Singapore’s hawker centers are a food lover’s paradise. Whether you’re craving bold flavours, local comfort food, or global street eats, there’s something sizzling on every corner. But amidst all the fragrant char kway teow and buttery prata, can you actually eat healthy at a hawker centre?
The answer: absolutely yes. While hawker fare is often seen as indulgent, there are plenty of healthier options if you know what to look for. Here are 10 healthy foods you can enjoy without the guilt the next time you hit up your favourite hawker haunt.
1. Thunder Tea Rice (Lei Cha Fan)
A Hakka dish that’s as nutritious as it is unique. Thunder Tea Rice is a bowl of brown or white rice topped with a mix of vegetables, tofu, nuts, and served with a green herbal tea broth. High in fibre, antioxidants, and plant-based protein, this is a solid option for vegetarians and clean eaters alike.
2. Yong Tau Foo
Customisable and broth-based, Yong Tau Foo lets you choose your ingredients—like tofu, mushrooms, fish paste-stuffed veggies, and leafy greens—before they’re served in a light soup. Skip the fried items and go easy on the sweet sauce to keep it wholesome.
3. Sliced Fish Soup
Clear, comforting, and packed with omega-3s, sliced fish soup is one of the leanest hawker dishes around. Choose options with more vegetables, and add brown rice or bee hoon for a balanced meal. Avoid the evaporated milk version if you’re watching your fat intake.
4. Chap Chye Png (Economic Rice – the healthy way)
This popular “economic rice” dish can be healthy if you make smart picks. Go for brown rice and load up on stir-fried or steamed vegetables, tofu, and lean meats like steamed fish or chicken. Avoid deep-fried and heavily sauced items.
5. Chwee Kueh (in moderation)
These steamed rice cakes topped with preserved radish (chai poh) are low in fat and portion-controlled. While the chai poh can be salty and oily, asking for “less oil” makes this a relatively light breakfast or snack option.
6. Popiah
This fresh spring roll is a healthier snack alternative. Filled with julienned veggies, tofu, and sometimes shrimp, wrapped in a thin crepe, Popiah is high in fibre and relatively low in calories. Just be mindful of the sweet sauce and garlic for sodium control.
7. Teochew Porridge
A simple meal made up of watery rice porridge and side dishes like steamed fish, preserved vegetables, and tofu. Choose plain porridge over sweet potato porridge for lower sugar content, and avoid overly salty or oily sides.
8. Idli and Thosai (South Indian fare)
Both are made from fermented rice and lentil batter, making them gut-friendly and low in fat. Idlis are steamed, while thosai is lightly pan-fried. Pair with sambar (lentil curry) instead of coconut chutney for a higher-fibre, lower-fat meal.
9. Grilled Chicken or Fish from Malay Stalls
Malay food is often rich, but there are lighter gems to be found. Try grilled (panggang) chicken or fish with brown rice or a smaller portion of nasi lemak rice, and pair it with achar (pickled veggies) for a fibre boost.
10. Fruit Juices (No sugar added)
While sugar-laden drinks abound, you can still find fresh juices with no added sugar. Ask for “no sugar” (no syrup) versions of juices like lime, watermelon, or carrot. Or opt for fresh coconut water for a naturally hydrating and mineral-rich option.
Tips for Eating Healthier at Hawker Centres:
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Ask for “less oil,” “less salt,” or “no sauce”—most stall owners are happy to accommodate.
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Swap white rice for brown rice where available.
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Skip the fried stuff and choose grilled, steamed, or soupy options.
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Watch portion sizes, especially with carbs and sauces.
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Stay hydrated, but opt for water or no-sugar drinks.
Final Thoughts
Healthy eating doesn’t mean giving up your favourite local dishes—it’s all about balance and smart choices. Singapore’s hawker centres offer a rich variety of foods that can absolutely fit into a healthy lifestyle. So go ahead—enjoy the flavours, support your local hawkers, and nourish your body at the same time!
Got a favourite healthy hawker dish we missed? Share it in the comments—we’d love to hear what’s on your plate!
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[Sugar Alternatives / Artificial Sweeteners: Should you avoid them?]
Akanksha Sharma
Dr. Akanksha Sharma, Head Writer and creator of AtoZ of Pregnancy, is dedicated to empowering women, parents, and families through 360-degree knowledge. She and her team provide evidence-based advice to guide families through pregnancy, parenting and beyond.
