Rice may be a common feature in Singaporean dishes, but plain ol’ white rice just doesn’t cut it anymore. Nasi lemak, which means “creamy rice” in Malay, consists of fragrant coconut rice and a mouth-watering array of side dishes. Little wonder this dish is a hot favourite among locals – and we have the best places in mind for you to try it.
Before We Begin
Singapore’s favourable geographical location resulted in something more than its reputation for being a good port. Our bustling maritime trade provided an abundance of coconuts, leading to the discovery that adding coconut to rice was a pretty good idea! Banana leaves, which nasi lemak is usually served on, was used as a convenient way to transport food to hardworking farmers out in padi fields.
Two main types of nasi lemak are commonly found today. The Malay version typically serves ikan bilis (fried anchovies), nuts, fried fish, a fried egg, and cucumber slices, while the Chinese version provides a lot more variety in its side dishes, like fried chicken drumsticks, luncheon meat, and fishcakes. Most include pandan leaves to provide a distinctively fragrant aroma. But the dish’s best feature is its spicy sambal sauce, made from chili peppers, shrimp paste, and garlic.
In Central
Prefer dining in air-conditioned comfort? Restaurant Ujong (#01-10 Raffles Hotel Arcade, 328 North Bridge Road) serves up nasi lemak with a twist, offering a Beef Rendang version that’s big on flavour and spice. The chef’s signature sauces, a homemade sambal belachan and a sweet chili, makes this dish pack a hefty punch.
In The East
For a hearty nasi lemak fix near to the scenic Changi coast, head to International Nasi Lemak (#01-03 Changi Village Food Centre). Ponggol Nasi Lemak (956 Upper Serangoon Road, opens till 2am) is a late-night supper joint famous for a wide variety of side dishes, especially its big, juicy drumsticks.
In The West
Chong Pang Nasi Lemak (447 Sembawang Road, opens till 7am) has been serving platefuls of goodness since 1973, and it’s clear that their popularity has not waned one bit due to the snaking queues that form outside their stall almost daily. Boon Lay Power Nasi Lemak (#01-06 Boon Lay Place Market and Food Centre, opens till 2am) is easy on the wallet, and their soft, chewy rice will keep you coming back for more. No. 1 Adam’s Nasi Lemak (#01-01 Adam Road Food Centre, closed Tuesdays) and Selara Rasa Nasi Lemak (#01-02 Adam Road Food Centre, opens till 10pm) both offer value-for-money meals that do not compromise on quality.
Keen on whipping up a plate of nasi lemak in your kitchen? Check out our recipe now and get cracking!
All images were contributed by the talented Nicola McMahon of Bright Star Photography.
Read more about Singapore’s local cuisine at www.YourSingapore.com.