No visit to Perak is complete without a taste of its iconic Bean Sprout Chicken in Ipoh.
Nga Choi Kai is a Cantonese-style poached chicken served alongside fresh taugeh (bean sprouts).
Simple but mouthwatering the Chicken Rice dish features crunchy, plump, and incredibly tender taugeh – thanks to the mineral-rich water sourced from the limestone hills surrounding the Kinta Valley.
The unique taste of the taugeh is truly irreplaceable, a testament to the region’s rich mineral water.
Bean Sprout Chicken In Ipoh
Both the chicken and bean sprouts are served separately, allowing you to enjoy their distinct textures.
The slow poached chicken, tender and silken, is coated in a light, fragrant soy sauce gravy made with sesame oil, shallot oil, and yes, chicken fat.
Topped with a sprinkle of fresh scallions, it’s simple yet unforgettable.
You can enjoy Nga Choi Kai with rice.
Ipoh is long regarded as the birthplace of Ipoh Kai Si Hor Fun (flat rice noodles), a classic Cantonese favorite.
This pairing perfectly captures the essence of Ipoh’s culinary charm.
Bean Sprout Chicken in Ipoh is out of this world in taste, crunch, and texture!
If you love chicken rice, the Bean Sprout Chicken in Ipoh (Nga Choi Kai) should definitely be on your radar.
While chicken rice is a staple across Malaysia, in Ipoh, it has become the iconic dish of the state.
After tasting it, you might even find yourself inspired to make it at home!
Here’s an introduction to the Top 5 Bean Sprout Chicken in Ipoh, where you can experience the authentic flavors of Nga Choi Kai.
Contents
Cowan Street Ayam Tauge & Koitiau
Address: Cowan Street, Ipoh, Perak
Operating Hours: Daily from 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM (subject to availability)
Why It’s Special: Located on Cowan Street, this gem is a local favorite (and the Editor’s pick) for a simple yet mouthwatering version of Nga Choi Kai.
The combination of smooth koitiau and tender poached chicken makes for an unforgettable meal.
Though the restaurant has irregular operating hours, the food is absolutely worth the wait.
Best Chicken Rice in Ipoh served with a side of crunchy taugeh is a highlight!
Tip: Always call ahead to check their hours to avoid any disappointment.
Lou Wong Bean Sprouts Chicken
Address: 49, Jalan Yau Tet Shin, 30300 Ipoh, Perak
Operating Hours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Why It’s Special: Since 1957, Lou Wong Bean Sprouts Chicken has become an iconic part of Ipoh’s food scene, famous for its Nga Choi Kai.
This legendary spot in the heart of Ipoh serves the dish with crunchy bean sprouts and juicy poached chicken, paired with rice or koitiau soup.
Known for its consistency and quality, it’s a must-visit for tourists and locals alike.
Tip: Be prepared for a crowd, especially during peak hours, as Lou Wong is a popular tourist destination.
It’s considered by many to serve the Best Chicken Rice in Ipoh.
Onn Kee Tauge Ayam
Address: 51, Jalan Yau Tet Shin, 30300 Ipoh, Perak
Operating Hours: Daily from 10:30 AM to 9:00 PM
Why It’s Special: Onn Kee is located right next to Lou Wong and offers a similar menu with some slight differences.
Their signature Nga Choi Kai features tender poached chicken and crunchy taugeh.
The laid-back vibe makes it a great spot to enjoy this iconic dish in peace.
It’s a perfect choice for late-night cravings too!
Tip: Onn Kee stays open late into the night, so it’s the perfect spot to satisfy a late-night craving for Bean Sprout Chicken in Ipoh.
Restoran Sam Ma
Address: 3, Jalan S. A. Lingam, Taman Ipoh Selatan, 31400 Ipoh, Perak
Operating Hours: Thursday to Tuesday: 11:00 AM–3:00 PM, 6:00 PM–9:00 PM (Closed on Wednesdays)
Why It’s Special: Sam Ma Restaurant serves a different take on the classic Nga Choi Kai with a focus on tender steamed kampung chicken, flavorful rice, and crunchy bean sprouts.
This place also offers other tasty sides like fish and beef balls.
The ambiance can be noisy, but it adds to the local experience!
Tip: The sauce at Sam Ma leans towards sweetness, which may not be for everyone.
If you prefer a more peppery flavor, try Lou Wong’s bean sprouts.
Ipoh Boy KSHF
Address: 21, Persiaran Bandar Baru Tambun 16, Taman Ipoh Impian, 31400 Ipoh, Perak
Operating Hours: Wednesday to Monday: 7:00 AM–2:30 PM (Closed on Sundays)
Why It’s Special: Known for its Kai See Hor Fun (KSHF), Ipoh Boy KSHF serves smooth noodles, rich broth, and tender chicken, with a side of crunchy bean sprouts.
It’s one of the best spots to enjoy this local favorite.
Their fish balls and prawn add a unique twist to the dish, and the portions are generous.
Tip: Arrive early as the food sells out fast, especially the drumsticks and thighs.
Be sure to try the fish balls, which are a crowd favorite!
Final Thoughts
What makes Bean Sprout Chicken in Ipoh truly special, though, is the quality of ingredients.
The bean sprouts in Ipoh are grown in the region’s mineral-rich soil, giving them a unique crunch that can’t be found elsewhere.
The chicken is cooked to perfection, usually poached to retain its natural flavors and juiciness.
Whether you enjoy it with a plate of koitiau or rice, this dish is a celebration of local ingredients and culinary tradition.
Conclusion: Even if you’re not a fan of poached chicken, you must try the taugeh in Ipoh.
When you make your Ipoh trip, you absolutely cannot miss this simple staple dish loved by all Ipohites!
Blog Disclosure: The editor consulted her Ipoh friends, Lili, Stephanie, and Yvonne, for their local expertise, opinions, and recommendations.