Traditional Dishes to Try in Singapore

Are you planning a trip to Singapore and eager to explore its culinary landscape? You're in the right place! This article will guide you through the rich cultural influences that shape the country's cuisine and introduce you to 10 must-try traditional dishes that will make your visit unforgettable. Get ready for a delightful gastronomic journey!

⭐ Don't miss out on the top 10 things to see and do in Singapore.

Gastronomy of Singapore: Cultural Influences

As a cosmopolitan city, Singapore's culinary scene is a reflection of its rich cultural tapestry. The country's gastronomy is a vibrant blend of various culinary influences brought by its diverse population over centuries. In particular, four main cultures have significantly enriched Singapore's culinary landscape:

• Malay: The Malay cuisine has greatly influenced local dishes, with notable examples like Nasi Lemak (coconut rice) and Satay (grilled meat skewers).
• Chinese: The Chinese community has left an indelible mark on Singaporean food, evident in popular dishes such as Hainanese Chicken Rice (steamed chicken with rice), Char Kway Teow (stir-fried noodles), and, of course, beloved Dumplings.
• Indian: Indian culinary traditions are prominently featured in dishes like Roti Prata (flatbread), Chicken Tikka Masala, and Masala Dosa (rice and lentil crepe filled with spiced potatoes).
• Peranakan: This unique culture represents a fusion of Chinese and Malay influences, resulting in dishes like Laksa (noodle soup with coconut milk and spices) and Ayam Buah Keluak (chicken with keluak nuts).

We participated in a cooking class in Singapore, which turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip. If you love food and cooking, this is a unique experience to consider. To sample these delicious dishes, check out our list of 7 restaurants in Singapore where you can eat well and affordably.

Now that you have a deeper understanding of Singapore's culinary heritage, it's time to dive into the flavors. Here are the 10 traditional dishes you must try in Singapore! Enjoy your meal!

1. Hainanese Chicken Rice

If there's one dish we recommend trying in Singapore and Malaysia, it’s Hainanese Chicken Rice. This simple yet comforting dish features steamed chicken served with fragrant rice cooked in chicken broth and ginger, giving it a unique aroma and flavor. It's often accompanied by sauces like chili, soy sauce, and a ginger-garlic mix. This mild dish tends to appeal to everyone, making it a safe choice for all palates.

2. Chili Crab

Visiting Singapore without trying Chili Crab is simply not an option. This culinary gem is a must-try, combining fresh crab with a rich and complex sauce. The crab is cooked in a vibrant red sauce made from tomatoes, chili, garlic, onions, beaten eggs, and a blend of spices such as pepper, turmeric, and coriander. The result is a sweet and slightly spicy sauce that beautifully complements the juicy crab meat. What a flavor explosion!

3. Char Kway Teow

Another beloved dish in Singapore is Char Kway Teow, which consists of stir-fried rice noodles tossed in a wok with soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, onions, eggs, and additional ingredients like chicken, prawns, or tofu. This straightforward yet delightful recipe is sure to please a variety of taste buds, making it a perfect go-to meal.

4. Laksa

If you enjoy soups, Laksa is a must-try when in Singapore. This coconut milk-based soup is infused with curry paste and spices. It’s served with either wheat or rice noodles, accompanied by ingredients like prawns, chicken, or tofu, bean sprouts, aromatic herbs, and eggs. It’s the ideal dish for a comforting dinner after exploring the city.

5. Satay

Hailing from Malay and Indonesian cuisine, Satay consists of deliciously grilled chicken skewers prepared over charcoal, served with a rich and creamy peanut sauce. This dish is among the most popular Asian recipes worldwide, providing the perfect opportunity to savor it in its place of origin.

6. Fish Head Curry

Originating from India, Fish Head Curry is a dish commonly found on festive tables in Singapore. It involves cooking a rock fish head in a coconut milk and curry sauce infused with spices such as cumin seeds, coriander, turmeric, chili, onions, garlic, and ginger. It’s typically served with steamed rice or flatbread like roti or naan.

7. Rojak

Rojak is perhaps the most quirky salad you’ll encounter during your travels in Singapore. This dish combines fruits and vegetables, drizzled with a sweet and sour sauce made from tamarind, shrimp paste, a hint of chili, and peanuts. The combination of sweet and savory flavors is quite intriguing! In our cooking class, we prepared it with ingredients like radish, pineapple, cucumber, green mango, and apple. A light and refreshing dish!

8. Nasi Lemak

Nasi Lemak is a staple dish in both Singapore and Malaysia, consisting primarily of coconut rice, served with sambal (spicy chili paste), crunchy peanuts, boiled egg, anchovies, cucumber, and typically fried chicken or beef rendang.

9. Bak Kut Teh

Bak Kut Teh is a soup made with pork ribs simmered for hours in a fragrant mix of herbs and spices, resulting in a savory and aromatic broth. If you're feeling hungry and spot this dish on a restaurant menu, don’t hesitate! Trust me, it’s a treat!

10. Kaya Toast

A quintessential Singaporean dish perfect for breakfasts or snacks is Kaya Toast. This dish consists of toasted bread served with Kaya, a creamy spread that resembles coconut jam. It’s often paired with soft-boiled eggs and a freshly brewed coffee!

As you can see, dining in Singapore is like stepping into a gastronomic universe where each bite reflects culture and tradition. While some dishes, like fish head curry, may not appeal to everyone, you’re sure to find a favorite among the many options. We are particularly fond of chicken rice, satay, and kaya toast!

Are there any other traditional dishes from Singapore that you know of? Be sure to check out our article on recommended restaurants where you can eat well and affordably in Singapore.

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