Mee Rebus

Mee Rebus is a beloved Malaysian noodle dish that delivers a delightful blend of flavors and textures in every bowl. With its rich, savory broth and a medley of toppings, this dish is not only comforting but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Mee Rebus is sure to please your palate and warm your heart.

What Makes This Recipe Special

What sets this Mee Rebus apart is its complex, aromatic broth that is both hearty and flavorful. The combination of spices, sweet potatoes, and stocks creates a rich base that pairs beautifully with the yellow noodles. The toppings of fried beancurd, hard-boiled eggs, and fried shallots add an extra layer of texture and taste, making each bite an experience of its own. This recipe not only nourishes the body but also celebrates the vibrant culinary heritage of Malaysia.

What You’ll Gather

• 1 pack yellow noodles – These are the backbone of the dish, providing that chewy texture.
• Blanched beansprouts – For a crunchy, fresh element.
• 8 dried red chillies – Soaked to soften, these bring a hint of heat.
• 1/2 tablespoon ground coriander – Adds a warm, earthy flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon fennel – A subtle sweet note.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin – Enhances the depth of the broth.
• 10 shallots, chopped – For sweetness and aromatic goodness.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric – Provides a vibrant color and earthy flavor.
• 1 inch (2 cm) ginger – Freshness and warmth.
• 1 tablespoon cooking oil – For sautéing the aromatics.
• 1 cinnamon stick – A fragrant touch.
• 350 grams sweet potatoes, skinned, steamed and mashed – For a natural sweetness and creamy texture.
• 7 cups chicken stock – The foundation of the broth.
• 1 cup prawn stock – Adds depth (use a vegetable stock if preferred).
• 1 tablespoon tamarind concentrate – For a tangy kick.
• 1/2 cup coconut milk – Creaminess that balances the flavors.
• Salt, to taste – Essential for seasoning.
• Hard-boiled eggs, shelled and halved – A classic topping.
• Fried beancurd, sliced – For a crispy texture.
• Prawn fritters – Optional, but they add a delightful crunch.
• Fried shallots – For garnishing and extra flavor.
• Limes – To squeeze over the top for freshness.
• Lettuce, shredded – For a crisp, refreshing bite.

Gear Up: What to Grab

• Large pot – For boiling the noodles and making the broth.
• Frying pan – For sautéing shallots and spices.
• Blender or food processor – To blend the spices into a smooth paste.
• Strainer – For draining the noodles and beansprouts.
• Serving bowls – To present your beautiful Mee Rebus.

Mee Rebus — Do This Next

Step 1: Prepare the Noodles

Start by cooking the yellow noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a frying pan, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Add the chopped shallots, ginger, and soaked dried red chillies. Sauté until the shallots are translucent and fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Spices

Stir in the ground coriander, fennel, cumin, and turmeric. Sauté for an additional minute, allowing the spices to bloom and release their aromas.

Step 4: Create the Broth

In a large pot, combine the chicken stock, prawn stock, mashed sweet potatoes, tamarind concentrate, and the sautéed spice mixture. Add the cinnamon stick and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Incorporate Coconut Milk

After simmering for about 15 minutes, stir in the coconut milk. Let the broth simmer for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Add salt to taste.

Step 6: Assemble Your Mee Rebus

To serve, place a generous portion of the cooked yellow noodles in a bowl. Ladle the rich broth over the noodles, ensuring each bowl gets a good amount of the sweet potato mixture.

Step 7: Add the Toppings

Top each bowl with blanched beansprouts, hard-boiled egg halves, fried beancurd slices, prawn fritters if using, and a sprinkle of fried shallots. Garnish with shredded lettuce and lime wedges on the side.

Make It Fit Your Plan

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken and prawn stock with vegetable stock and omit the prawns and eggs.
• Spice Level: Adjust the number of dried red chillies based on your heat preference.
• Prep Ahead: Make the broth in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free noodles to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

• Broth Too Thick: If your broth is thicker than desired, simply add more stock or water until you reach your preferred consistency.
• Too Spicy: If the dish turns out too spicy, balance it out with a little more coconut milk or sweet potato.
• Flavor Lacking: If you find the flavor isn’t as robust as you’d like, consider adding more salt or additional tamarind concentrate for tanginess.
• Overcooked Noodles: Ensure you check the noodles frequently while cooking to avoid mushiness; aim for al dente.

Storing Tips & Timelines

Mee Rebus is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or stock to revive the broth. The noodles may absorb some broth during storage, so don’t hesitate to add more liquid while reheating.

Mee Rebus FAQs

Can I freeze Mee Rebus?

While the broth can be frozen, the noodles and toppings do not freeze well. It’s best to freeze only the broth and prepare fresh noodles when ready to serve.

What can I substitute for sweet potatoes?

If you prefer, you can substitute sweet potatoes with regular potatoes or even pumpkin for a slightly different flavor profile.

How can I make Mee Rebus vegan?

To make it vegan, use vegetable stock, omit the eggs and prawn fritters, and ensure that the beancurd used is also vegan-friendly.

What’s the best way to serve Mee Rebus?

Mee Rebus is best served piping hot, with all the toppings arranged beautifully on top. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish just before eating for a burst of brightness.

Final Thoughts

Creating a bowl of Mee Rebus is more than just a cooking process; it’s an invitation to experience the rich tapestry of Malaysian cuisine. With its harmonious blend of flavors, textures, and colors, this dish captures the heart and soul of home-cooked comfort food. Whether you’re sharing it with family or savoring it alone, each spoonful brings a taste of tradition and warmth. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this delightful culinary adventure. You won’t regret it!