As a food paradise, Singapore is well-known for its diverse and rich cuisine. From hawker centres to high-end restaurants, the city-state offers a wide range of flavours and experiences that attract food lovers from all over the world. When it comes to snacks, Singapore has a plethora of options for both sweet and savoury lovers. However, in this blog post, we will be focusing on the savoury side of Singaporean snacks. From crispy to chewy, salty to spicy, Singapore’s local snacks are a must-try for any foodie visiting the island.
- Fried Carrot Cake
Fried carrot cake is a well-known traditional dish in Singapore and is a popular breakfast and tea-time snack food across the country. Despite its name, this snack is not made of carrots but instead uses radish or daikon as its primary ingredient. The radish is steamed and then mixed with rice flour before being cut into bite-sized pieces and fried with eggs and garlic.
This snack is usually served with chili sauce or dark sweet soy sauce to add some sweetness and spiciness. The contrast of the crispy outer layer and the soft and fluffy interior of the cake makes the fried carrot cake a unique snack that is a must-try for those looking to explore Singapore’s local cuisine.
- Hainanese Chicken Rice
If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying meal in Singapore, Hainanese Chicken Rice is a must-try dish. This iconic local snack is a popular lunch or dinner option among locals and tourists alike. The dish consists of poached chicken served with fragrant rice, seasoned with garlic and ginger and cooked in chicken broth.
The chicken is served either bone-in or boneless and is usually topped with a variety of sauces, including soy sauce and chili sauce. The perfect Hainanese Chicken Rice is all about getting the balance of flavors just right – the chicken should be moist and tender, with a subtle flavor complimented by the aromatic rice and savory sauces. Hainanese Chicken Rice can be found in many hawker centers and restaurants across the island and is a true representation of Singapore’s eclectic food culture.
- Laksa
Laksa has long been a staple dish in Singapore, and it’s no surprise why. A delicious, thick coconut milk-based soup served with either rice vermicelli or egg noodles, laksa is bursting with flavor and spices. The dish comes in many different varieties, with different ingredients used depending on the region, but the most popular versions include laksa lemak and laksa curry. The broth is usually made with herbs such as galangal, turmeric and lemongrass, and spiced with chili, shrimp paste, and dried shrimp.
Fresh seafood, such as king prawns and cockles, add extra texture and flavor to the dish. Overall, laksa is a must-try for any visitor or local looking for a savory Singaporean snack.
- Satay
Satay is considered as one of the most iconic and beloved Singaporean snacks. This popular dish consists of skewered, marinated meats such as chicken, beef, pork or mutton, which are grilled over charcoal fire and served with a rich and flavorful dipping sauce.
The satay is usually accompanied by sides such as cucumber, onion and ketupat (compressed rice cakes) to give a perfect balance of flavors. This savory snack is a perfect choice for people who want to truly indulge in the flavors of Singaporean cuisine. Whether enjoyed as a light snack or a full meal, Satay is a must-try for locals and tourists alike.
- Popiah
Popiah is a well-loved snack in Singapore that is essentially a fresh spring roll filled with vegetables and other delightful ingredients. The filling can include turnips, carrots, lettuce, cucumber, and bean sprouts, all seasoned with a sweet and savory sauce made of soybean paste and chili sauce. Some variations may also include shrimp, sausage or minced pork to add more depth to the flavor.
Popiah is a healthy snack choice that is light yet full of flavor, making it perfect for satisfying cravings any time of the day. The dish is also popular among health-conscious individuals, who appreciate its high-fiber content and low-calorie count. A popular version of this snack can be found at the famous Maxwell Food Centre, where hawker stalls have been serving authentic popiah for decades to locals and tourists alike.
