PUBLISHED August 29th, 2014 10:00 pm | UPDATED May 19th, 2017 04:09 pm
To say that food is the core of the Singaporean culture would be an understatement in itself. Indeed, our folk are massive foodies; we have memorised every possible food haunt by heart from the best carrot cake to the most savoury chill crab. But what happens when a true blue Singaporean takes a night off and becomes the tourist instead? That is exactly the experience I opt for when I attend a gathering put together by BonAppetour.
Granted as a Westie, having to go all the way to Sengkang is less than enticing with my initial reaction being why, followed by the bigger how. But my doubts dissipate instantly once I meet the other exceedingly pleasant guests – an Indonesian, a Malaysian and a Singaporean PR. With the guide of Google Maps that is more misleading than anything else, we get lost for a bit.
When we do finally arrive at the flat, we meet the hosts of the night’s dinner: a down-to-earth Singaporean couple (Yvette and husband) who had met during freshman orientation camp back in university. Yes, such romance novel stories actually exist in real life. Their home is aesthetically pleasing with a clean and crisp outlook, showcasing the couple’s keen eye for design. To my own surprise, despite the initial awkwardness, conversation begins to flow with ease.
The dinner is a healthy Singaporean Chinese feast (free from preservatives!) with a wide spread of dishes. Special mention goes to the stellar chicken dish that is a special recipe passed down from Yvette’s mother.
MENU FOR THE NIGHT
- Greens with braised mushrooms (V)
- Stirfry tricolour veggie with mushroom (V)
- Tomato omelette (V)
- Quick fry fresh tiger prawns in chilli & tomato sauce
- Chicken with celery and goji berry
- Corn & celery clear soup (V)
- Dessert: Cheng Tng
Each dish complements the other and is incredibly nutritious yet retaining its savouriness. My personal favourite is the tomato omelette but for non-vegetarians, I reckon the chicken dish remains the unrivalled winner (or so I hear).
On retrospect, the intimate setting of their home coupled with the thoughtful dishes certainly made for a pleasant dining experience. Such a warm blend of strangers with a shared love for food and conversation cannot be replicated elsewhere. Despite my initial reservations, my first experience with BonAppetour was a splendid one and I hope to continue attending such gatherings or even try out hosting myself (though I’m probably not the best cook).
For readers keen on a BonAppetour experience, please head onto their website for more information.
Hyperlink: http://www.bonappetour.com
By Prasanthi Ram
Check out Specialist Grocers that Deliver in Singapore as well!