If you’re looking for a hearty and comforting meal in Singapore, claypot rice is definitely worth trying. This traditional dish is cooked in a claypot over charcoal, resulting in a deliciously crispy layer of rice at the bottom and tender meat or vegetables on top. Claypot rice is a favourite among locals and tourists alike, and it’s not hard to see why.
The art of claypot rice lies in achieving the perfect balance of textures and flavours. The rice needs to be cooked just right, with the right amount of moisture to prevent it from becoming too dry or too sticky. The meat or vegetables should be tender and flavourful, with a savoury sauce that seeps into the rice. And of course, the crispy layer of rice at the bottom is what makes claypot rice truly special.
If you’re wondering where to find the best claypot rice in Singapore, you’re in luck. There are plenty of restaurants and hawker stalls that serve up this delicious dish, each with their own unique twist. From Michelin-starred restaurants to humble hawker stalls, there’s something for everyone. So let’s explore some of the top claypot rice spots in Singapore and discover the love for this beloved dish.
Key Takeaways
- Claypot rice is a traditional dish in Singapore that is cooked in a claypot over charcoal.
- The perfect claypot rice requires a balance of textures and flavours, with a crispy layer of rice at the bottom.
- There are many top claypot rice spots in Singapore, each with their own unique twist on this beloved dish.
The Art of Claypot Rice
If you’re looking for a comforting and flavourful meal, claypot rice is the perfect choice. This traditional Cantonese dish is cooked slowly over a charcoal fire, allowing the ingredients to meld together and create a rich, umami flavour.
The key to making good claypot rice is in the ingredients. The rice is cooked with marinated meat, usually chicken or pork, along with Chinese sausages, mushrooms, and sometimes even seafood. Salted fish is often added for extra flavour, and dark soy sauce is used to give the dish its signature colour and aroma.
To make the dish, the ingredients are layered on top of the rice in a claypot, which is then covered and cooked over a charcoal fire. As the rice cooks, the flavours from the ingredients seep into the rice, creating a delicious and satisfying meal.
One of the best things about claypot rice is the texture. The rice at the bottom of the pot gets crispy and slightly burnt, while the rice on top stays soft and fluffy. Mixing the rice and ingredients together creates a wonderful contrast of textures.
Claypot rice is often served with chilli sauce and dark soy sauce on the side, allowing you to customise the flavour to your liking. It’s also a versatile dish, as you can add vegetables or different types of meat to suit your taste.
Some popular variations of claypot rice include lotus root pork rib soup and unagi claypot rice. The former is a hearty and comforting soup that pairs perfectly with the rice, while the latter adds a unique twist with the addition of grilled eel.
Whether you’re looking for a comforting and filling meal or just want to try something new, claypot rice is a must-try dish. It’s a perfect example of the art of Cantonese cooking, and the combination of ingredients, charcoal fire, and claypot all come together to create a truly delicious and satisfying comfort food.
Top Claypot Rice Spots in Singapore
If you’re a fan of claypot rice, Singapore is the perfect place to indulge in this fragrant and delicious dish. With so many options to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with our list of the top claypot rice spots in Singapore.
Lian He Ben Ji Claypot Rice
Located in the heart of Chinatown Complex, Lian He Ben Ji Claypot Rice is a must-visit for anyone looking for an authentic claypot rice experience. Their rice is cooked to perfection, with a crispy layer at the bottom and tender rice on top.
The chicken and Chinese sausage are juicy and flavourful, and the mushrooms add an extra depth of umami. Don’t forget to mix in some black soya sauce and oil for a burst of flavour.
New Lucky Claypot Rice
Another popular spot for claypot rice is New Lucky Claypot Rice, located in Holland Drive. Their claypot rice is cooked over charcoal, giving it a smoky flavour that pairs perfectly with the savoury chicken and Chinese sausage.
The rice is cooked to perfection, with a crispy layer at the bottom and tender rice on top. Don’t forget to try their salted egg pork ribs, which are a perfect accompaniment to the claypot rice.
Geylang Claypot Rice
Geylang Claypot Rice is a family-owned business that has been serving up delicious claypot rice for over 30 years. Their claypot rice is cooked over charcoal, giving it a smoky flavour that pairs perfectly with the savoury chicken and Chinese sausage.
The rice is cooked to perfection, with a crispy layer at the bottom and tender rice on top. Don’t forget to try their signature dish, the claypot seafood bee hoon, which is packed with flavour.
Sembawang Traditional Claypot Rice
Sembawang Traditional Claypot Rice is a hidden gem located in the northern part of Singapore. Their claypot rice is cooked over charcoal, giving it a smoky flavour that pairs perfectly with the savoury chicken and Chinese sausage.
The rice is cooked to perfection, with a crispy layer at the bottom and tender rice on top. Don’t forget to try their claypot chicken feet, which are a perfect accompaniment to the claypot rice.
Yuan Yuan Claypot Rice
Yuan Yuan Claypot Rice is a family-owned business that has been serving up delicious claypot rice for over 20 years. Their claypot rice is cooked over charcoal, giving it a smoky flavour that pairs perfectly with the savoury chicken and Chinese sausage.
The rice is cooked to perfection, with a crispy layer at the bottom and tender rice on top. Don’t forget to try their signature dish, the claypot seafood tofu, which is packed with flavour.
Zhao Ji Claypot Rice
Zhao Ji Claypot Rice is a popular spot for claypot rice, located in the heart of Chinatown. Their claypot rice is cooked over charcoal, giving it a smoky flavour that pairs perfectly with the savoury chicken and Chinese sausage.
The rice is cooked to perfection, with a crispy layer at the bottom and tender rice on top. Don’t forget to try their claypot chicken wings, which are a perfect accompaniment to the claypot rice.
Broadway Claypot Rice
Broadway Claypot Rice is a family-owned business that has been serving up delicious claypot rice for over 40 years. Their claypot rice is cooked over charcoal, giving it a smoky flavour that pairs perfectly with the savoury chicken and Chinese sausage.
The rice is cooked to perfection, with a crispy layer at the bottom and tender rice on top. Don’t forget to try their claypot frog legs, which are a perfect accompaniment to the claypot rice.
He Ping Claypot Rice
He Ping Claypot Rice is a popular spot for claypot rice, located in the heart of Chinatown. Their claypot rice is cooked over charcoal, giving it a smoky flavour that pairs perfectly with the savoury chicken and Chinese sausage.
The rice is cooked to perfection, with a crispy layer at the bottom and tender rice on top. Don’t forget to try their claypot chicken feet, which are a perfect accompaniment to the claypot rice.
Selera Cuppage Claypot Rice
Selera Cuppage Claypot Rice is a popular spot for claypot rice, located in the heart of Orchard Road. Their claypot rice is cooked over charcoal, giving it a smoky flavour that pairs perfectly with the savoury chicken and Chinese sausage.
The rice is cooked to perfection, with a crispy layer at the bottom and tender rice on top. Don’t forget to try their claypot pork ribs, which are a perfect accompaniment to the claypot rice.
Exploring Popular Locations
If you’re looking to try some of the best claypot rice in Singapore, you’re in luck! There are plenty of popular locations where you can find this delicious dish. Here are some of the most well-known spots to check out:
Lian He Ben Ji Claypot Rice
Located in Chinatown Complex, Lian He Ben Ji Claypot Rice is a must-visit for anyone looking for an authentic claypot rice experience. This zi char stall has been around for over 40 years and is known for its fragrant and flavourful rice, tender chicken, and juicy Chinese sausages.
New Lucky Claypot Rice
Another popular spot for claypot rice is New Lucky Claypot Rice in Beach Road. This stall has been around for over 30 years and is known for its crispy rice and generous portions of chicken, Chinese sausage, and salted fish.
Holland Drive Market and Food Centre
If you’re in the Bukit Merah area, be sure to check out Holland Drive Market and Food Centre. There are several stalls that serve claypot rice here, including one that has been recommended by the Michelin Guide. The claypot rice here is cooked to perfection and is served with a variety of toppings, including pork belly, salted fish, and Chinese sausage.
ABC Brickworks Market
For those in the Clementi area, ABC Brickworks Market is a great place to find some delicious claypot rice. There are several stalls here that serve this dish, and each one has its own unique twist on the classic recipe. Some stalls use premium ingredients like abalone and scallops, while others focus on traditional flavours like chicken and Chinese sausage.
Chinatown Complex Food Centre
Chinatown Complex Food Centre is another great spot to find some of the best claypot rice in Singapore. There are several zi char stalls here that serve this dish, and each one has its own loyal following. Some popular choices include the stall that serves claypot rice with frog legs, and the one that uses premium ingredients like lobster and crab.
Whether you’re in the CBD area, Ang Mo Kio, Geylang, or Beo Crescent Market, there’s sure to be a great claypot rice stall nearby. So why not explore some of these popular locations and discover your new favourite dish?
Delving into Ingredients
When it comes to claypot rice, the ingredients used can make or break the dish. The combination of rice, meat, and vegetables is what gives the dish its unique flavour and texture. Here’s what you can expect to find in a typical claypot rice dish:
Chicken
Chicken is one of the most popular meats used in claypot rice dishes. It is usually diced into small chunks and marinated with soy sauce, sesame oil, and other spices. The chicken is then cooked in the claypot with the rice, allowing the flavours to meld together.
Pork
Pork is another popular meat used in claypot rice dishes. Pork belly is often used, as it is fatty and adds a lot of flavour to the dish. The pork is usually sliced into thin pieces and marinated with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and other spices. It is then cooked in the claypot with the rice, giving the dish a rich and savoury flavour.
Chinese Sausage
Chinese sausage, also known as lap cheong, is a type of cured sausage that is commonly used in Chinese cuisine. It is often sliced and added to claypot rice dishes, giving the dish a sweet and savoury flavour. The sausage is usually cooked with the rice, allowing the flavours to infuse together.
Mackerel Fish
Mackerel fish is a popular ingredient in claypot rice dishes in Singapore. It is often used in seafood claypot rice dishes, along with prawns, squid, and other seafood. The fish is usually cooked in the claypot with the rice, giving the dish a unique and delicious flavour.
Vegetables
Vegetables such as carrots, mushrooms, and peas are often added to claypot rice dishes, adding a pop of colour and nutrition to the dish. They are usually cooked with the rice and meat, allowing the flavours to mix together.
Overall, the ingredients used in claypot rice dishes are what make them so delicious and unique. From the tender chunks of chicken to the savoury pork belly and sweet Chinese sausage, each ingredient adds its own flavour and texture to the dish.
The Love for Claypot Rice
If you’re a fan of comfort food, then you know there’s nothing quite like a steaming hot bowl of claypot rice. This dish is a beloved staple in Singaporean cuisine, and it’s not hard to see why. The combination of fragrant rice, succulent meat, and savoury sauce is simply irresistible.
One of the things that makes claypot rice so special is the love that goes into making it. Each pot is carefully crafted by hand, with ingredients that have been selected for their quality and flavour. Whether you’re enjoying a bowl at a hawker centre or a Michelin-approved restaurant, you can taste the passion that goes into every bite.
Of course, part of the charm of claypot rice is the experience of eating it. There’s something magical about sitting down with a group of friends or family, sharing a steaming hot pot of rice, and digging in with your chopsticks. And while the queues at some of the most popular claypot rice spots can be long, the wait is always worth it for that first delicious bite.
If you’re travelling to Singapore and looking to try some of the best claypot rice in the city, there are a few spots you won’t want to miss. New Lucky Claypot Rice is a must-visit for any foodie, with its Michelin Bib Gourmand award and signature Wu Wei Rice that combines chicken and lup cheong. Yuan Yuan Claypot Rice is another favourite, known for its mixed rice with greens and value-for-money services.
No matter where you go for your claypot rice fix, one thing is for sure: this dish is a labour of love, and it’s a true testament to the culinary traditions and flavours of Singapore.
Understanding Waiting Times
When it comes to enjoying a delicious claypot rice meal in Singapore, one thing you need to be prepared for is waiting times. With so many popular claypot rice stalls in the city, it’s not uncommon to experience long queues and wait times. But don’t worry, with a little bit of patience and preparation, you can enjoy your meal without any stress.
Here are a few tips to help you understand waiting times when it comes to ordering claypot rice in Singapore:
Call Ahead
If you know which claypot rice stall you want to visit, it’s always a good idea to call ahead and place your order. This can help you avoid long wait times and ensure that your meal is ready when you arrive. Some stalls even offer online ordering, so you can place your order from the comfort of your own home.
Be Prepared to Wait
Even if you call ahead, there may still be a wait time when you arrive at the stall. This is especially true during peak hours, such as lunchtime and dinner time. Be prepared to wait up to an hour or more for your meal, especially if you’re visiting a popular stall.
Bring Cash
Many claypot rice stalls in Singapore only accept cash, so be sure to bring enough money with you to pay for your meal. Some stalls may also have a minimum order amount, so be sure to check before you place your order.
Share with Friends
If you’re dining with a group of friends, consider sharing a larger portion of claypot rice. This can help you save money and reduce your wait time, as larger portions are often cooked more quickly than smaller portions.
Enjoy the Experience
Finally, remember that waiting for your claypot rice is all part of the experience. Take the time to chat with your friends, people-watch, or simply enjoy the atmosphere of the stall. Before you know it, your delicious meal will be ready for you to enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the most delicious claypot rice in Singapore?
Singapore is home to many excellent claypot rice restaurants, but some of the most popular ones include Lian He Ben Ji Claypot Rice in Chinatown Complex, Geylang Claypot Rice in Geylang, and New Lucky Claypot Rice in Holland Drive. These restaurants are known for their delicious claypot rice dishes that are cooked to perfection, with tender meat and flavourful rice.
How does Broadway Claypot Rice compare to other claypot rice restaurants in Singapore?
Broadway Claypot Rice is one of the popular claypot rice restaurants in Singapore, known for its generous portions and delicious flavours. While it may not be as famous as some of the other restaurants, it has its own unique charm and loyal customer base. If you’re looking for a satisfying and affordable claypot rice meal, Broadway Claypot Rice is definitely worth a try.
What are some must-try claypot rice dishes in Singapore?
Some of the must-try claypot rice dishes in Singapore include the classic chicken claypot rice, which is made with marinated chicken and Chinese sausage, and the seafood claypot rice, which is packed with prawns, squid, and fish. For those who prefer vegetarian options, the mushroom claypot rice is a delicious choice.
Is Sembawang Traditional Claypot Rice halal-certified?
Yes, Sembawang Traditional Claypot Rice is halal-certified, making it a great option for Muslim diners looking for delicious claypot rice dishes.
Can you recommend a good claypot rice restaurant near Clementi?
If you’re in the Clementi area, one of the best claypot rice restaurants to try is Shi Wei Xian Claypot Rice. This restaurant is known for its generous portions and delicious flavours, and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
What makes claypot rice such a special and beloved dish in Singapore?
Claypot rice is a beloved dish in Singapore because of its unique texture and flavour. The rice is cooked in a claypot, which gives it a crispy bottom and a fluffy top, while the meat and vegetables are cooked together with the rice, infusing it with their delicious flavours. The result is a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion.