Mee Rebus

Mee Rebus is a beloved dish that hails from Southeast Asia, particularly Malaysia and Singapore. This rich and comforting noodle dish features a luscious, spicy, and slightly sweet gravy made from a blend of spices, sweet potatoes, and stocks. It’s the perfect meal to warm you up on a chilly day or to serve at gatherings with family and friends. The combination of flavors and textures, along with the array of toppings, makes Mee Rebus a delightful experience for your taste buds.

Why This Recipe Works

The magic of Mee Rebus lies in its complex yet harmonious flavors. By using a combination of sweet potatoes, spices, and both chicken and prawn stocks, this recipe achieves a depth of flavor that is both satisfying and comforting. The grounding notes of coriander, cumin, and fennel, paired with the sweetness from sweet potatoes and coconut milk, create a beautifully balanced dish. The variety of toppings adds extra layers of texture, making each bite interesting and delicious.

Ingredients at a Glance

• 1 pack yellow noodles, blanched
• 1 cup blanched beansprouts
• 8 dried red chillies, soaked to soften
• 1/2 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon fennel
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 10 shallots, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 inch (2 cm) ginger
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 350 grams sweet potatoes, skinned, steamed, and mashed
• 7 cups chicken stock
• 1 cup prawn stock
• 1 tablespoon tamarind concentrate
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• Salt, to taste
• Hard-boiled eggs, shelled and halved
• Fried beancurd, sliced
• Prawn fritters
• Fried shallots
• Limes
• Lettuce, shredded

Equipment Breakdown

• Large pot: For cooking the broth and combining ingredients.
• Blender or food processor: For pureeing the spice paste.
• Cooking spoon: For stirring and serving.
• Chopping board and knife: For preparing vegetables and toppings.

Directions: Mee Rebus

Step 1: Prepare the Spice Paste

Begin by draining the soaked red chillies and placing them in a blender along with the ginger, shallots, ground coriander, fennel, cumin, and turmeric. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste, adding a bit of water if necessary to help with blending.

Step 2: Cook the Broth

In a large pot, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Add the cinnamon stick and the spice paste from Step 1. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Add the Sweet Potatoes and Stocks

Stir in the mashed sweet potatoes, chicken stock, and prawn stock. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add in the tamarind concentrate and coconut milk, stirring well to combine. Season with salt to taste. Allow the broth to simmer for about 15-20 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare the Noodles

While the broth is simmering, prepare your yellow noodles according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

Step 5: Assemble the Mee Rebus

To serve, place a portion of the blanched noodles in a bowl. Ladle the hot gravy over the noodles generously.

Step 6: Add Toppings

Top the Mee Rebus with blanched beansprouts, halved hard-boiled eggs, sliced fried beancurd, prawn fritters, fried shallots, and a sprinkle of shredded lettuce. Serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the dish.

Variations by Season

• Spring: Add fresh herbs like mint or cilantro for a refreshing twist.
• Summer: Include seasonal vegetables such as cucumber or radishes for crunch.
• Fall: Incorporate roasted pumpkin or butternut squash for a heartier flavor.
• Winter: Serve with a side of warm, crusty bread for dipping.

Pro Tips & Notes

• For a spicier broth, add more red chillies or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Feel free to customize toppings based on your preferences—try adding crispy tofu or additional vegetables.
• If you prefer a thicker gravy, let the broth simmer for longer to reduce it.
• Always taste and adjust the seasoning towards the end of cooking for the best flavor.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

If you have leftovers, allow the Mee Rebus to cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, rewarm the broth on the stovetop and serve with freshly cooked noodles and toppings for the best experience.

Reader Q&A

Can I make Mee Rebus vegetarian?

Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken stock with vegetable stock and omit the prawn stock. Use tofu or other plant-based proteins as toppings.

How do I make the broth spicier?

To increase the heat level, add more dried red chillies to the spice paste or include fresh chillies. You can also sprinkle some chili flakes on top before serving.

Can I use different types of noodles?

Yes! While yellow noodles are traditional, you can use any type of noodles you prefer, such as rice noodles or even whole wheat noodles for a healthier option.

What can I serve with Mee Rebus?

Mee Rebus is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a side of fried spring rolls or a simple salad to complement the flavors.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Spicy Laksa Soup
• Coconut Curry Noodles
• Malaysian Nasi Lemak
• Vegetable Roti Canai

Final Bite

Mee Rebus is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors, textures, and traditions. The vibrant ingredients come together to create a comforting meal that warms both the heart and the belly. Whether you’re enjoying it on a rainy day or serving it at a family gathering, Mee Rebus is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, follow this recipe step-by-step, and indulge in a bowl of deliciousness that is sure to become a favorite in your home.