Char Kway Teow recipe is a beloved Southeast Asian stir-fried noodle dish, popular in Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia. This dish is known for its smoky aroma, rich flavors, and the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and spicy elements. Traditionally cooked in a wok over high heat, Char Kway Teow features flat rice noodles stir-fried with prawns, Chinese sausage, eggs, bean sprouts, and a flavorful soy-based sauce. It’s a street food favorite that has won the hearts of many across the world.
Brief Char Kway Teow Recipe Information
Origin Country: Malaysia & Singapore
Number of Servings: 2 servings
Number of Calories: 500 per serving
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Keywords: Char Kway Teow, stir-fried noodles, Malaysian cuisine, street food, wok cooking
Char Kway Teow Recipe Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili paste or sambal (optional, for spice)
- 200g fresh flat rice noodles (kway teow) or dried rice noodles (soaked and drained)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6-8 medium prawns, peeled and deveined
- 1 Chinese sausage (lap cheong), thinly sliced
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup bean sprouts
- 2 stalks Chinese chives or spring onions, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons chopped pickled radish (optional, for extra umami)
- 1/2 teaspoon shrimp paste (belacan) (optional, for authentic flavor)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce : In a small bowl, mix light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, sugar, white pepper, and chili paste. Stir well and set aside.
- Prepare the Wok : Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok over high heat. Add the garlic and stir-fry for a few seconds until fragrant. If using shrimp paste, add it now and stir-fry for another 10-15 seconds.
- Cook the Protein : Add prawns and Chinese sausage to the wok. Stir-fry for about 1-2 minutes until the prawns turn pink and the sausage starts to release its oil. Push everything to one side of the wok.
- Add the Egg : Crack the egg into the wok and scramble it quickly. Once slightly cooked, mix it with the prawns and sausage.
- Stir-Fry the Noodles : Add the noodles to the wok, followed by the sauce mixture. Toss everything together using tongs or a spatula to ensure the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until the noodles have absorbed the sauce and slightly charred.
- Add the Vegetables : Add bean sprouts and Chinese chives (or spring onions). Toss everything together quickly for another 30 seconds.
- Serve Immediately : Remove from heat and transfer the Char Kway Teow to serving plates. Garnish with extra chives or fresh lime wedges.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
- Use a Wok: A well-seasoned wok gives Char Kway Teow its signature smoky flavor, known as “wok hei” (breath of the wok).
- High Heat Cooking: Always cook on high heat for a quick stir-fry and avoid overcooking the noodles.
- Fresh Rice Noodles: If using fresh noodles, separate them gently before cooking to prevent clumping.
- Balanced Flavor: Adjust the sauce to your taste by adding more soy sauce for saltiness, sugar for sweetness, or chili paste for spiciness.
- Variations: Add squid, fish cakes, or cockles for a more seafood-rich version.
FAQ About Char Kway Teow Recipe
Can I use other types of noodles for Char Kway Teow?
Yes, while flat rice noodles (kway teow) are traditional, you can use other noodles like udon or egg noodles if rice noodles are unavailable.
How can I make Char Kway Teow vegetarian?
Omit the prawns, sausage, and fish sauce. Replace them with tofu, mushrooms, or extra vegetables. Use soy sauce instead of oyster sauce for a vegan-friendly option.
Why are my noodles sticking together?
If using fresh noodles, separate them before cooking. If using dried noodles, do not over-soak them. A drizzle of oil can also help prevent sticking.
What’s the best way to get wok hei (smoky flavor)?
Cook over the highest heat possible, keep the cooking time short, and use a well-seasoned wok. Do not overcrowd the wok.
Can I make Char Kway Teow ahead of time?
It is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and ingredients ahead of time for quick cooking when needed.
What side dishes go well with Char Kway Teow?
Pair it with a refreshing cucumber salad, pickled vegetables, or a bowl of soup for a complete meal.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a hot wok or pan with a splash of water.
Can I make Char Kway Teow without a wok?
Yes! Use a large frying pan, but ensure it is very hot before adding ingredients to mimic wok-style cooking.
Char Kway Teow is a delicious, flavorful stir-fried noodle dish that captures the essence of Southeast Asian street food. Whether you prefer it with prawns, chicken, or vegetarian-style, this dish is easy to customize and a must-try for noodle lovers. Cooking it at home allows you to enjoy its rich taste while adjusting ingredients to suit your preference. Enjoy your homemade Char Kway Teow with a side of sambal or lime wedges for an extra kick!