What does carrot cake mean to Singaporeans?
Carrot cake, a delightful and indulgent treat, has been a beloved dessert in many parts of the world. In Singapore, it has gained immense popularity and has become a staple in the local dessert scene. This delectable dessert has a fascinating history and offers a variety of flavours and styles to cater to every palate. Join us on a journey to explore Singapore's top ten carrot cake destinations that are guaranteed to blow your mind!
Carrot cake, more commonly known as "chai tow kway" in Singapore, has its roots in traditional Chinese cuisine. However, it has evolved over time to become a unique and beloved local dish. Traditionally made from shredded white radish (commonly known as "white carrot") and rice flour batter, this savoury cake is stir-fried with eggs, preserved radish, garlic, and other flavorful ingredients. It is often garnished with spring onions and served with a tangy chilli sauce, offering a perfect balance of sweet, savoury, and spicy flavours.
As Singaporeans, we have embraced carrot cake as more than just a delectable treat. It is an integral part of our food culture, symbolizing warmth, familiarity, and the joy of shared meals with loved ones. Whether we prefer the traditional flavours that have been passed down through generations or the bold and daring innovations that showcase our culinary prowess, these carrot cake destinations provide us with a chance to reconnect with our roots and savour the distinct tastes that remind us of home.
Without further ado, let's dive into Singapore's top ten carrot cake destinations, each with its own unique selling points:
1. Newton Carrot Cake (Hawker Centre)
Address: Newton Food Centre, 500 Clemenceau Avenue North, Singapore 229495
Opening Hours: 5:00 PM - 2:00 AM (Closed on Mondays)
Price Range: SGD 4 - SGD 8
Newton Carrot Cake is a legendary stall known for its generous portion sizes and aromatic flavours. Their carrot cake is stir-fried to perfection, delivering a delightful combination of crispy edges and soft, chewy interiors. The secret lies in their special blend of spices, which elevates the taste to new heights.
2. Store 01-53 Carrot Cake (Hawker Centre)
Address: Maxwell Food Centre, 1 Kadayanallur Street, Singapore 069184
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Price Range: SGD 3 - SGD 6
Despite not having a name, this carrot cake stall is an institution in Singapore, with a reputation for maintaining the traditional flavours of this beloved dish. Their carrot cake is fried with precision, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavours and textures. The highlight is their silky smooth “black” carrot cake, which simply melts in your mouth.
3. Carrot Cake @ Chomp Chomp(Hawker Centre)
Address: Chomp Chomp Food Centre, 20 Kensington Park Road, Singapore 557269
Opening Hours: 5:30 PM - 12:00 AM
Price Range: SGD 3 - SGD 4
This Carrot Cake stall is a hidden gem tucked away in the bustling Chomp Chomp Food Centre. Their rendition of carrot cake is slightly sweeter, appealing to those with a preference for a milder flavour profile. The cakes are pan-fried to perfection, boasting a delightful golden hue and a delightful balance of sweetness and umami.
4. Tiong Bahru Kampong Carrot Cake (Hawker Centre)
Address: 30 Seng Poh Rd, #02-53, Singapore 168898
Opening Hours: 6:30 AM - 2:00 PM
Price Range: SGD 3 - SGD 5
Old School Carrot Cake offers a modern twist on the classic dish, attracting both traditionalists and adventurous foodies. Their unique fusion flavours incorporate elements such as salted egg yolk and truffle oil, taking carrot cake to a whole new level of decadence. The nostalgic ambience of the eatery adds an extra charm to the dining experience.
5. Song Zhou Carrot Cake (Hawker Centre)
Address: Bedok Interchange Food Centre, 207 New Upper Changi Road, Singapore 460207
Opening Hours: 6:30 AM - 8:00 PM
Price Range: SGD 3.50 - SGD 5.50
Song Zhou Carrot Cake is a go-to spot for early risers in search of a satisfying breakfast. Their carrot cake is renowned for its generous portions and bold flavours. It features a delightful smoky aroma from skilful wok-frying, creating a delectable crust on the outside and a tender interior that will leave you craving for more.
6. Le Yi Shi Fried Carrot Cake(Hawker Centre)
Address: 93 Lor 4 Toa Payoh, #01-38, Singapore 310093
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM - 1:30 PM (Closed on Mondays and Fridays)
Price Range: SGD 3 - SGD 5
Le Yi Shi Fried Carrot Cake takes carrot cake to the next level by offering an extensive menu with various flavour options. From classic carrot cake with a twist to unique creations like matcha-infused carrot cake, they cater to different taste preferences. Their cakes are impeccably moist, and the accompanying sauces and toppings add an extra burst of flavour.
7. 618 Sim Carrot Cake (Hawker Centre)
Address: 618 Yishun Ring Rd, Singapore 760618
Delivery Hours: 6:30 AM - 1:30 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)
Price Range: SGD 3 - SGD 6
The carrot cake at 618 Sim Carrot Cake ($3) is really unique. On this plate, the chye poh is actually placed on the side. There is a nice crunch to the preserved radish, and it is not overly salty. The dish is prepared without pork or lard. The carrot cake with prawns ($4.50) was another treat to try. Combined with carrot cake and chives, the prawns were diced into small pieces and fried.
8. Guan Kee Fried Carrot Cake (Hawker Centre)
Address: Amoy Street Food Centre, 7 Maxwell Road, Singapore 069111
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM - 2:00 PM (Closed on Sundays)
Price Range: SGD 5 - SGD 10
Guan Kee Fried Carrot Cake offers a nostalgic taste of traditional carrot cake that transports you back in time. Their recipe has been passed down through generations, resulting in a timeless flavour that locals adore. Each cake is meticulously fried to achieve the perfect balance of crispiness and tenderness.
9. Good Spice Carrot Cake (Hawker Centre)
Address: 41A Cambridge Rd, #01-20, Singapore 211041
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM - 1:00 PM (Closed on Tuesday and Wednesday)
Price Range: SGD 2 - SGD 5
For carrot cake lovers, the Good Spice Carrot Cake is a hidden gem. A unique and flavorful experience awaits you at this hawker stall. This carrot cake is expertly fried to achieve the perfect balance of crispy edges and a moist interior. There's something special about Good Spice Carrot Cake because it's packed with aromatic spices and seasonings that enhance the flavours.
10. 01-26 Carrot Cake Stall (Hawker Centre)
Address: Old Airport Road Food Centre, 51 Old Airport Road, Singapore 390051
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)
Price Range: SGD 3 - SGD 5
This carrot cake stall is a hidden gem at Old Airport Road Food Centre, known for its wallet-friendly prices and delightful carrot cakes. Their cakes are exceptionally fluffy, and the stall offers a variety of sauce options to customize your dish. Whether you prefer a milder or spicier flavour, Carrot Kingdom has got you covered.
*Note: Opening hours and prices are subject to change. It is advisable to check the respective eateries' websites or social media for the latest information.
Conclusion
So, are you ready to try the delicious food? Singapore's carrot cake scene is a testament to our nation's rich and diverse culinary tapestry. From traditional renditions that pay homage to our culinary heritage to innovative twists that showcase our creativity, there is a plethora of carrot cake options that cater to every Singaporean's discerning taste buds. Whether enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or any time of the day, carrot cake holds a special place in our hearts and palates, offering a delightful medley of sweet, savoury, and spicy flavours that evoke a sense of comfort and nostalgia.
The top ten carrot cake destinations highlighted in this article are a true reflection of the best that Singapore has to offer. From iconic hawker stalls that have been serving up their legendary carrot cakes for generations to modern establishments that infuse new dimensions into this classic dish, each place possesses its own unique selling point and distinctive charm. Whether it's the generous portions that leave us fully satisfied, the velvety-smooth texture of the radish cake or the fusion flavours that excite our taste buds, these culinary gems are sure to astound and captivate us with their exceptional carrot cake creations.
Carrot cake holds a special place in the hearts of Singaporeans as a comfort food that brings back cherished memories of family gatherings, hawker centre feasts, and carefree childhood days. It is a dish that transcends boundaries and unites us in our shared love for good food. Whether we choose the traditional flavours that transport us to simpler times or the inventive renditions that reflect our ever-evolving food scene, these carrot cake destinations invite us on a gastronomic adventure that celebrates the vibrant and diverse flavours of Singapore.
If you would like to explore more than just carrot cakes, we have a private food and cultural tour package you can check out here, small group Michelin and night food tours here and here respectively!
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