Singaporean Food to Try: 5 Dishes You Can’t Miss

Contributed by Jonalyn Estrella

Besides taking Instagram-worthy shots and sightseeing, food is one of the quintessential aspects that you shouldn’t miss out on when you’re travelling. Not only do you get to know more about the country’s culture, but it also opens your eyes and your palate to a different world. It’s an experience worth the effort — something you will remember even months after flying back home.

 Singapore is a small island located at the southern end of the Malay Peninsula in Southeast Asia, between the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea. It is a host to a myriad of cultures, which explains why the Singaporean food scene is a reflection of Malay cuisine influenced by the Chinese, in addition to the Indians, Arabs, Europeans and many more.

If you love to eat, then look no further. Here are five must-try dishes in Singapore you are sure to love!

Also read: This Filipino Fast Food Chain Now Has Its Own Cloud Kitchen in Singapore

Singaporean food: 5 Dishes you have to try

1. Bak kut teh

Bak kut teh or pork bone tea is a dish famed throughout Singapore and Malaysia. It consists of tender, boiled pork ribs that have been seasoned with garlic, white pepper, and salt. It is ultimately paired with white rice and a cup of Chinese tea.

2. Chicken rice

Known as one of the most popular dishes in Singapore, this Hainanese-influenced dish is a combination of steamed white chicken and subtly-flavored yet fragrant rice with hints of chicken taste, accompanied by a garlic chili dip. 

3. Char kway teow

Char kway teow is a sweet yet savory wok-fried noodle dish. It is made of flat rice noodles, soy sauce, beansprouts, a good helping of fresh prawns, cockles and chili. You’ll find yourself ordering seconds for this indulgent meal.

4. Black pepper crab

If you’re a seafood connoisseur, then you’ve come to the right place. Hard-shelled crabs are drenched in black pepper, oyster sauce, shallots and garlic. Allow your taste buds to go on a ride to flavour town as it is described as savory and sweet. Ask for white rice on the side to complete the hearty experience.

5. Ice cream sandwich

End your trip on a sweet note with the iconic Singaporean ice cream sandwich. You can find these bricks of ice cream wrapped in your choice of wafer or slice of bread (plain or in a colourful design) along the vibrant streets of Singapore. Ice cream flavours range from the simplest of chocolate and vanilla to the most distinctive such as durian and red bean. They are often served by vendors who are known as uncle or auntie — a colloquial term referring to the elderly.

Also read: Taiwanese Food to Try: What to Eat in Taiwan Night Markets

When it comes to exploring the Singaporean food scene, which dish are you most excited to try? The great news is this: You can find these fantastic Singaporean staples in any hawker stall or restaurant and your belly will surely be full!

Featured image credit: Clem Onojeghuo | Pexels