If you're a seafood lover, then you must try the famous cold crab dish in Singapore.
Cold crab is a traditional Teochew dish that has become a popular delicacy in Singapore.
It is a refreshing and flavourful dish that is perfect for the hot and humid climate of Singapore.
Cold crab is typically served with a dipping sauce made of vinegar, ginger, and sugar.
The crab is served cold, which enhances its natural sweetness and gives it a unique texture.
The dish is often served with other Teochew dishes such as braised duck, steamed pomfret, and yam ring.
Key Takeaways
- Cold crab is a traditional Teochew dish that has become a popular delicacy in Singapore.
- The dish is served cold and is typically accompanied by a dipping sauce made of vinegar, ginger, and sugar.
- Cold crab is often served with other Teochew dishes such as braised duck, steamed pomfret, and yam ring.
Exploring Cold Crab in Singapore
If you're a seafood lover, you must try Singapore's famous dish - the Teochew Cold Crab.
This authentic dish is a must-try for anyone visiting Singapore. Here are some things you should know before you indulge in this delicacy.
The Teochew Connection
Teochew cuisine is a unique blend of Chinese and Southeast Asian influences.
The cuisine is known for its light and fragrant dishes, which are often made with seafood.
The Teochew Cold Crab is a dish that is native to the Teochew region of China and has been adapted to suit the Singaporean palate.
Popular Cold Crab Dishes
The Teochew Cold Crab is a dish that is typically served cold, as the name suggests.
The crab is usually marinated in a blend of spices, vinegar, and sugar, which gives it a unique tart and sweet flavour.
Some restaurants also serve a Teochew Steamed Pomfret dish, which is another popular Teochew seafood dish.
Where to Savour the Delicacy
There are many restaurants in Singapore that serve Teochew Cold Crab, but some of the best places to savour this dish include Lee Do Restaurant in Rangoon Road and Guan Hin Teochew Restaurant in Tiong Bahru.
It is advisable to make reservations in advance, as these restaurants tend to get busy.
Dining Experience
When you order the Teochew Cold Crab, you can expect to be served a whole crab that has been cracked open and served on a bed of ice.
The meat is tender and juicy, with a unique flavour that is hard to describe.
The dish is often served with complementary Teochew specialties, such as Oyster Omelette or Orh Nee (yam paste).
Complementary Teochew Specialties
Apart from the Teochew Cold Crab, there are many other Teochew specialties that you can try.
These include Pork Trotter in Vinegar, Red Wine Chicken Soup, Fragrant Seafood Soup, and Braised Goose in Lor (a type of soy sauce).
Most restaurants also serve a variety of signature sides, such as GOR (glutinous rice), and Gingko Nuts in Coconut Milk.
Beverage Pairings
The Teochew Cold Crab is best paired with Chinese wine, which complements the tart and sweet flavours of the dish.
If you prefer something non-alcoholic, you can try a refreshing glass of lime juice or lemon tea.
Festive Teochew Treats
If you're visiting Singapore during the Chinese New Year, you can also try the Teochew-style Yusheng, which is a festive salad that is tossed for good luck.
This dish is made with a variety of ingredients, such as raw fish, shredded vegetables, and crackers.
Understanding the Culinary Heritage
If you're looking to explore the rich culinary heritage of Singapore, you cannot miss out on the cold crab.
This dish is an authentic and traditional Teochew cuisine that has been preserved by the community for generations.
Teochew Culinary Practices
Teochew cuisine is known for its emphasis on fresh ingredients and simple cooking techniques that bring out the natural flavours of the food.
This is evident in the preparation of cold crab, where the crab is steamed and then served cold with a dipping sauce made from vinegar, ginger, and sugar.
The Legacy of Teochew Restaurants
Teochew restaurants have played a significant role in preserving the culinary heritage of Singapore.
Lee Do Restaurant, established in 1955, is one such restaurant that has been serving authentic Teochew cuisine for over six decades.
Their commitment to quality and service has made them a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
Influence on Singaporean Cuisine
Teochew cuisine has had a significant influence on Singaporean cuisine, with many popular dishes such as bak kut teh and oyster omelette originating from Teochew cuisine.
The cold crab is a testament to the enduring legacy of Teochew cuisine in Singapore.
Preservation of Traditional Recipes
The preservation of traditional recipes is crucial in maintaining the authenticity of Teochew cuisine.
Many Teochew restaurants in Singapore continue to serve traditional dishes such as cold crab, ensuring that the culinary heritage of the community is not lost.
Modern Interpretations
While traditional dishes are still popular, there has been a rise in contemporary Teochew cuisine that incorporates innovation and creativity.
Some restaurants have started to offer modern interpretations of cold crab, such as adding new flavours to the dipping sauce or presenting the dish in a unique way.
Cultural Significance
Teochew cuisine holds significant cultural significance for the Teochew community in Singapore and beyond.
It is a way for the community to connect with their heritage and share their culture with others.
Teochew Food Beyond Singapore
Teochew cuisine has a global diaspora, with Teochew communities around the world preserving their culinary heritage.
Cold crab is just one example of the many delicious dishes that Teochew cuisine has to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the best Teochew cold crab in Singapore?
If you're looking for the best Teochew cold crab in Singapore, you can try visiting restaurants like Roland Restaurant, Ah Hoi's Kitchen, or Jumbo Seafood.
These places are known for their delicious cold crab dishes.
How much does a serving of cold crab usually cost in Singapore?
The price of cold crab in Singapore can vary depending on the restaurant you visit.
On average, a serving of cold crab can cost anywhere from SGD 50 to SGD 100. However, some restaurants may charge more or less than this amount.
Are there any recommended places for cold crab delivery in Singapore?
Yes, there are several places that offer cold crab delivery in Singapore.
You can try ordering from restaurants like Jumbo Seafood, No Signboard Seafood, or Mellben Seafood.
These places offer delivery services and are known for their quality cold crab dishes.
Which restaurants are known for their cold crab dishes in Singapore?
There are several restaurants in Singapore that are known for their cold crab dishes.
Some of the most popular ones include Roland Restaurant, Ah Hoi's Kitchen, Jumbo Seafood, and No Signboard Seafood.
These places are known for their delicious and authentic cold crab dishes.
Can you suggest a traditional Teochew cold crab recipe?
If you're looking for a traditional Teochew cold crab recipe, you can try this one:
Ingredients:
- 1 kg fresh crab
- 1 tbsp salt
- 2 tbsp white vinegar
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 2 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tbsp chopped garlic
- 1 tbsp chopped ginger
- 2 red chillies, chopped
- 1 spring onion, chopped
- 1 cup water
Directions:
- Clean the crab and remove the shell. Cut the crab into pieces and set aside.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the salt and vinegar. Rub this mixture onto the crab pieces and let it sit for 5 minutes.
- In a wok or pan, heat up the sesame oil and stir-fry the garlic, ginger, and chillies until fragrant.
- Add the crab pieces to the wok and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
- Add the soy sauce, sugar, and water to the wok and stir-fry until the crab is fully cooked.
- Garnish with spring onions and serve.
What should I look for when choosing a place to enjoy cold crab in Singapore?
When choosing a place to enjoy cold crab in Singapore, it's important to consider the restaurant's reputation, the quality of the ingredients used, and the price of the dish.
You can also read reviews from other customers to get an idea of the restaurant's service and overall dining experience.