National Dish Singapore: Fried Wanton Mee (Recipe)
In this article
Meet Fried Wanton Mee, one of Singapore’s most beloved street-food noodle dishes! It brings together springy fried egg noodles, crisp golden wontons and a savoury tangle of tender meat, fresh greens and fragrant sauce. Every mouthful is a play of textures and bold, moreish flavours that captures the buzz of a hawker centre. With just a wok and a handful of ingredients, you can recreate this Singaporean favourite in your own kitchen.
About Fried Wanton Mee
Fried Wanton Mee is a famous dish in Singapore, celebrated for the way it layers contrasting flavours and textures. Its two stars — fried egg noodles and crispy wontons — form a wonderfully satisfying base, usually served alongside tender meat, fresh vegetables and an aromatic sauce. It is not only delicious but also a perfect showcase for the sheer variety of Asian cuisine. The dish reflects the cultures and traditions that have shaped Singapore, making it a must-try for any food lover exploring Singaporean cooking.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 200 g egg noodles
- 10 wontons (filled with meat or vegetables)
- 150 g chicken breast, cut into thin strips
- 100 g broccoli, broken into florets
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 garlic clove, chopped
- Fresh coriander, to garnish
Shopping for the ingredients
To make fried wanton mee, you will want fresh ingredients, ideally sourced from an Asian grocery. Aim for fresh egg noodles, as these give the best flavour and the right springy texture. If you fancy making the wontons yourself, you can also pick up the appropriate wonton wrappers in specialist shops. Do not forget to choose crisp, fresh vegetables to enrich the dish both in taste and appearance.
Preparing the dish
Preparing fried wanton mee is straightforward and takes only a few steps. Begin by cooking the egg noodles according to the packet instructions, then drain them well. Prepare the wontons by filling them to taste — a mixture of minced meat and seasoning works beautifully. In the meantime, wash the vegetables and cut them into bite-sized pieces so everything cooks evenly.
Step-by-step instructions
- Heat the sesame oil in a large pan or a wok.
- Add the chopped garlic and stir-fry briefly until fragrant.
- Spread the cooked egg noodles across the pan and fry them for about 3–4 minutes.
- Add the sliced chicken and the vegetables, stir-frying everything together until the chicken is cooked through.
- Add the wontons and fry them for a few minutes too, until golden and crisp.
- Pour the soy sauce over the mixture and toss well to combine.
- Serve your fried wanton mee hot, garnished with fresh coriander.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
For a gluten-free version of fried wanton mee, use gluten-free egg noodles, which many supermarkets now stock. Be sure to choose a gluten-free soy sauce as well, so you keep the dish authentic. To make it lactose-free, simply avoid dairy products and reach for plant-based alternatives where needed. These adjustments mean everyone can enjoy the delicious flavours without worrying about their diet.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
Vegans and vegetarians can adapt fried wanton mee with ease by replacing the meat with tofu or vegetable-filled wontons. For extra depth of flavour, season the noodles with soy or teriyaki sauce. Use a colourful mix of vegetables such as peppers, courgettes or carrots to make the dish brighter and more nourishing. With these swaps, the recipe suits plant-based diets just as well — much like a comforting bowl of Claypot Tofu.
More tips and tricks
A few simple tips and tricks can lift the flavour of your fried wanton mee considerably. Add fresh herbs, for instance, to boost the aroma and bring a lovely splash of colour. Play with the seasoning by adding chilli or ginger if you like a spicier note. The cooking method matters just as much — the wontons should be crisp and the noodles perfectly al dente for the ideal eating experience.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Tweaking the recipe is a great way to bring your own preferences to the table. If you are a fan of fiery food, add chilli flakes or a hot sauce. You can also vary the choice of vegetables to make use of seasonal produce or to lighten the dish. Remember that the mix of ingredients shapes both the flavours and the textures, so do not be afraid to get creative.
Ingredient substitutions
If you do not have every ingredient to hand, there are plenty of alternatives to fall back on. In place of chicken, you could use pork or prawns, which are every bit as delicious. Instead of egg noodles, rice noodles or even courgette noodles work well to make the dish lighter. The key is to adjust the flavours and cooking times accordingly, so the meal always stays tasty. For a prawn-forward twist, take inspiration from Prawn Mee.
Drink pairing ideas
A range of drinks pairs nicely with a delicious fried wanton mee and rounds off the experience. A cool Asian beer such as Sapporo or Tsingtao offers a pleasant refreshment. For those who prefer not to drink alcohol, a green tea wonderfully complements the flavours of the dish. You might also consider fresh lemonade or an exotic fruit juice to freshen up the meal.
Serving and presentation ideas
The way you present your fried wanton mee can make a real difference to the meal. Serve it in a deep bowl to show off the colourful ingredients and to catch the sauce. Fresh coriander leaves or a scattering of sesame seeds not only add colour but also an extra layer of flavour. Choose tableware that reflects Singapore’s food culture to complete the look.
A bit of history
Fried wanton mee is rooted in the rich culinary tradition of Singapore and is a much-loved street-food option. The dish blends the influences of Cantonese cuisine with local ingredients, giving it its distinctive taste. Over the years it has evolved and is now offered in many variations across the island’s hawker centres. It sits at the heart of Singaporean eating culture and highlights the versatility of the city-state’s gastronomic scene.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Fried Wanton Mee
Fried wanton mee is a versatile and flavour-packed dish that adapts easily to different diets. It makes a superb quick dinner and brings a taste of Asian street-food culture straight into your kitchen. With its rich flavour, crunchy texture and harmony of colours, it is a treat not just for the palate but for the eyes too. Enjoy the cooking and the wonderful variety of flavours this dish has to offer!
