Singapore’s hawker centres are a true paradise for food lovers, where the streets sizzle with some of the best deep-fried foods. Whether you’re after something sweet or savoury, these golden, crispy delights capture the vibrant flavours of the island.
From fried chicken to local gems like fried rice balls, there’s a crispy bite for everyone. Let’s dive into some must-try deep-fried wonders at Singapore’s famous hawker centres.
Before we get started, check out our guide on how to run a successful restaurant to sharpen your food industry skills. With the right approach, you could easily turn these deep-fried delights into best-sellers at your own restaurant!
Deep-Fried Delights to Try
Singapore’s hawker centres are heaven for fried food fans. If you’re searching for the best deep-fried snacks, here’s where to start:
Goreng Pisang (Fried Banana)
A sweet favourite, Goreng Pisang is made by coating bananas in a light batter and frying until golden and crispy. The soft banana inside contrasts with the crunchy outside, making it the perfect treat after wandering around the stalls.
Curry Puffs
Imagine biting into something golden and flaky, filled with curried potatoes and meat—that’s a curry puff! Packed with flavour, whether you choose chicken or veggie, these are the perfect snack for exploring a hawker centre.
Fried Carrot Cake
Unlike what the name suggests, this isn’t dessert. Made from radish cakes stir-fried with soy sauce and eggs, it is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside—a savoury classic.
Har Cheong Gai (Prawn Paste Fried Chicken Wings)
These aren’t your usual fried chicken wings. Marinated in prawn paste, they’re crispy and juicy with an umami kick that’s hard to resist. Paired with a chilli dip, they’re perfect for any afternoon snack craving.
Fried Cempedak
This tropical fruit is deep-fried in batter, offering a crunchy shell with a sweet, fragrant centre. If you like a snack with a touch of sweetness, this is the one to try.
You Tiao (Chinese Fried Dough Stick)
You Tiao is a long, crunchy dough stick fried until golden brown. It’s a breakfast classic, often served with soy milk or congee. The crispy texture is so satisfying that it’s hard to stop at just one.
Fried Oyster Omelette (Orh Luak)
This dish mixes oysters with a crispy, starchy batter, fried until it’s both crunchy and chewy. Squeeze some lemon juice on top and dip it in chilli sauce for an extra burst of flavour. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience!
Ngoh Hiang (Five-Spice Meat Rolls)
Seasoned with five-spice powder, these meat rolls are wrapped, breaded, and deep-fried to a perfect crisp. The outside is crunchy, while the inside stays juicy and full of flavour. They’re a must-try for anyone who loves bold, fragrant spices.
Fried Spring Rolls (Popiah Goreng)
These spring rolls are crispy, light, and stuffed with veggies and meat. They’re popular as snacks or side dishes, and dipping them in soy sauce only makes them better. Simple, yet so tasty.
Fried Hokkien Mee
While not entirely deep-fried, Fried Hokkien Mee is a must-try. Stir-fried in prawn broth, it’s topped with fried squid and crispy lard bits for that extra crunch. The soft noodles pair perfectly with the crunchy batter bits that add a delightful texture.
French Fries with a Singapore Twist
Singapore’s take on French fries includes creative twists like salted egg yolk sauce or spicy sambal. The crispy fries mixed with bold flavours elevate this simple snack to something truly special.
Korean Fried Chicken (Local Versions)
Hawker centres love putting a local spin on global dishes. Singapore’s version of Korean fried chicken mixes gochujang with soy sauce and chilli, giving the fried chicken a crunchy, flavour-packed bite.
Deep-Fried Mars Bar
If you’re craving indulgence, the deep-fried Mars bar is for you. This gooey, chocolatey treat is fried to perfection, with a crisp outer shell and a melted chocolate centre—ideal for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Corn Fritters
Light and crispy corn fritters are a popular snack made by deep-frying sweet corn in a golden batter. The crunchy texture makes them a delightful option as you explore the hawker stalls.
Fried Green Tomatoes
Though rare, some stalls serve fried green tomatoes. Coated in batter and fried until crispy, these tangy tomatoes pair wonderfully with a dip of tartar sauce for a crunchy, refreshing bite.
Sicilian Arancini (Fried Rice Balls)
These deep-fried rice balls, known as Sicilian arancini, are stuffed with cheese and meat before being fried to golden perfection. While not traditionally Singaporean, local adaptations with spicy fillings make them a fun snack to try.
The Art of Deep Frying at Hawker Centres
What makes hawker-centre fried food so good? It’s all in the technique. Vendors use a combination of high-quality oils and carefully controlled temperatures to create a crispy exterior and tender interior.
A light batter seals in moisture, while some hawkers add a splash of sparkling water to make the coating extra light. The perfect blend of frying skills and local flavours creates a crispy, crunchy bite every time.
But that’s not all! The key to deep fry foods perfectly is having the right equipment. A high-quality commercial deep fryer helps you keep the oil at the perfect temperature for that irresistible golden crunch.
Where to Find the Best Deep-Fried Food
Here are a few must-visit hawker stalls to grab the best deep-fried dishes in Singapore:
- Maxwell Food Centre: A great spot for Fried Hokkien Mee and deep-fried chicken wings.
- Old Airport Road Food Centre: Known for sweet, deep-fried treats like Goreng Pisang.
- Chomp Chomp Food Centre: Try the local twist on Korean fried chicken here.
Running your own food business? Don’t forget to use social media to show off your signature deep-fried recipes!
Celebrating Singapore’s Deep-Fried Street Food Scene
From crispy chicken wings to indulgent Mars bars, Singapore’s hawker centres offer an incredible variety of deep-fried treats that will leave you wanting more. The perfect frying techniques, creative flavours, and local ingredients make these crispy snacks a must-try on any food adventure in Singapore.
Frequently Asked Questions
What food is best deep-fried?
Chicken wings, battered fish, and vegetables are all fantastic when deep-fried. Even cheese can be delicious—like deep-fried mozzarella sticks! The trick is using a light batter and frying in hot oil for that golden crunch.
What is the best-fried food in the world?
Fried chicken often tops the list globally, thanks to its juicy meat and crispy batter. Tempura, fish and chips, and fried doughnuts are also popular. It’s all about that perfect balance of crunch and flavour.
What is the best meat to deep fry?
Chicken is the go-to. It has a mild flavour and stays juicy while getting a deliciously crispy exterior. Other meats like pork can also be deep-fried, but chicken remains a favourite.
Can I make hawker-style deep-fried recipes at home?
Yes! With a deep fryer and basic ingredients, you can make easy deep-fried recipes at home. Coat vegetables, fish, or meat in wheat flour batter and fry in hot vegetable oil. Whether it’s a snack or a side dish, you’ll get the perfect crunch with a steady oil temperature.
What is the healthiest thing to deep fry in?
Vegetable oil is a good option for healthier deep frying. It has a high smoke point and is lower in saturated fat. While deep-frying isn’t the healthiest cooking method, oils like sunflower or canola offer a slightly better option due to their mild flavour and fat profile.
