Perhaps the most interesting aspect of Singapore style fried rice noodles (sing chow mai fun) is that although they can be found in nearly every Cantonese-style Chinese eatery in Hong Kong (as well as the U.S., Canada, England, and Australia), the dish is, for the most part, not recognized in the Southeast Asian city-state of Singapore itself.
Called mifen in Chinese, rice vermicelli (or rice noodles) are plain noodles made from rice flour and water. Their simple yet satisfying taste makes them a perfect entryway for Chinese noodles newbies, especially in the form of Singapore style fried rice vermicelli noodles -- a highly gratifying and affordable dish that will most likely require a to-go box.
Served up vegetarian-style or with meat choices like chicken, beef, or shrimp, this dish features a nest of stir-fried rice vermicelli (seasoned with curry powder for a mild heat), along with goodies like bean sprouts, Chinese cabbage, soy sauce, and peppers.
Found in many Chinese restaurants across the Valley, I scored this one for $7.52 at Asian Café Express, the ridiculously tasty and cheap authentic Hong Kong-style restaurant in Mesa. With enough to share and (unless otherwise requested) served with chicken and shrimp, it's a simple and wonderfully pleasing dish thanks to those tasty stir-fried rice vermicelli noodles with the bean sprouts and peppers lending a nice, crunchy texture.
Want a bit more of kick? Top it off with some fiery chili paste.
