The Multi-Culturalism Of Food In Singapore

A visit to Singapore will not be complete without trying all the local food. The island city is famous in the world for being a food paradise. There are countless dishes that serve to tickle anyone’s tastebuds.

With Singapore being the epitome of a multi-culture and multi-racial community, her food culture sees no escape from being influenced by different people. As there are four original races in Singapore including the Chinese, Malay, Indian and Eurasian communities, they have come together to make her the Asian food mecca.

One of its most common yet most popular dishes is chicken rice. The best chicken rice in Singapore is often sold in hawker stalls and not in expensive restaurants. It is a classic local dish that originated from the forefathers and not the result of any famous chef.

The Lion City is also known for its range of Malay foods. Nasi lemak is a meal that has an assortment of side dishes with white rice. The side dishes are a mixture of egg, chili, chicken, fried anchovies and otak otak. The latter is actually fish paste mixed with different local spices.

Nasi lemak might sound like nothing special. However, it can be taken as a meal in any situation and thus its popularity. This dish has the qualities of being convenient, healthy and cheap, so it is not difficult to understand its popularity.

Dishes from other foreign cultures have also seen a growing presence in Singapore. Due to their openness and acceptance of foreigners from as far as Africa, China, Korea and more to set up home here and contribute to the island state's growth, their national dishes have also become part of many locals' favorites.

The Japanese have also come to Singapore to work and live, and are one of the largest expatriate communities in the island city. This has resulted in hundreds of Japanese eateries and restaurants sprouting up across the island and introducing East Asian cuisine to the locals. It might be difficult to find the best authentic Japanese ramen in Singapore due to the sheer number of shops available.

With the introduction of the Korean Wave, this other East Asian country has seen a huge increase of its culture being exported. Singapore is no exception to being influenced by them. There is also a sizable local Korean community that serve their delicacies and the best Korean restaurant in Singapore can often be found in their midst.