Char Kway Teow Smoky Noodles

Name: Char Kway Teow Smoky Noodles
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: Serves 2
Ingredients: 200g flat rice noodles; 100g shrimp, peeled and deveined; 50g Chinese sausage, sliced; 100g bean sprouts; 2 eggs; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon chili paste; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; Chives for garnish

Highlighted under: International Flavor Recipes

Savor the rich, smoky flavors of Char Kway Teow, a beloved stir-fried noodle dish from Malaysia, featuring shrimp, Chinese sausage, and bean sprouts.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-24T22:43:28.166Z

This Char Kway Teow recipe brings the vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia right to your kitchen. With its smoky aroma and delightful texture, it's a dish that will impress your family and friends.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich smoky flavor that tantalizes your taste buds
Quick and easy to prepare for any weeknight dinner
A perfect balance of textures with chewy noodles and crisp vegetables

      

A Flavorful Journey to Malaysia

Char Kway Teow, a classic Malaysian dish, offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that can transport your taste buds straight to the bustling streets of Penang. This stir-fried noodle dish is not just a meal; it's a culinary experience that showcases the rich heritage of Malaysian cuisine. With its smoky aroma and vibrant ingredients, every bite of Char Kway Teow tells a story of tradition and innovation.

The heart of Char Kway Teow lies in its preparation. The dish is traditionally cooked in a hot wok, which imparts a characteristic charred flavor that enhances the overall taste. The combination of flat rice noodles, succulent shrimp, and savory Chinese sausage creates a symphony of flavors that is both satisfying and invigorating. Whether enjoyed as a street food staple or a homemade favorite, Char Kway Teow is sure to please.

Quick and Easy Cooking

One of the best aspects of Char Kway Teow is its simplicity in preparation. With just a handful of ingredients and a few easy steps, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time. This makes it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners when you want something hearty yet quick to prepare. The entire cooking process takes under 30 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy families.

The versatility of Char Kway Teow also allows for creative adaptations. While the traditional recipe calls for shrimp and Chinese sausage, feel free to customize the dish with your favorite proteins or vegetables. Whether you prefer chicken, tofu, or an extra serving of veggies, this dish can easily accommodate your preferences. Enjoy the freedom to make it your own while still savoring its authentic flavors.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Char Kway Teow is best enjoyed hot and fresh from the wok, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and beverages. For a light and refreshing accompaniment, consider serving it with a simple cucumber salad drizzled with lime juice. The crunch of the cucumbers complements the chewy noodles, while the acidity brightens the overall meal.

To enhance your dining experience, pair Char Kway Teow with a chilled glass of jasmine tea or a fruity cocktail. These beverages not only refresh the palate but also elevate the dish's flavors, making your meal memorable. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual night in, this dish and its pairings are sure to impress.

Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before you begin cooking to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Main Ingredients

200g flat rice noodles
100g shrimp, peeled and deveined
50g Chinese sausage, sliced
100g bean sprouts
2 eggs
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon chili paste
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Chives for garnish

Make sure to adjust the ingredients based on your taste preferences.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to create the perfect Char Kway Teow.

Prepare the Noodles

Soak the flat rice noodles in hot water for about 5 minutes until softened. Drain and set aside.

Stir-Fry Ingredients

Heat the vegetable oil in a wok over high heat. Add minced garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add Proteins

Add the sliced Chinese sausage and shrimp to the wok, cooking until the shrimp turns pink.

Scramble Eggs

Push the ingredients to one side of the wok and crack the eggs into the empty space. Scramble until just set.

Combine Noodles and Sauces

Add the softened noodles, soy sauce, chili paste, and oyster sauce. Toss everything together for 2-3 minutes until well combined.

Finish with Bean Sprouts

Stir in the bean sprouts and cook for an additional minute. Remove from heat and garnish with chives.

Enjoy your homemade Char Kway Teow while hot, paired with your favorite beverage.

Tips for Perfecting Char Kway Teow

To achieve the best texture for your noodles, make sure not to over-soak them before cooking. They should be soft but firm enough to hold their shape during stir-frying. A quick soak in hot water is sufficient, and draining them well will prevent excess moisture that can lead to a soggy dish.

Using a high-quality wok is essential for creating that signature smoky flavor. If you're using a non-stick pan, be sure to preheat it adequately to mimic the intense heat of a traditional wok. The right cooking surface can make a significant difference in the final outcome of your Char Kway Teow.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To keep your noodles from becoming too dry, add a splash of water before reheating. The moisture will help revive the dish and maintain its flavor and texture.

When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them in a hot wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Stir-frying them quickly will help restore their original taste and ensure that you can savor the delightful flavors of Char Kway Teow all over again.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other proteins?

Yes, you can substitute shrimp with chicken, beef, or tofu based on your preference.

→ What if I can't find flat rice noodles?

You can use egg noodles or any other type of noodle, but the texture may vary.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure the noodles are gluten-free.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just omit the shrimp and Chinese sausage and add extra vegetables.