Hainanese Chicken Rice
Hainanese chicken rice is another Singaporean specialty. This popular dish is a perfect example of the power of minimalism. At first glance, a plate of poached chicken and steamed rice might seem rather unremarkable.
But when it comes to Hainanese chicken, it’s all in the details, and Singapore’s best versions have even been awarded Michelin stars. The chicken must be delicately poached and covered in a gelatinous skin. The rice is coated with chicken fat and flavored with ginger. Aromatic condiments like chili sauce and ginger-garlic paste round out the dish harmoniously.
Char kway teow
Char kway teow is a very popular street food in Singapore, whose origins date back to immigrants from southern China. Roughly translated, the name “stir-fried flat rice strips” barely describes the incredible variety of textures in this dish, as the rice noodles acquire a smoky flavor called “wok hei” when cooked over high heat in a wok .
A sweet soy sauce caramelizes during cooking before Chinese sausages, cockles, fish balls, and various other seafood or meats are added. Bean sprouts, leafy greens, eggs, chives, and a generous dose of garlic complete the dish.
Char siu
Cantonese barbecue is rightly renowned worldwide, and char siu, in particular, is a true delicacy: the beautifully glazed, slow-roasted pork strips are a must-try at street stalls across the city. Maltose sugar often adds a touch of shine, and red food coloring gives the dish a distinctive look.
Char siu is served over steamed rice or yellow egg noodles , with or without broth.
Rojak
Rojak means “mixed” in Malay. The name refers to an inspired craft that combines opposing flavors and textures that complement each other perfectly. This fruit salad is a combination of sweet, tangy, spicy, and sour .
Typical variations of rojak contain fruits such as mangoes, rose apples, and pineapples, as well as vegetables such as bean sprouts. Tamarind, palm sugar, and lime give the dressing a slightly sweet and sour taste, while peanuts and fermented shrimp paste add a rich flavor.
Singapore sling
The Singapore sling is another Singapore specialty that you absolutely must try during your stay. This drink is more than just a cocktail: it symbolizes the country’s good taste, history, and social connections .
According to popular tradition, a bartender at Singapore’s Raffles Hotel invented the Singapore Sling in 1915 as a drink for respectable ladies who, at the time, were not to be seen drinking whiskey. Whether this story is true or not, this pink drink remains a staple in the city’s bars.