There are many reasons why you should visit Singapore at least once in your life.
Though it’s quite small, you won’t be disappointed by the number of attractions it offers. It’s got museums, amusement parks, world-class zoos, historical buildings, and more.
Aside from these attractions, the island country is a paradise for foodies. So if that’s your number one reason for wanting to visit Singapore, you’re in for a treat.
That being said, here are some Singapore dishes you ought to try when you visit. Now, don’t be scared if some of our recommendations here are from food stalls or hawker centers. Remember, the best places to eat are often where the locals go.
1. Hainanese Chicken Rice
One of the most popular dishes in Singapore, Hainanese chicken rice is a simple dish. It’s just steamed or boiled chicken served over rice that’s been cooked in chicken stock. Before tucking in, don’t forget to pour some dipping sauce over the chicken.
What’s great about this dish is you can find it almost anywhere. Some stalls make it a bit spicy, while others make it more salty or gingery. However you prefer it, the chicken will almost always have that melt-in-your-mouth quality.
2. Chili Crab
Said to be one of the national dishes of Singapore, chili crab is a dish best eaten with both hands. Yes, it can be messy to eat, but you won’t want to waste even a single drop.
There are many versions of chili crab, but the most popular one involves hard-shell crabs and a sauce made from sambal, tomato paste, and eggs. The resulting dish isn’t spicy despite its name. Once you’ve finished all the crabs, get some deep-fried buns called “mantous” to soak up the remaining sauce.
3. Laksa
A list of the most popular food in Singapore wouldn’t be complete without laksa, a spicy soup with rice noodles, shrimp, fish cakes, chicken meat, and egg. Sometimes, cockles and tofu puffs are added.
What makes it unique is its curry-like flavor. Now, some types of laksa are richer, while others are more water-based. Be sure to try different types when you visit the city.
4. Hokkien Mee
If you’re after some fried noodle dish, you’d probably like Hokkien Mee, which uses two types of noodles (egg and rice).
The noodles are stir-fried with some seafood, spring onions, and fresh lime. Topping the whole dish is a thick sauce made from dried prawns and fresh shrimp. If you find the taste too oily, you can squeeze some calamansi on top or add some sambal.
5. Kaya Toast
The best thing to eat when you’re having your afternoon coffee or tea, kaya toast is toasted bread with kaya or coconut jam.
If you’re having one for breakfast, you should eat them with soft boiled eggs. Add some dash of black soya sauce if you’re feeling adventurous, just like the locals do.
Other Singapore Dishes You Should Try
Getting to know the different foods in Singapore is an adventure, so don’t be afraid to try everything you could get your hands on. Other dishes you should include in your list are barbecued stingray, otak-otak, roti prata, rojak, and more.
Aside from food in Singapore, don’t forget to explore its best attractions. Jurong Bird Park, for example, is Asia’s largest bird paradise, while Orchard Road is a shopping mecca.
Looking for More Delicious Food Tips?
Now that you know some of the best Singapore dishes to try, why not recreate the recipes at home?
For recipes, cooking techniques, and more, don’t forget to check out our other posts.
