Paneer Mee Rebus
Global • veg
How to Make Paneer Mee Rebus (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Paneer Mee Rebus is a unique vegetarian twist on a classic Malaysian favourite, Mee Rebus, celebrated for its rich, aromatic gravy and comforting noodle base. Embracing the diversity of Malaysian cuisine, this dish combines Indian-inspired paneer with traditional Malay ingredients like lemongrass, galangal, and sweet potatoes, resulting in a hearty, flavorful meal. The use of local herbs, spices, and condiments such as taucu (fermented soybean paste) and cili padi (bird’s eye chili) creates a harmonious balance of sweet, spicy, and savory notes that truly represent the multicultural fabric of Malaysia. Mee Rebus is commonly enjoyed as a lunch staple throughout Malaysia, from bustling Penang hawker stalls to family gatherings during festive seasons. This version replaces the usual meat with protein-rich paneer, making it ideal for vegetarians and those seeking a lighter yet still satisfying meal. The silky egg noodles are bathed in a thick, subtly sweet gravy infused with turmeric, lemongrass, and a hint of pandan, offering a delightful aroma and creamy texture. Served with fresh garnishes and a squeeze of lime, Paneer Mee Rebus is a wholesome, vibrant dish that perfectly embodies the spirit of Malaysian comfort food.
Ingredients(for 1 deep bowl (approx. 400g) per serving)
- 200g Yellow egg noodles (mee kuning)
- 150g Paneer (cubed)
- 100g Sweet potato (peeled and cubed)
- 1 tbsp Taucu (fermented soybean paste) (local ingredient)
- 2 Shallots (finely sliced)
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 inch Fresh turmeric (kunyit hidup, grated)
- 1 stalk Lemongrass (serai, bruised)
- 1 Pandan leaf (tied into a knot) - optional
- 2 cups Vegetable stock (low sodium)
- 1 Cili padi (bird’s eye chili) (finely chopped) - optional
- 1 tbsp Light soy sauce
- 1 Lime (cut into wedges)
- 1/2 cup Bean sprouts (tauge, blanched)
- 2 tbsp Chopped spring onion
- 2 tbsp Fried shallots (for garnish) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Boil sweet potatoes in a small pot with water until soft. Drain and mash until smooth.
7 minutes
Use a fork or potato masher for a creamy texture.
- 2
In a separate saucepan, heat a little oil. Sauté shallots, garlic, turmeric, and lemongrass until fragrant.
3 minutes
Do not burn the spices; keep the heat medium-low.
- 3
Stir in taucu and continue to sauté for 1 minute. Add the mashed sweet potatoes and mix well.
2 minutes
Taucu adds umami; adjust for saltiness.
- 4
Add vegetable stock and pandan leaf. Bring to a gentle boil, then simmer for 7 minutes until the gravy thickens.
7 minutes
Remove pandan and lemongrass before serving.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Paneer Mee Rebus is a healthy choice because it incorporates nutrient-dense ingredients like sweet potatoes, lean paneer, and fiber-rich vegetables. The gravy is thickened naturally with sweet potatoes rather than heavy cream or santan, keeping saturated fat low. The recipe is adaptable for various dietary needs, and its use of wholesome, fresh Malaysian ingredients makes it suitable for a balanced lunch that energizes without excess calories.
This Paneer Mee Rebus offers a balanced source of protein from paneer and complex carbohydrates from sweet potatoes and noodles. The dish is rich in dietary fiber, vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium from the sweet potatoes and bean sprouts. Using minimal oil, plant-based ingredients, and low-sodium stock ensures the dish is heart-friendly and suitable for those mindful of their fat and sodium intake. Lemongrass and turmeric provide natural antioxidants, while the use of taucu brings beneficial probiotics.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use fresh turmeric for a vibrant color and deeper flavor.
- 💡Tip 2: For extra creaminess, blend the cooked sweet potatoes before adding to the gravy.
- 💡Tip 3: Always add garnishes and lime just before serving to keep them fresh and crunchy.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover gravy and noodles separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gravy gently over the stove and assemble just before serving to maintain texture.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 520.0 kcal |
| Protein | 21.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 62.0 g |
| Total Fat | 20.0 g |
| Fiber | 2.1 g |
| Sugars | 2.8 g |
| Sodium | 340.0 mg |
| Potassium | 170.0 mg |
| Cholesterol | 18.0 mg |
| Vitamin A | 110.0 IU |
| Vitamin C | 5.0 mg |
| Calcium | 120.0 mg |
| Iron | 1.2 mg |
| Magnesium | 22.0 mg |
| Zinc | 0.7 mg |
| Phosphorus | 95.0 mg |
| Vitamin D | 0.2 IU |
| Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin B3 (Niacin) | 0.6 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0.1 µg |
| Folate | 22.0 µg |
