Singapore : Izzy Hartel (Food in Singapore)
Food in Singapore
If there is one thing Singapore is known for, it is the diversity among the people who live there. The city-state’s population hails from a vast array of countries and cultures including, but by no means limited to: China, Malaysia, and India. One can see the cultural diversity in Singapore’s four official languages, areas such as Chinatown and Little India, important festivals, unique cultural performances, and, my personal favorite, the food.
Singapore is a foodie’s dream, and I have long looked forward to immersing myself in Singaporean food culture. My first interaction with the exciting amount of food choices was at the canteen just across the town green from my place of residence. I was in awe of the many different stalls taking up the space; everywhere I looked, there was a different kind of cuisine calling my name. I have since made it my personal mission to try every stand before I return home, which is no easy task considering the canteen hosts cuisines from Korea, Japan, Malaysia, Taiwan, and more. One can get anything from simple veggies and rice to Singapore’s signature mala; however, my personal favorite has easily become the jjajangmyeon and kimchi from the Korean station. Feeling adventurous? You can easily find anything you’re looking for at one of the many hawker centers around the city. The chefs here truly pride themselves on their food above everything else, so the flavors are off the charts. Although I rarely find foods that are common in the United States—including breakfast foods, which was an unexpected change—there are so many options, that I have yet to find myself bored with my meals. I am making myself hungry writing this, and I am elated to study in a country that lovingly infuses their culture into their food.
Izzy Hartel
Major: Neurobiology
Hometown: Mukwonago, Wisconsin