Xing Zhou Bee Hoon: A Flavorful Singaporean Fried Rice Vermicelli Dish

Xing Zhou Bee Hoon is a beloved Singaporean stir-fried rice vermicelli dish that is packed with flavor, featuring a combination of thin bee hoon (rice noodles), seafood, vegetables, and a savory sauce. Known for its light yet fragrant taste, this dish is a popular choice in zi char (煮炒) stalls across Singapore and Malaysia.

Unlike its well-known counterpart, Singapore Fried Bee Hoon, Xing Zhou Bee Hoon has a wetter, more flavorful sauce that coats the noodles beautifully. Whether you enjoy it with prawns, squid, or slices of meat, this dish is a satisfying meal that embodies the rich culinary heritage of Southeast Asia.

What is Xing Zhou Bee Hoon?

Xing Zhou Bee Hoon, also called Singapore-style fried rice vermicelli, is a dish made by stir-frying thin rice noodles (bee hoon) with a mix of seafood, eggs, vegetables, and a savory sauce. Unlike dry stir-fried noodles, it has a slight gravy that keeps the noodles moist and flavorful.

The name “Xing Zhou” (星洲) means Singapore in Chinese, signifying that this dish has local origins, despite the influence of Chinese wok-fried noodle dishes. It is often cooked with fresh seafood, chicken, or pork, making it a delicious and hearty option for noodle lovers.

Key Ingredients in Xing Zhou Bee Hoon

A well-made plate of Xing Zhou Bee Hoon is all about fresh ingredients and a balanced sauce. The key components include:

Bee Hoon (Rice Vermicelli) – Thin rice noodles that absorb the flavors of the sauce.
Seafood (Prawns, Squid, Fish Slices) – Adds sweetness and a fresh ocean taste.
Eggs – Provides richness and texture.
Vegetables (Bean Sprouts, Cabbage, Carrots, Chives) – Adds crunch and color.
Garlic and Shallots – Enhances the aroma and depth of flavor.
Sauce (Soy Sauce, Oyster Sauce, Fish Sauce, Stock) – Creates the signature savory, umami taste.
White Pepper and Shaoxing Wine – Brings warmth and fragrance to the dish.

Some variations also include char siew (roast pork) or chicken slices for additional flavor.

How is Xing Zhou Bee Hoon Cooked?

Cooking Xing Zhou Bee Hoon requires high heat and quick stir-frying to achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Here’s how it is traditionally prepared:

Soak the bee hoon in warm water until softened, then drain well.
Heat oil in a wok and fry chopped garlic and shallots until fragrant.
Add seafood, chicken, or pork slices and stir-fry until partially cooked.
Crack an egg into the wok and scramble it before mixing in the other ingredients.
Toss in the softened bee hoon and stir well to combine with the proteins.
Pour in a sauce mixture made of soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and chicken stock.
Stir-fry on high heat, allowing the noodles to absorb the sauce while maintaining a slightly moist consistency.
Add vegetables and season with white pepper and Shaoxing wine before giving it a final toss.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives and a side of sambal chili for extra spice.

Xing Zhou Bee Hoon vs. Other Bee Hoon Dishes

There are several variations of bee hoon dishes in Singapore, but Xing Zhou Bee Hoon has its own unique characteristics:

Xing Zhou Bee Hoon – Stir-fried rice vermicelli with a slightly wet texture and seafood-based sauce.
Singapore Fried Bee Hoon – A dry stir-fried version, usually made with curry powder and yellow noodles.
Hokkien Mee – A mix of yellow noodles and bee hoon, cooked in a rich prawn broth with eggs.
White Bee Hoon – A lighter, soupier dish with seafood and vegetables in a clear broth.

Why is Xing Zhou Bee Hoon So Popular?

Xing Zhou Bee Hoon is a crowd favorite because it is:

Flavorful yet light – The sauce keeps the noodles moist without being too heavy.
Versatile – Can be made with different proteins such as seafood, chicken, or pork.
Easy to prepare – Quick to cook at home with simple ingredients.
Great for sharing – A perfect dish for family meals or gatherings.

How to Enjoy Xing Zhou Bee Hoon

Xing Zhou Bee Hoon is best enjoyed with:

A side of sambal chili for extra spice.
A squeeze of lime or calamansi to add a tangy kick.
A cup of Chinese tea to balance the flavors.

Health Benefits of Xing Zhou Bee Hoon

Despite being a comforting dish, Xing Zhou Bee Hoon has some nutritional benefits:

High in protein – Due to the seafood and egg content.
Rich in fiber – Vegetables like cabbage and bean sprouts provide fiber.
Lower in fat – Compared to deep-fried noodles, stir-fried bee hoon is a lighter option.

To make it even healthier, you can use less oil, lean proteins, and extra vegetables.

Conclusion

Xing Zhou Bee Hoon is a delicious and satisfying dish that represents Singaporean wok-fried noodle culture at its best. With its aromatic sauce, tender seafood, and springy noodles, this dish offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Whether you enjoy it at a hawker stall or cook it at home, Xing Zhou Bee Hoon is a must-try dish for anyone who loves fragrant, umami-rich Asian cuisine.