghetti can be a substitute, though texture and taste will vary slightly. Rice vermicelli has the perfect lightness and ability to soak up flavors.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the shrimp and use tofu or a mix of mushrooms instead. Also, replace the egg with scrambled tofu or omit it altogether while keeping the curry powder and veggies for a delicious vegetarian version.
How spicy is the Singapore Noodles Recipe?
Traditional versions can have a mild to medium spice level depending on the curry powder used. Adjust the seasoning or add fresh chilies if you love more heat. The balance of flavors means a little goes a long way.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve got the scoop on making this vibrant Singapore Noodles Recipe, it’s time to gather your ingredients and dive into the joy of cooking these flavorful, colorful noodles. It’s a dish that invites creativity, comforts the soul, and impresses at every meal. So go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to a taste sensation that’s truly one-of-a-kind!
Print
Singapore Noodles Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian, Chinese
Description
Singapore Noodles is a vibrant and flavorful stir-fried noodle dish featuring tender rice vermicelli, succulent shrimp, fresh vegetables, and aromatic curry powder. This quick and easy recipe delivers a perfect balance of spicy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors, making it a delicious choice for a weeknight meal or casual dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz rice vermicelli noodles
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 3 stalks green onion, sliced (separate white parts and green tops)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp curry powder
- 2 tsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp neutral oil (such as vegetable or canola oil)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tbsp cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Soak Noodles: Place the rice vermicelli noodles in a large bowl and cover with hot water. Soak for 5-6 minutes until tender, then drain and set aside.
- Cook Shrimp: In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of neutral oil over medium-high heat. Cook the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Scramble Eggs: In the same skillet, add the beaten eggs and scramble them gently until just set. Transfer the cooked eggs to a plate.
- Stir-Fry Vegetables: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of neutral oil to the skillet. Stir-fry the minced garlic, grated ginger, sliced red bell pepper, julienned carrot, and the white parts of the green onions for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened and fragrant.
- Add Curry Powder: Sprinkle the curry powder over the vegetables and stir well to coat. Let it toast for about 30 seconds to release its full flavor.
- Combine Noodles and Ingredients: Add the drained noodles, soy sauce, cooked shrimp, and scrambled eggs to the skillet. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to combine all flavors evenly.
- Finish with Tomatoes and Sesame Oil: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and drizzle the sesame oil over the mixture. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to warm through and meld flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with the green onion tops and chopped cilantro if using. Serve the Singapore Noodles hot for best taste.
Notes
- Rice vermicelli noodles soften quickly, so avoid over-soaking to prevent mushiness.
- You can substitute shrimp with chicken, tofu, or other proteins to suit your preference.
- Adjust curry powder quantity based on your spice tolerance and flavor preference.
- For a gluten-free version, use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce.
- Use a wok or large skillet for even cooking and easy tossing of ingredients.
