No trip to Singapore would be complete without getting souvenirs. After all, they serve as reminders of how much you enjoyed your trip and also make excellent gifts for your loved ones back home. There are a lot of products that make for great souvenirs, from clothes made by local designers to trinkets that feature iconic Singapore attractions like the Merlion. However, among all the souvenirs you can buy, some of the best and most appreciated have to be Singapore food items.
Singapore is a multicultural nation that’s made up of various ethnicities, including Chinese, Indian, and Malay. That’s why it’s no surprise that the island’s food scene is as diverse as its people. From laksa and char kway teow to satay, and oyster omelette, you’ll never run out of culinary delights to experience in the so-called Lion City. However, although these dishes can tickle your taste buds, it’s difficult to bring them or are even prohibited on your flight home.
Fortunately, Singapore has plenty of tasty food souvenirs you can easily pack into your luggage. Let’s have a look at 10 popular food souvenir products you can find in supermarkets, shopping centres, and specialty stores all over Singapore.
Salted Egg Yolk-Flavoured Chips
Salted egg yolk-flavoured chips are delectable snacks that combine the crunch of potato crisps and the savoury flavour of salted egg yolk. The chips’ unique and rich umami flavour appeals to both locals and tourists, so it’s no surprise that they’ve gained immense popularity over the years. As such, you can easily find them at local snack shops and supermarkets. You can also get them at duty-free stores at Changi Airport, so you can grab a few bags to complete your last-minute Changi airport shopping experience.
Prawn Crackers
Locally known as keropok, prawn crackers are thin, crispy snacks made from a mixture of processed shrimp or prawn meat blended with tapioca and water. This mixture is then rolled out, steamed, and sliced before it’s deep-fried to achieve a perfect crunch. These airy and light snacks are cherished for their unique texture and the variety of shapes and flavours they come in. They also pair well with various drinks and sauces, making them excellent treats. You can find plenty of prawn crackers in Singapore’s wet markets, supermarkets, or specialty snack shops.
Bak Kwa
Bak kwa is a thinly sliced sweet and savoury grilled pork jerky that’s typically enjoyed during Chinese New Year. However, you can purchase it year-round from local bak kwa shops and gourmet grocery stores. This Singaporean specialty is known for its irresistible blend of sweet and savoury flavours, as well as its slightly chewy texture. Its deep red colour is also considered to be auspicious in Chinese tradition, symbolising good luck and fortune.
Pork Floss
Pork floss or rousong is a versatile topping made from finely shredded seasoned pork, which is then dried to create a fluffy, savoury garnish. Its umami flavour enhances a wide range of dishes, from rice and congee to bread and pastries, making it a staple in many Singaporean cuisines. Because of its popularity, you won’t have any difficulty finding pork floss. This food souvenir is readily available in most supermarkets and specialty shops throughout Singapore.
Instant Food Pastes
Instant food pastes are pre-made spice or sauce pastes that simplify the preparation of traditional Singaporean dishes. Some popular flavours include curry, laksa, and Hainanese chicken rice. Thanks to their convenience, they can save you a lot of time when cooking while delivering authentic flavours. Thus, no matter where you are, you can easily recreate the distinct flavours of Singaporean cuisine. A wide selection of instant food pastes can be found in supermarkets and specialty grocery stores across Singapore.
Sambal
Sambal is a fiery chilli paste that adds a spicy kick to a wide range of dishes, from Singapore chilli crab to nasi lemak. The bold, spicy flavour of sambal adds an extra dimension to local and Southeast Asian dishes, making it a favourite among locals and spice enthusiasts. Sambal paste is readily available in supermarkets and local markets.
Kaya Jam
If you’re looking for a sweet treat to bring home, you can’t go wrong with kaya jam. It’s a creamy coconut and egg jam known for its unique fragrance and sweet taste. Its ingredients create a delightful flavour that pairs wonderfully with toast and butter. Even better, kaya jam can also be used as a filling for pies and steamed buns. This food souvenir can be purchased at most supermarkets and local bakeries.
Pineapple Tarts
Another sweet treat you can try are pineapple tarts: buttery pastries filled with pineapple jam that are often shaped like tarts or coins. They’re a beloved treat during Chinese New Year, symbolising good luck and prosperity, but they’re easily available in local bakeries and specialty stores. Their sweet flavour and melt-in-your-mouth texture make them irresistible treats for the young and young-at-heart alike.
Pandan Cake
Pandan cake is a green sponge cake known for its slightly sweet flavour and fragrant aroma that is adored by both locals and tourists. What’s more, its vibrant green colour adds to its visual appeal. You can purchase pandan cake in local bakeries and dessert shops.
Durian-Flavoured Treats
Even though durian is known for its pungent smell, many Singaporeans consider it to be the “king of fruits”. With its surprisingly sweet flavour and its custardy, soft texture, many locals can become so addicted to it and tend to eat more than they should. A lot of curious tourists may be curious enough to want to take some durian back home with them so that their family and friends can try it out themselves. Unfortunately, it’s nearly impossible to take a whole fruit with you, even as excess baggage, as many airlines do not allow it on board because of its smell. The next best option you have is bringing home durian-flavoured treats. Although these food souvenirs can’t compare to the real thing, they can still capture its essence and flavour. Some of the most popular durian-flavoured treats are candies, cookies, and wafers.
There’s no doubt that there are plenty of products in Singapore that make for excellent souvenirs. However, when you want to share the true essence of Singapore’s culture with your loved ones, there’s no better way than to gift them with the city-state’s popular food souvenirs. With these food items, you can rest assured that you can give your friends and family a real taste of your Singapore experience.
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