Imagine this scenario: You’re in Singapore and you’re planning to buy “pasalubong” or souvenirs to take home to your family and friends, but suddenly, you realize you have no idea what to buy (aside from those kitschy Merlion and Marina Bay Sands magnets). After all, what exactly is Singapore known for that can’t be found elsewhere?

Well, I’ve got bad news and good news for you. Singapore’s food scene is a mishmash of its surrounding countries, but with a Singaporean spin to it. So in terms of “can I find this elsewhere?” The answer is probably yes – especially if you’re from Malaysia or Indonesia. Having said that, if you’re not from those countries and for the sheer convenience of it, I’d recommend you purchase the following while in Singapore –

My go-to list of Singapore pasalubong:

• Irvin’s Salted Egg Chips
• Kaya Jam
• Kueh Lapis
• Pandan Chiffon Cake
• Kam’s Roast Duck

Irvin’s Salted Egg Chips

I know, WHY am I including salted egg chips? Because Irvin’s pretty much kickstarted this whole trend in Southeast Asia. I remember the days when you had to queue for a ridiculous amount of time just to get a pack, only to find out that it’s all SOLD OUT at 11AM in the morning. Gah damnit. The things we do for our salted egg cravings. Since then, a lot of other salted egg chip brands have popped up – to be honest, some of them are even better than Irvin’s. Still, I’m placing this here for the nostalgia and because this one is honest-to-goodness originated from Singapore. Also, the packaging is BEAUTIFUL – which is always a plus when you’re planning to give it away

As of this writing, you can choose between three types of salted egg goodies – the original potato chips, the fish skin, and the cassava chips. My personal preference is the potato chips. Why change what isn’t broken right? But I’ve got an equal number of friends who absolutely RAVE about the fish skin and cassava chips respectively, especially because they’re one of the few stores who do carry this product. Tough choice? Just buy them all! That’s what I do…

Where to buy: They’re available in a couple of retail malls plus the airport. For the full list, check it out here

Kaya Jam

Have you ever had kaya toast for breakfast? If you haven’t, you are missing out! So if you still have time in Singapore, add one of the following to your list of cafes to check out: Ya Kun Kaya Toast, Killiney Kopitiam, Good Morning Nanyang Café

Ok great, now that you’re a convert and want to continue this kaya toast once you’re back home, I highly recommend you purchase kaya jam! My two favorite brands are as follows:

1.       Ya Kun Kaya: This is my favorite (personal preference)! I love the strong eggy flavor, plus the occasional pandan kick. Likewise, the jam texture is so smooth and spread-able!

2.       Bengawan Solo: I love the balance of flavors here – not too sweet or eggy, but it definitely has the strongest pandan and coconut flavors coming through. The only thing I hate is the texture… It’s kinda watery, when I typically like my jam more spread-able (is this even a word?!)

Where to buy: They can be found EVERYWHERE. Here’s the full list of the respective Ya Kun Kaya and Bengawan Solo outlets

Kueh Lapis

Kueh Lapis is my go-to snack / dessert. This dish is an Indonesian delicacy, essentially a moist layered cake that’s simply oozing with butter. It’s awesome but also really deadly, so I guess I should be thankful I don’t live in Singapore/Indonesia where I can easily get my hands on this delectable butter trap. 

Some of my favorite brands are as follows (they all have their own “unique” twist to it): Bengawan Solo (most traditional), Indochili

Pandan Chiffon Cake

Pandan Chiffon Cake was recently named Singapore’s NATIONAL CAKE by CNN (who knew there was even a national cake distinction?!) Anyway, Singapore’s green and fluffy pandan chiffon cake is pretty dope. Personally, I love Bengawan Solo’s version – the cake is moist and fluffy, with a clear distinct pandan flavor. In fact, it’s Bengawan Solo’s flagship product, so trust me on this, just check it out.

Best of all – it’s a perfect gift to bring home for your grandparents. Because it’s so soft, they shouldn’t have any problems eating it. Seriously, no need for teeth in this particular endeavor!

Where to buy: Bengawan Solo outlets

Kam’s Roast Duck

So, Kam’s Roast Duck is originally from Hong Kong. But if you’re craving for roast duck, then you’ll be happy to know that you can now purchase  this delectable dish (choosing between ¼ , ½ , or 1 kilo) at Singapore’s Changi Airport JEWEL Hub! It keeps really well on the plane (assuming your flight’s less than ~6 hours), so you can enjoy it even when you’re back in your home country

See below photo? That’s a 1/2 kilo roast duck that was demolished in one serving by yours truly (and her family)!

Where to buy: Kam’s Roast SG can be found at both Pacific Plaza and Changi’s JEWEL Hub. If you’re planning to bring it home with you though – your best bet is to purchase it at the Changi JEWEL Hub

And that’s pretty much it! Let me know if you’ve got other go-to pasalubong from Singapore – I’m always eager to try out new food items (and keen to spread the love)!

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