Joanna James
Despite its size, Singaporean culture is rich, vibrant, and endlessly diverse, seamlessly translating into its cuisine. Embark on a culinary adventure through the city-state, and discover the flavours of Singapore's heritage; a melting pot of cultural identities from all over Asia.
Arguably the most recognisable dish in Singapore, its simplicity and deliciousness have earned it its place in the hawker hall of fame. Served best by generations-old stalls at Singapore's numerous hawkers, each plate of chicken rice is made with love, and their own unique adjustments. In addition to the tender chicken, the jasmine rice is cooked in a fragrant chicken stock, simmering with various spices like ginger and garlic. The dish is so beloved that it is inseparable from the Singaporean identity.
A popular marriage of Malay and Chinese flavours, Laksa is another culinary classic. This hearty dish features a rich, coconut curry broth infused with an umami Laksa paste, topped with rice noodles, vegetables, and various proteins. The paste is packed with a myriad of bold spices, and flavoured with shrimp paste, fish sauce, and tangy lime juice—a complex, yet unifying accompaniment to the fresh seafood and chewy noodles.
A comforting family staple, Singaporean chilli crab is a spicy and tangy explosion, where whole mud crabs are doused in a warm blend of chilli and tomato. Found almost anywhere, from hawkers to halal buffet places in Singapore, the soft, melt-in-your-mouth crab and rich sauces are a nostalgic delicacy. The crab is often served with a side of roti, bread rolls, or even mantou buns at Mercure ICON Singapore City Centre Hotel; the perfect vessel to savour every tender bite.
Although popular around Southeast Asia, Hokkien Mee is a beloved Singaporean favourite at hawkers. Hokkien Mee is a stir-fried noodle dish made with a mix of egg and rice noodles, infused with a rich seafood stock. Originating from the Fujian Province in China, the noodles are often topped with prawns, squid, and a squeeze of lime, and paired with sambal chilli for an extra kick and multicultural touch.
A dish with a fascinating story behind its creation, Fish Head Curry is a bold and aromatic experience, inspired by Indian and Chinese culinary traditions. Thought to have been invented by an Indian chef looking to appeal to Chinese customers, this curry blends the best of the East and South. The dish features a meaty fish head—considered a delicacy in Chinese cuisine—simmered in a spicy, tangy curry with vegetables like okra and eggplant. It’s perfect for sharing and best enjoyed with rice.
Introduced by Indian immigrants who made a home in Southeast Asia, this flaky, buttery flatbread is a staple in Singaporean Indian cuisine. Served with a side of curry, roti prata can be enjoyed plain or stuffed with fillings like cheese, egg, or even bananas. It’s a versatile dish perfect for breakfast, lunch, or supper. Despite the contemporary twists and new toppings like milo powder, prata kosong, or plain prata, remains the go-to favourite. Grab a serving for even just a dollar, at eateries like Al-Azhar or Mr and Mrs Mohgan’s.
A classic Singaporean breakfast, kaya toast features thin slices of bread slathered with kaya (a sweet coconut and egg jam) and butter. Pair it with a cup of kopi (local coffee) or teh (tea), and soft-boiled eggs drizzled with soy sauce, for an authentic experience. Unlike normal fruit jams, kaya jam is creamy, soft, and almost floral without an overbearing sweetness, making it a must-try delicacy during your holiday in Singapore.
To beat Singapore's tropical heat, order a tall serving of Ice Kacang, the island's version of the famous shaved ice dessert. Topped with syrups, sweet corn, red beans, and jelly, and often garnished with a scoop of ice cream or drizzled with condensed milk, it’s a refreshing treat found at hawker centres like Tiong Bahru Market.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
