John Myers
Traditional Singaporean Breads: A Rare Find?
Among the many traditional foods that Singapore can boast of, traditional breads are often overlooked. Unlike in many other Asian countries where bread is a staple food, Singapore has its own unique bread culture that combines Malay, Chinese, and Indian influences. However, traditional Singaporean breads have become a rare find in today’s fast-paced and globalized world. Many bakeries and cafes have started to offer Western-style breads and pastries, while traditional bakeries are struggling to stay open.
The traditional breads of Singapore are made with locally sourced ingredients and are usually steamed or baked. Some of the most popular types of traditional Singaporean breads include “kaya toast”, a toasted bread spread with a coconut jam called “kaya”; “Roti John”, a type of bread filled with meat and egg; “Kueh lapis”, a layered and colourful cake; and “Apam balik”, a sweet pancake filled with butter, sugar, and peanuts. Despite their popularity, these breads are not easy to find nowadays. However, there are still a few bakeries and cafes in Singapore that specialize in traditional breads and pastries.
Exploring the World of Singaporean Pastries
Singaporean pastries are a perfect blend of Chinese, Malay, and Indian flavors and techniques. These pastries are often made with coconut milk, pandan leaves, and other local ingredients that give them a unique flavour profile. Some popular Singaporean pastries include “Kueh dadar”, a pandan-flavored crepe filled with grated coconut and palm sugar; “Kueh bangkit”, a buttery cookie made with tapioca flour; and “Putu piring”, a steamed rice cake filled with palm sugar and coated with grated coconut.
In recent years, Singaporean pastry chefs have started to experiment with different flavors and techniques, resulting in fusion pastries that combine traditional and modern elements. For example, some bakeries now offer “Kueh pie tee” filled with truffle mushrooms, or “Kueh salat” with matcha and yuzu flavors. Despite these new variations, traditional Singaporean pastries remain popular among locals and tourists alike.
Where to Find Authentic Singaporean Baked Goods
For those looking to try traditional Singaporean breads and pastries, there are still a few bakeries and cafes that specialize in these baked goods. Some of the most popular ones include “Bengawan Solo”, a chain of bakeries that offer a wide range of traditional Singaporean breads and pastries; “Tiong Bahru Bakery”, a bakery that specializes in French-style pastries but also offers traditional Singaporean breads and pastries; and “Flourish Pastries”, a hidden gem that offers authentic Malay and Peranakan baked goods.
In addition to these bakeries, there are also several hawker centres and food markets in Singapore that offer traditional Singaporean breads and pastries. For example, the Maxwell Food Centre is famous for its “Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice” as well as its “Lek Lim Nonya Cake Confectionery”, which sells traditional Peranakan kuehs. Overall, for those looking to explore the world of traditional Singaporean baked goods, there are still plenty of options available in Singapore.
