The Picking Strategy
Don't just grab everything. A pro move is to balance the 'liao' (ingredients). Get some stuffed bitter gourd for bite, ladyfingers for texture, and at least two types of tofu. Most items are stuffed with a savoury fish or pork paste. If the stall offers a fried section, grab the crispy bean curd skin last so it stays crunchy.
Soup or Dry
The classic choice is a clear, light soybean and anchovy broth. It is clean and comforting. If you go for the dry version, your items will be tossed in a mix of sweet bean sauce and spicy chili. Some stalls even offer a laksa gravy or curry base if you are feeling like a heavy lunch.
Quick answers
- Is it a healthy hawker option?
- It can be. Stick to the boiled vegetables and tofu in clear soup. If you start adding fried items and laksa gravy, the calorie count goes up fast.
- What noodles should I get?
- Bee hoon (rice vermicelli) is the standard for soup, while yellow noodles or kway teow work well for the dry version.