Singapore Indian Vegetarian Food

I used to be a “carnivore”. Though still a “carnivore”, but my experience on Singapore Indian vegetarian food made me a part-time “herbivore”. I managed to convince my mouth and stomach to take in vegetarian food.

I remembered while I was conducting trainings to my regional counterparts 5 to 6 years ago, Vijay, a trainee from India, a strict vegetarian, was giving me a nightmare trying to find the right food for him. He would not eat anything, not salad or even chinese or western vegetarian food…except bread. Playing host, I had to look for the right Indian vegetarian restaurant, hoping that he would not be starved. Being a meat-eater, it was a tough call as I had completely no idea of the whereabouts of pure Indian vegetarian restaurants; moreover, the internet wasn’t so helpful back then.

Buffet at Annalakshmi

Fortunately, an Indian colleague, Thiru, recommended Annalakshmi restaurant. As vegetarian didn’t sound appealing to me, I had my pre-dinner meal before dinner!

Surprise! Surprise! I think I put on some weight after that meal in Annalakshmi!

I never had expected Singapore Indian vegetarian food to be so delicious. My perception completely changed. Vijay was practically rubbing his inflated stomach while exiting the restaurant, saying “wow, *burp, amazing food, thanks…”

Indian vegetarian foods are very healthy food according to Vijay. He explained to me with great enthusiasm while gulping his food as though he had not eaten for months. Indian vegetarian foods are rich in whole grains, which contain protein, dietary fiber, vitamins and minerals. Whole grains could help reduce the risk of colon cancer, and cancers of the stomach and mouth.

He believes that the Singapore Indian vegetarian food are typically cook with olive oil or canola oil, which resulted in a low fat, low calories, and heart friendly delicacy. Moreover, the spices used in Indian vegetarian food help to protect one against cancer, heart disease, arthritis and even Alzheimer’s disease.

It was then and there that I became exploratory with Indian vegetarian food.

Naan and Chapati

The Singapore Indian vegetarian food offers wide varieties. From North India to South India; from authentic to localized.

Originated from Northern India, the Naan is a popular choice here. Often cooked in a tandoor (clay oven), it is a flatbread made of white flour leavened with yeast. Normally long oval shape, each piece is slightly larger than the size of an adult palm – it is quite filling. I recommend starting with just 2 pieces unless you have a big stomach.

Chapati, is another popular Indian vegetarian dish in Singapore. It is made from whole grain durum wheat mixed with water and salt, and served after pan fried.

Typical Indian Vegetarian Meal

A typical Indian vegetarian meal will normally consist of a few pieces of Naan, or Chapati, served with vegetable curry known as Dhaal, and other vegetable dishes, like Aloo Gobi Masala, Baigan Bharta, Chana Masala, Hara Pulao or Rajma mainly made from potatoes, ladies fingers, brinjal or long beans. You can easily find these dishes in Singapore food courts and restaurants.

Popular Southern India dish called Iddly (or Idli, or Idly) is also highly recommended. It is a white round steamed savory cake, made from fermented black lentils and rice. Usually served with chutney, sambar, or other vegetable dishes, it is a common breakfast and snack in Singapore.

Masala Dosai

My personal favorite Singapore Indian vegetarian food would be the Masala Dosai. Dosai is a wrap made from rice, split pea and black lentil blended with water. Masala Dosai is simply Dosai wrap with cooked potatoes, fried onions and spices. It is one of my regular breakfast menu selections.

Oh, one thing I must commend about Annalakshmi restaurant. There is no fixed price; it is “Eat what you Want and Give as you Feel” concept. It was setup by a non-profit organization Kalamandir in 1985, pledged to support the Indian cultural and welfare activities, including the promotion of Indian art, music and dance in Singapore. The waiters, waitresses and chefs, who are mostly voluntary staffs, serve with passionate, politeness and professionalism. The credit of its success goes to the restaurant’s philosophy that’s based on “athithi dhevo bhava” – the guest is god.

Another Indian vegetarian restaurant that is quite popular in Singapore is the Komala Villas restaurant. The only Indian Vegetarian Fast Food chain in Singapore. Offering wide range of authentic South India Food, the dishes are served on fresh banana leaf. There is also a wide array of sweet deserts from all parts of India for patrons to choose from.

Annalakshmi
133, New Bridge Road, #B1-02, Chinatown Point, Podium A, Singapore 059413
Exit E of Chinatown MRT
Phone: 65-6339 9993
Fax: 65-63370861

Annalakshmi Janatha
104, Amoy Street, Near Far East Square, Singapore 069924
Near Tanjong Pagar or Raffles Place MRT
Phone:65- 6223 0809
www.annalakshmi.com.sg

Komala Vilas Restaurant
76 / 78 Serangoon Road, Singapore 217981
Tel: 65-6293 6980
Fax: 65-63929385

Branch
2 / 14 Buffalo Road, Singapore 209 723
Tel : 65- 62933664
www.komalavilas.com.sg