Hainanese curry rice facts for kids
Hainanese curry rice in Singapore
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| Course | Main course |
|---|---|
| Place of origin | Singapore |
| Created by | Chinese Singaporeans |
| Serving temperature | Hot |
| Main ingredients | Steamed white rice smothered in a mess of curries and braised gravy |
Hainanese curry rice is a super tasty dish from Singapore! Imagine fluffy white rice covered in lots of yummy curries and rich gravy. It usually comes with delicious sides like curry chicken, crispy pork chop, soft chap chye (which is braised cabbage), and tender kong bak (braised pork). Even though it's called 'Hainanese,' this dish actually started in Singapore, not in Hainan, China.
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The Story of Hainanese Curry Rice
Hainanese curry rice first came about when Singapore was under British rule. It was created by people from Hainan, an island in China, who had moved to Singapore. Many Hainanese people worked as chefs for British families and rich Peranakan families (who are descendants of early Chinese immigrants).
They mixed different cooking styles to create this dish. For example, the pork chop idea came from British cuisine. Other parts, like the curry chicken and chap chye, were inspired by Peranakan cuisine. These ideas were then used to make the unique Hainanese curry rice we know today. One very famous place that sells Hainanese curry rice, called Loo's, opened way back in 1946!
What's in Hainanese Curry Rice?
The Rice Base
Usually, this dish starts with a big serving of warm, steamed white rice. It's the perfect base for all the delicious sauces. Lately, some places have also started offering brown rice as an option, which is a healthier choice.
The Curry Sauce
The curry used in Hainanese curry rice is special. It's usually milder than curries from places like India, so it's not too spicy. It's also a bit thicker and 'gloopier,' which means it's nice and saucy, perfect for soaking into the rice.
