Also known as a foodie’s paradise, Singapore is the melting point of cultures from all over the world. Influenced by the Chinese, Indian, Malay and Western worlds, it has become a bustling city-state boasting a rich gastronomic heritage. From street hawkers to upscale restaurants, Singapore dishes are a must-try for everyone irrespective of the budget. The best thing is that you'll get something to cater for your taste, whether you are a fan of bold and spicy dishes or subtle, sweet and savoury ones, Singapore food awaits you with its lip-smacking taste. Affordability and hygiene are the keys, thanks to street hawkers and high food safety standards which have made Singapore a must-visit place for anyone seeking to embark on an authentic culinary experience.
Let's start our expedition to must-try dishes in Singapore
1. Hainanese chicken rice
Easily the signature Singapore dish, Hainanese chicken rice has a special place in the local cuisine. Is chicken your weakness? If yes, then, this would be the best Singapore food to try for you. It's a harmonious blend of perfectly poached chicken, fragrant rice and some unique dippings. Hainanese chicken rice has a trio of dippings, the sweet and savoury dark soy sauce, the refreshing ginger scallion sauce and the hot chilli sauce, which bring the chicken dish to life. Whether you enjoy it as a snack or a meal, this Singapore cuisine is sure to let you crave more.
2. Chilli crab
Our next dish is messy yet satisfying. Chilli crab is a popular seafood dish, often synonymous with Singapore cuisine. Whether you are a seafood lover or somebody who is open to trying new dishes, chilli crab is sure to please you with its mouthwatering taste. This dish is traditionally made with fresh mud crabs which are known for their tender and juicy meat. What makes this dish even more addictive is its rich sauce, giving you a sweet and savoury flavour with a spicy kick. It is made with a thick Tomato sauce seasoned with a medley of spices including black pepper, garlic and ginger. To enjoy this yummy Singapore food, don't be afraid to get messy, use your hands to crack and pick and immerse yourself in this succulent culinary delight.
3. Kaya toast
Are you looking for a classic Singaporean breakfast? Nothing beats Kaya toast. This dish consists of two slices of toast with butter and kaya. Coming to the star of the show, kaya, is a kind of unique jam made with egg, sugar, coconut cream and pandan leaves, giving it a rich, sweet and coconutty flavour. The way a beverage is must whether we take toast or rusk, similarly Kaya toast is enjoyed with kopi (coffee) or teh (tea) often accompanied with soft boiled eggs too. The best way to relish this Singapore food, crack the soft-cooked egg into a bowl, and add soy sauce and white pepper to taste. Then generously dip the kaya toast into it to get an authentic Singapore cuisine experience.
4. Laksa
Whether you are a seafood lover, noodle lover or an adventurous eater, always in a hunt for some exotic dishes, laksa would be the best Singapore cuisine to try for you. It is a dish of rice noodles (sometimes vermicelli noodles too) in a hot curry or soup. What makes it so yummy are its delicious ingredients including coconut milk-based broth, the heart of the dish, seafood (fish or prawns), chicken and vegetables. The most crucial are laksa leaves, an aromatic herb which elevates this Singapore food to another level. Along with laksa, you would be provided with a dollop of sambal, a spicy chilli paste letting you adjust the spiciness of the dish as per your personal preference.
5. Bak Kut Teh
Believed to have come from China with Hokkien immigrants, Bak Kut Teh has become one of the most popular Singapore dishes. The dish traditionally consists of pork ribs stewed with a mixture of fragrant herbs and spices. But nowadays, you can also find Bak Kut Teh made with beef, mutton or even ostrich meat. Its complex flavour makes it worth trying. Get ready to fall in love with this hearty soup. Interestingly, you won't find the same Bak Kut Teh everywhere as it is made differently in different regions with a slight variation in herbs and saltiness. If you are willing to try a strong herbal flavour, go for Herbal Bak Kut Teh and if spiciness is what attracts you, peppery Bak Kut Teh is for you. One of the most recommended Singapore dishes, Bak Kut Teh is worth the try.
6. Satay
Best enjoyed as a snack, Satay is among the most popular Singapore dishes. Made with grilled meat, it has an irresistible smoky flavour, making you yearn for more. Whether it's chicken, beef or pork, it is marinated in a blend of flavourful spices and coconut milk before being grilled. Satay is served with a subtle and creamy peanut sauce, its nutty flavour balances the smoky and savoury flavour of grilled meat so perfectly. You could also find some dishes like cucumber salad or ketupat (rice cakes), a perfect complement to satay’s smoky flavour.