Bak Kut Teh
Bak Kut Teh is a fragrant, herbal pork rib soup that is a beloved staple in Malaysian and Singaporean cuisine. The dish features tender pork ribs simmered for hours in a complex broth of herbs and spices, including star anise, cinnamon, cloves, and garlic, often served with rice, fried dough sticks, and a side of dark soy sauce. Its exact origins are debated, but it is widely considered a comforting, hearty meal with roots in Chinese immigrant communities.
🍳 View the full Bak Kut Teh recipe →
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Bak Kut Teh is a high-protein dish, with the pork ribs providing a significant amount of protein and some fat, while the herbal broth is typically low in carbohydrates. A standard serving, including the soup and ribs, generally ranges from 300 to 500 calories, depending on the cut of pork and portion size, and it offers minerals like iron and zinc from the meat and herbs.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Carbs | 10 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
| Potassium | 450 mg |
| Phosphorus | 300 mg |
| Iron | 3 mg |
| Zinc | 5 mg |
| Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) | 0.5 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.4 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 1.5 mcg |
| Selenium | 25 mcg |
Per 1 bowl (400 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, Bak Kut Teh is more than just a meal; it's a communal experience often enjoyed for breakfast or as a restorative tonic, reflecting the Chinese medicinal philosophy of balancing the body with nourishing soups. Nutritionally, the slow-simmered broth is believed to have warming properties, making it a popular choice for replenishing energy and providing comfort, especially in cooler weather or during periods of fatigue.
🍽️ Related dishes
AI estimate may be inaccurate · Terms