Name: Savory Char Kway Teow: Your New Go-To Comfort Dish!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 400 grams wide rice noodles (These are the star of the dish.); 300 grams prawns (Fresh or frozen peeled and deveined.); 3 cloves minced garlic (Infuses the dish with warmth.); 100 grams Chinese sausage (Adds a unique richness.); 100 grams bean sprouts (Provides crunch and freshness.); 100 grams fish cakes or fish balls (Adds seafood element.); 2 large large eggs (Lightly beaten.); 50 grams Chinese chives (Provides mild onion flavor.); 3 tablespoons light soy sauce (Base of your sauce.); 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce (Adds rich color.); 1 tablespoon sweet soy sauce or Kecap Manis (Brings sweetness.); 1 teaspoon fish sauce (Elevates flavor profile.)

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The sizzling sound of rice noodles hitting a hot wok is like music to my ears. There’s something truly mesmerizing about watching thin strands of noodles transform into a colorful medley, rich in flavor and texture. My journey to crafting the perfect Char Kway Teow started one rainy afternoon when I craved the flavors of street food but wanted to enjoy it at home.

This dish, brimming with fresh prawns, savory Chinese sausage, and crunchy bean sprouts, has a heartiness that feels indulgent yet comes together in just 25 minutes! Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply escape the monotony of take-out, this Char Kway Teow will transport you to a bustling hawker stall without leaving your kitchen. Grab your wok and let’s dive into this delightful stir-fry adventure that promises to tantalize your taste buds and brighten your dinner table!

Why is Char Kway Teow so beloved?

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.

Flavor Explosion: The rich, savory stir-fry sauce melds beautifully with fresh ingredients, creating a delicious experience that’s hard to resist.

Customizable Delight: Feel free to swap in your favorite proteins or veggies, making it a versatile dish for any palate.

Crowd-Pleasing: With its stunning presentation and diverse flavors, Char Kway Teow is guaranteed to impress your family and friends!

Satisfying Comfort: A bowl of this dish feels both indulgent and fulfilling, satisfying all your comfort food cravings.

If you love trying new dishes, check out my other favorite stir-fry recipes for even more cozy flavors!

Char Kway Teow Ingredients

• Dive into making this vibrant dish with simple yet flavorful components!

For the Noodles

Wide rice noodles – These are the star of the dish, providing a chewy texture that soaks up all the delicious flavors.

For the Stir-Fry

Prawns – Fresh or frozen peeled and deveined prawns add a delightful seafood taste that pairs well with the noodles.
Minced garlic – This aromatic ingredient infuses the dish with warmth and depth.
Chinese sausage – Savory and slightly sweet, it adds a unique richness; you can substitute with any similar sausage if needed.
Bean sprouts – These add a lovely crunch and freshness to the dish.
Fish cakes or fish balls – These offer an additional seafood element and delightful texture.
Large eggs – Lightly beaten, eggs bring a creamy richness that binds all the ingredients together.
Chinese chives – These provide a mild onion flavor and vibrant color, enhancing the dish’s appeal.

For the Stir Fry Sauce

Light soy sauce – This is the base of your sauce, giving a savory foundation to your Char Kway Teow.
Dark soy sauce – It adds a rich color and deeper umami flavor to the dish.
Sweet soy sauce or Kecap Manis – This brings a touch of sweetness that balances the savory elements perfectly.
Fish sauce – Just a hint of it elevates the overall flavor profile, making your dish taste authentically delicious!

How to Make Char Kway Teow

Warm Noodles: Microwaving the wide rice noodles for 1 minute will make them easier to separate. Use your hands to gently pull them apart and set them aside.
Mix Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine all the stir-fry sauce ingredients. This blend will provide the rich flavor foundation you need for your Char Kway Teow.
Cook Sausage: Heat ½ tablespoon of oil in a large wok over low heat. Add the sliced Chinese sausage and cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the fat to render. Transfer the sausage to a plate but leave the grease in the wok.
Stir-Fry Prawns: Increase the heat; add 1 tablespoon of oil until it’s just smoking. Toss in the prawns and cook for 50 seconds, then add the minced garlic and stir for 10 seconds, releasing wonderful aromas.
Add Veggies: Toss in the bean sprouts, stirring for about 30 seconds. Then, add the warm noodles and gently toss together for 25 seconds, ensuring they mix with the other ingredients.
Add Sauce & Fish Cakes: Pour the prepared stir-fry sauce over the mixture and toss it all for 1 minute. Then, add the fish cakes and mix for another 10 seconds to incorporate.
Cook Eggs: Push the noodle mixture to the side of the wok. Pour in 1 tablespoon of oil and add the beaten eggs. Leave undisturbed for about 10 seconds to let them start cooking.
Combine Mixtures: Flip the noodle mixture over the cooked eggs. Let it sit undisturbed for 45 seconds so the eggs can bind everything together.
Char the Noodles: Carefully toss the noodle mixture for 10 seconds, then let it cook undisturbed for 15-20 seconds. Repeat this process for about 2-4 minutes until the noodles have a beautiful charred look. Be gentle, as you scrape up any burnt bits.
Add Chives & Sausage: Finally, toss in the Chinese chives and the previously cooked Chinese sausage. Stir-fry together for another 50 seconds until everything is well combined and fragrant.
Serve & Enjoy: Remove the wok from heat and serve your delightful Char Kway Teow hot. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Optional: Garnish with extra chives for vibrant color and fresh flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Char Kway Teow

Prep Your Noodles: Ensure the wide rice noodles are separated before cooking to prevent clumping during stir-fry.

High Heat is Key: Always cook your ingredients on high heat to achieve that signature charred texture without overcooking.

Don’t Rush the Eggs: Allow the eggs to set undisturbed for a few moments to create a creamy base for your Char Kway Teow; flipping too soon can result in scrambled bits.

Watch the Oil: Using enough oil is crucial for a non-stick experience; however, avoid excess oil to keep your dish from becoming too greasy.

Scrape and Toss: Gently scrape up burnt bits during cooking to enhance flavor without letting them linger and burn; this adds depth to your dish!

Feel confident in your cooking adventure, and enjoy every bite of this delicious Char Kway Teow!

Make Ahead Options

These Char Kway Teow ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the stir-fry sauce up to 3 days in advance; simply combine all the sauce ingredients and refrigerate in an airtight container. Additionally, chop the garlic, slice the Chinese sausage, and cut the chives in advance, storing them separately in the fridge. The prawns can be peeled and deveined ahead of time, too, so you can save about 10-15 minutes when you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to serve, just follow the cooking steps, and you’ll have all the delicious flavors just as vibrant and comforting, making your busy weeknights a breeze!

Char Kway Teow Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe and make it your own in delicious ways!

Vegetarian: Swap prawns and fish cakes for tofu and additional veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for a satisfying plant-based dish.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free soy sauce and rice noodles for a safe alternative without losing flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of chili paste or sliced fresh chilies during stir-frying to spice things up and energize your taste buds!
Fried Rice Twist: Substitute wide noodles with pre-cooked rice for a comforting fried rice version that still captures the essence of Char Kway Teow.
Herb Boost: Sprinkle in some fresh cilantro or Thai basil at the end for an aromatic touch that elevates every bite!
Seafood Medley: Use a combination of shrimp, mussels, and squid to introduce a delightful mix of textures and tastes that’ll transport you to the seaside.
Sausage Alternatives: Try using chorizo or spicy Italian sausage for a unique flavor profile that tantalizes your taste buds in a different direction.
Crunch Factor: Top your dish with crushed peanuts or fried shallots for an irresistible crunchy finish that adds amazing texture.

Take your time to explore these variations and enjoy crafting your perfect bowl of Char Kway Teow!

What to Serve with Char Kway Teow?

A meal isn’t complete without the perfect companions to elevate your Char Kway Teow experience.

Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy delights offer a lighter texture and fresh flavors, making them a fantastic appetizer to start your meal off right.
Asian Slaw: A zesty combination of cabbages and sesame dressing will add a refreshing crunch and a burst of color to your table!
Sweet and Sour Pineapple Salad: The sweetness of pineapple paired with tangy dressing creates a tropical vibe that beautifully contrasts the savory noodles. This is a must-try!
Wonton Soup: Light and comforting, this soup serves as a subtle craving satisfier and warms your soul alongside your flavorful stir-fry.
Chili Oil: Drizzling some chili oil over your Char Kway Teow brings an extra kick, enhancing the rich flavors with a spicy twist that’s hard to resist.
Green Tea: This soothing beverage balances the meal wonderfully, cleansing the palate between bites with its gentle, earthy notes.
Mango Pudding: End on a sweet note with a creamy, tropical mango pudding that adds a luscious finish to your dining affair.

By serving these delightful dishes alongside your Char Kway Teow, you’ll create a feast that promises satisfaction and joy!

How to Store and Freeze Char Kway Teow

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water to maintain moisture.

Freezer: You can freeze Char Kway Teow for up to 2 months. Cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, reheat in a wok over medium heat. Add a bit of oil and toss until heated through, approximately 5-7 minutes.

Char Kway Teow Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best prawns for Char Kway Teow?
Absolutely! When selecting prawns, look for firm, bright-colored ones that smell fresh and have a clean scent, avoiding any that have dark spots or a fishy odor. Frozen prawns can work well too; just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.

How should I store leftover Char Kway Teow?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing to help preserve its flavor and freshness. For reheating, a quick toss in a pan with a splash of water over medium heat will revive its deliciousness.

Can I freeze Char Kway Teow?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, let the dish cool completely. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, removing as much air as possible. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in a wok with a bit of oil, tossing until heated through, which should take around 5-7 minutes.

What should I do if my noodles stick together while cooking?
This can happen sometimes, but don’t worry! If your noodles clump, try rinsing them under cool water and gently separating them with your fingers before adding them to the wok. Another tip is to ensure your wok is hot enough when you add the noodles; the high heat will help keep them separated while cooking.

Is Char Kway Teow suitable for people with allergies?
Absolutely! While traditional Char Kway Teow contains shellfish, sausage, and fish sauce, feel free to modify it based on dietary needs. For those allergic to shellfish, you can replace prawns with chicken or tofu. Always check the labels of your sauces for allergens and choose gluten-free options if necessary.

How can I enhance the charred flavor of my Char Kway Teow?
To achieve that signature char, it’s important to cook everything over high heat. After adding the noodles, let them sit undisturbed for a few moments to develop that charred texture. Scraping the bottom of the wok gently during cooking will incorporate the delicious burnt bits back into the dish without ruining it!