National Dish Singapore: Seafood Hor Fun (Recipe)
In this article
Discover Seafood Hor Fun, one of Singapore’s best-loved noodle dishes! Silky rice noodles are bathed in a glossy, savoury sauce and studded with fresh prawns and tender squid. The contrast between the smooth noodles and the deep, umami-rich gravy makes this a favourite among fans of Asian cooking — a feast for the eyes as much as the palate. Bring the buzz of a Singapore hawker centre straight to your own kitchen.
About Seafood Hor Fun
Seafood Hor Fun is a much-loved dish from Singapore that delights locals and visitors alike. Tender rice noodles are served in a delicious, savoury sauce enriched with an assortment of fresh seafood. The combination of silky texture and bold flavour makes this a firm favourite for anyone who enjoys Asian cuisine. It is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a genuine feast for the eyes, plated up beautifully at hawker stalls across the island.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 200 g flat rice noodles
- 150 g prawns, peeled
- 100 g squid, cut into rings
- 1 egg
- 2 cups vegetable stock
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Fresh coriander, to garnish
- Optional: fresh vegetables such as pak choi or carrots
Shopping for the ingredients
To make Seafood Hor Fun, it is worth choosing the freshest ingredients you can to get the very best flavour. The rice noodles are easy to find in Asian grocers or the international aisle of most supermarkets. When buying the seafood, look for prawns and squid that are fresh and of good quality, as they are key to an outstanding result. Pay special attention to the stock, too, since it forms the base of the sauce and shapes the overall taste of the dish.
Preparing the dish
Before you start cooking, take a little time to prepare everything carefully. Cut the vegetables into even pieces so they soften uniformly as they cook. The rice noodles can be prepared according to the packet instructions — usually they need to be soaked in hot water until soft and pliable. This groundwork keeps the cooking process smooth and lets you enjoy the finished dish in next to no time.
Step-by-step instructions
- Heat a wok or large pan over medium heat and add a little sesame oil.
- Add the prawns and squid and stir-fry for around 2–3 minutes, until just cooked through.
- Push the seafood to the side of the pan and crack the egg into the centre, stirring well until it sets.
- Add the pre-soaked rice noodles and the vegetables to the pan and toss everything together.
- Pour in the vegetable stock and soy sauce, then let it bubble for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Serve the Seafood Hor Fun hot, garnished with fresh coriander.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
For a gluten-free version of Seafood Hor Fun, simply use gluten-free soy sauce. The rice noodles are usually naturally gluten-free too, though it is always worth checking the packet. No special adjustments are needed for a lactose-free meal, as the recipe contains no dairy at all. That way the dish stays both delicious and easy to enjoy for anyone with allergies or intolerances.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
To make Seafood Hor Fun vegan or vegetarian, swap the seafood for tofu or seitan. These protein sources suit the dish perfectly and add a hearty, satisfying texture. The egg can be left out altogether or replaced with a plant-based egg alternative. Finish with a generous variety of vegetables to bring both colour and extra nutrients to the plate.
More tips and tricks
A few simple pointers make preparing Seafood Hor Fun far easier. Have all your ingredients ready before you begin, so the cooking moves quickly. Use a high heat to give the dish that signature smoky “wok hei” flavour so prized in stir-frying. Experiment with different vegetables and punchy sauces to give the dish a personal touch of your own.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Seafood Hor Fun is an exceptionally flexible dish. Depending on your preference, you can vary the type of seafood or swap the soy sauce for teriyaki sauce to lend a sweeter note. Spices such as chillies or fresh ginger can also be added for a bit more heat and aroma. Your own taste plays a big part in the preparation — and that is exactly what makes the cooking so enjoyable.
Ingredient substitutions
If certain ingredients are hard to come by, alternatives are easy to work in. In place of prawns you could use other shellfish or even chicken, much like the poultry that stars in Lemongrass Chicken. The vegetables can be updated to whatever is in season, such as broccoli or peppers. Experiment with different sauces, from a fiery chilli sauce to a sweet oyster sauce, to create new flavour experiences.
Drink pairing ideas
Several drinks pair beautifully with Seafood Hor Fun. A cool, light Asian lager sits wonderfully alongside the flavours of the dish. Alternatively, a refreshing green tea or an Asian soft drink works well too. Cocktails such as a classic mojito or a fruity caipirinha can also be perfect companions, rounding off the whole culinary experience.
Serving and presentation ideas
Presentation matters with a dish like Seafood Hor Fun, and it lifts the eating experience no end. Serve it in shallow bowls that show off the colourful ingredients. Garnished with fresh coriander and perhaps a wedge of lime, the dish looks as inviting as it smells. With vibrant, hearty ingredients you can turn out a genuine masterpiece on your table.
A bit of history
Seafood Hor Fun has its roots in the wonderfully varied cooking of the region and is especially popular in Singapore. It is often served as street food and stands as a symbol of the area’s culinary diversity. Its origins lie in the mingling of influences from many different cultures over the years. This history makes the dish not only delicious but also a window into the rich food traditions of Singaporean cuisine.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Seafood Hor Fun
Seafood Hor Fun is a delicious, versatile dish that brings together the flavours and textures of Asian cooking. Whether for a quick meal or as the highlight of a special occasion, it is sure to impress your guests. With fresh seafood and a rich, glossy sauce, it is the perfect way to dive into the culinary traditions of Singapore. Let it inspire you, and savour the variety of flavour and colour this dish has to offer.
