Must Eat Snacks in Singapore

Singapore is a food lover's paradise, and its street food scene is second to none. Whether you're a local or a tourist, the variety of snacks available is astounding. In this article, we'll explore the must-eat snacks in Singapore, from iconic street food to trendy new treats. You'll discover not only what to try but also where to find these culinary delights. We'll dive into the history, flavor profiles, and best locations to experience each snack, giving you a comprehensive guide to the best bites in Singapore.

Hainanese Chicken Rice: This dish is often regarded as Singapore's national dish. The chicken is poached to perfection, retaining its juiciness and tenderness. It's served with fragrant rice cooked in chicken stock, accompanied by a tangy chili sauce and a soy-based dipping sauce. Where to try: Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice at Maxwell Food Centre.

Chili Crab: A quintessential Singaporean dish, chili crab features a whole crab stir-fried in a sweet and spicy tomato-based sauce. The sauce is rich and thick, perfect for dipping with mantou (fried buns). Where to try: No Signboard Seafood, known for its delectable chili crab and other seafood dishes.

Laksa: This spicy noodle soup is a fusion of Malay and Chinese cuisines. It's made with a rich coconut milk base, flavored with laksa leaves, and filled with rice noodles, prawns, and sometimes chicken or fish. Where to try: 328 Katong Laksa, famous for its robust and creamy laksa.

Hokkien Mee: This stir-fried noodle dish features a mix of egg noodles and rice noodles, cooked in a savory seafood broth with prawns, squid, and sometimes pork. It's garnished with crispy pork lard and served with a dollop of sambal chili. Where to try: Nam Sing Hokkien Mee, a long-standing favorite among locals.

Satay: These skewers of marinated meat are grilled over charcoal and served with a peanut sauce, rice cakes, and a cucumber-onion salad. The meat is tender and flavorful, and the sauce adds a creamy, nutty kick. Where to try: Lau Pa Sat Festival Market, known for its vibrant satay street.

Kaya Toast: A traditional Singaporean breakfast snack, kaya toast consists of toasted bread filled with kaya (a sweet, coconut and egg jam) and butter. It's often served with soft-boiled eggs and a cup of kopi (local coffee). Where to try: Ya Kun Kaya Toast, a popular chain specializing in this beloved snack.

Carrot Cake: Not to be confused with the sweet dessert, Singapore's carrot cake is a savory dish made from radish cake stir-fried with eggs, preserved turnip, and a mix of sauces. It's typically served with a spicy chili sauce. Where to try: Chatterbox Carrot Cake, renowned for its flavorful rendition of this dish.

Popiah: This fresh spring roll is filled with a mixture of cooked vegetables, turnip, and sometimes meat. The filling is wrapped in a thin, soft crepe and often accompanied by a sweet and savory sauce. Where to try: Song Zhou Popiah, celebrated for its fresh and crispy rolls.

Mee Rebus: A noodle dish with a rich, spicy gravy made from a blend of sweet potato, tamarind, and spices. The dish is typically garnished with hard-boiled eggs, fried shallots, and lime. Where to try: Kacang Pool Haji, known for its unique take on Mee Rebus.

Durian Crepe: For those who love durian, this dessert is a must-try. It's a soft crepe filled with a creamy, rich durian filling. The flavor is strong and distinctive, making it a hit or miss for many. Where to try: Durian King, a shop specializing in durian-based desserts.

Summary: Singapore's snack scene offers something for every palate. From savory dishes like chili crab and Hainanese chicken rice to sweet treats like kaya toast and durian crepe, the city's diverse offerings reflect its rich culinary heritage. Dive into these must-eat snacks to experience the best of Singapore's street food culture.