Singapore Char Kway Teow: A Culinary Icon

A Report by CYS Global Remit Office Facilities Management Unit

Introduction 

Singapore Char Kway Teow is celebrated as one of our island's most beloved hawker dishes, embodying the rich street food culture of Southeast Asia. This iconic stir-fried noodle dish features a harmonious blend of flat rice noodles and yellow wheat noodles, skilfully wok-fried over high heat with eggs, Chinese sausage, fish cake, bean sprouts, and cockles.

The Art of Wok Hei 

What truly elevates Char Kway Teow is the coveted 'wok hei'—the smoky aroma resulting from expert frying in a well-seasoned wok at intense temperatures. Achieving this elusive flavour requires years of practice, intuition, and mastery of timing and technique.

From Humble Origins to National Treasure 

Originally created by the Teochew and Hokkien communities as affordable sustenance for working-class laborers, Char Kway Teow has evolved into a national culinary treasure. Despite its elevated status, it remains accessible across Singapore’s vibrant hawker centres, with each stall offering its own unique interpretation.

Perfect Balance of Flavours and Textures 

The brilliance of Char Kway Teow lies in its balanced combination of contrasting elements:

• Noodles: Soft yet slightly chewy, providing the perfect foundation 

• Chinese sausage: Adds sweetness and savoury depth 

• Cockles: Impart briny, oceanic freshness 

• Bean sprouts: Contribute essential crunch and freshness 

• Dark soy sauce: Provides colour and umami complexity 

• Chilli paste: Infuses fiery heat for spice enthusiasts

  
  

Modern variations often incorporate prawns or crispy pork lard, adding layers of indulgence while honouring traditional cooking methods.

Cultural Significance 

Beyond its status as street food, Char Kway Teow serves as a symbol of Singapore’s multicultural heritage and communal dining culture. It connects generations, fostering a sense of identity and shared experience at hawker centres across the island.

CYS Global Remit: Food Brings Us Together 

At CYS Global Remit, sharing homemade Char Kway Teow is more than a meal—it is a celebration of flavor and camaraderie. The aroma of the sizzling wok, the laughter around the table, and the shared enjoyment of this culinary delight foster a positive workplace environment. It exemplifies how food brings us together, transforming colleagues into a community grounded in respect and a love for exceptional cuisine.