Hwa Kee Lemon Chicken Rice!

Posted on May 10, 2023 by thetravellinggourmet

Story and photos by Dr. Michael Lim The Travelling Gourmet TM

Copyright all rights reserved

The irrepressible and indomitable Travelling Gourmet TM went to try and try...

MOST flavoursome Hwa Kee Lemon Chicken Rice at the opening of their stall at  3 Coleman St, #01-12 Peninsula Shopping Centre, Singapore 179804 on 11 May, 2023. 

I had the opportunity to taste a selection of dishes from their menu, including Hwa Kee’s signature Lemon Chicken Rice – juicy fried chicken with crispy black pepper-infused skin, drizzled with sweet, sticky and tangy lemon sauce and served with fragrant chicken rice. Lemon goes well with chcken, for example Kenny Rogers’ chicken is seasoned with lemon juice. I also get to be the first to taste their new Lemon Chicken Rice burger, a one-of-a-kind rice burger that will be unveiled at the opening. The Chicken Rice Burger has “buns” made from compressed Chicken Rice and is served with Nyonya Achar/pickle! They also serve regular Chicken Rice. What’s more, Uncle Frankie – Hwa Kee’s chef and owner was there to tell me about his Hwa Kee Lemon Chicken Rice.

Hwa Kee Lemon Chicken Rice is the rebirth of a 20-year old chicken rice hawker stall started by a Singaporean couple, Mr Frankie Yeow and his wife Mrs Jane Yeow, and supported by Accenture Song Singapore as part of its Comeback Hawker Project. Since its humble start at the Kallang Industrial area, Hwa Kee has amassed a pool of loyal followers who love their chicken rice so much, they would have it twice in one day. Mr Yeow – Hwa Kee’s main chef – pivoted from the shipping industry almost two decades ago to the F&B scene and started off as an apprentice under Leong Fook Wing, the man behind the famous Sin Kee Chicken Rice. Mr Yeow eventually perfected his own steamed chicken recipe over the years. Unwilling to rest on his laurels, Mr Yeow continued to experiment with different chicken rice recipes, inventing secret menu items such as Black Pepper Chicken Rice, Thai Sauce Chicken Rice, and Spicy Mayo Chicken Rice. But perhaps his most beloved creation is the Lemon Chicken Rice, which was a constant bestseller in his previous stalls. After much convincing from old friends and loyal customers, he has finally agreed to take it out of his secret menu and make it a flagship signature dish. With a new vision in mind and a new signature dish on the menu,

The Travelling Gourmet TM always says, “Keep calm and carry on eating!” 🙂

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Gina’s Singaporean Vadai

Posted on April 26, 2023 by thetravellinggourmet

Story and photos by Dr. Michael Lim The Travelling Gourmet TM

Copyright all rights reserved

The indomitable and irrepressible Travelling Gourmet TM goes to taste…

MOUTHWATERING Vadai! Vadai is a South Indian savoury fried fritter akin to the American donut, the Berliner and the Beignet a la Cafe du Monde in New Orleans, Louisiana I call it the “Indian Donut” Ha! Ha! Vadais even look like donuts except that the hole in the middle is smaller. Vadais are perfect as appetisers or snacks and usually served with chutneys, fresh green chillis and sambal chilli. I love Mango chutney. I also love crispy Prawn Vadais. At the exclusive Tasting with Gina, I tried Prawn, Peanut and Ikan Bilis (Anchovies), Crab and Mal Vadais. I also relished the Peanut and Ikan Bilis Vadai.The Mala vadais were not as spicy as I expected as there was only a light sprinkling of Mala spices. The Vadis were very tasty with the dips and also paired well with the lght Gina’s Brew Craft Beer which had intense Lychee notes.

On 26 April, 2023 at the launch of Gina’s Singaporean Vadai there were 3 uniquely Singaporean dips namely Salted Egg, classic Chilli Crab and rambuctious Rojak to enjoy the Vadai with. The Rojak dip was the most flavoursome while my photographer found the Salted Egg somewhat underwhelming. Gina is a very nice lady who has survived the horrible china virus pandemic when her beloved husband Jim passed on. Gina has now teamed up with her son, Daniel.

The Travelling Gourmet TM with Gina and her son Daniel

The launch also featured a bespoke beer by 1925 brewery – Gina’s Brew. The beer perfectly complements the snack with its fragrant lychee and rose flavours, offering a unique and exciting taste pairing. The Lychee comes out very well and the beer is refreshingly mild with no bitterness. The Rose is more subdued.

The Travelling Gourmet TM says: Keep calm and carry on eating Vadai!

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Somersby NEW Passionfruit and Orange Cider

Posted on April 12, 2023 by thetravellinggourmet

Story and photos by Dr. Michael Lim The Travelling Gourmet TM

Copyright all rights reserved

The irrepressible and indomitable Travelling Gourmet TM goes to taste…

MOUTHWATERING Somersby cider at Somersby Wonderful Garden! Despite its typically English sounding name, Somersby is actually from Denmark. Cider is made from apples!

Somersby Cider

Somersby cider is a brand of 4.5% alcohol by volume cider by the famous Danish brewing company Carlsberg Group. The delicious Somersby Apple Cider was first bottled during an incredible apple harvest in Denmark in the summer of 2008 and had since then evolved into a lovely range of fruity flavours. From classic apple to juicy pear, refreshing watermelon, and the new zangy (Zesty and Tangy)  combination of passionfruit and orange. This refreshingly crisp flavour pairs well with Lobster, Scallops and Salmon. Today, Somersby ciders have been launched in more than 46 markets. In Singapore, they are available in leading supermarkets and online marketplaces. 

The Travelling Gourmet TM says: Keep calm and carry on drinking Somersby Cider!

Products » Somersby » Somersby Passion Fruit & Orange ...

Be dazzled by the delightful tropical vibes of Somersby Wonderful Garden Pop-Up Extravaganza from 14 to 24 April 2023! Dive into a world where thrilling activities overflow in every corner.

  • Sip on the refreshing Somersby Passionfruit and Orange Slushie
  • Indulge in complimentary cider tastings
  • Snag exclusive Somersby X Oak & Bindi Merchandise specially designed by Lydia Yang
  • Snap unforgettable memories at the Somersby Swing with complimentary prints
  • 5 lucky attendees will also stand a chance to win a year’s worth of Somersby cider

Embrace the exhilarating adventures and let the good times roll! Sign up for a refreshing fun time and enjoy complimentary slushies on us!

Somersby Wonderful Garden

Hours: Sunday – Thursday, 12 PM – 8 PM
Friday – Saturday, 1 PM – 9 PM

Location: 

Plaza Singapura Outdoor Plaza (Outside Five Guys)
68 Orchard Road, Singapore 238839
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VINITALY in Verona, Italy 2023

Posted on March 31, 2023 by thetravellinggourmet
Story and photos by Dr. MIchael Lim The Travelling Gourmet TM
Copyright all rights reserved

The indomitable and irrepressible Travelling Gourmet TM tell you about the world’s biggest wine exhibition called Vintaly in romantic Verona. the city of Romeo and Juliet. The 55th Edition of Vintaly is from 2 May to 5 May 2023. I love Vinitaly and Verona and have been here many times.

Vinitaly tastings ensure a unique experience guided by some of the leading and best known international wine experts.
Tuesday 4 April 2023, 9:30
 Iconic women in italian “Bollicine” – Led by Alison Napjus
A panel of woman producers will present semi-sparkling or sparkling wines while telling their stories – moderated by Alison Napjus, a well-known editor of US magazine Wine Spectator.
Wednesday 5 April 2023, 11:00
 Grand Tasting – setting sail for the high italian seas: on a voyage of discovery of both famous names and rising stars in Italy’s island winesA masterclass organised by Ian D’Agata exclusively for Vinitaly in the company of people producing great wines on the Italian islands.
Wednesday 5 April 2023, 11:00
 Grand Tasting – The identity capital: reimagining italian whitesA masterclass with Gabriele Gorelli MW focusing on the world of Italian White wines and their revitalised image in recent years.
Monday 3 April 2023, 10:30
 The wineries consult the modern distribution: how to face the turbulence of the markets?
A round table with a new formula: representatives of wine cellars will ask the retail distribution brands taking part questions.
Monday 3 April 2023, 15:00
 SOStain: sustainability Made in SicilyThe SOStain Sicily Foundation outlines its work promoting environmental, social and economic sustainability in collaboration with member winr cellars and international partnerstaking part.
Tuesday 4 April 2023, 16.00Blockchain and digitalization: the new frontier for a sustainable wine supply chain
Traceability and transparency for the protection of Made in Italy. TrackIT blockchain is the free service of ICE Agency that supports the competitive advantage of Italian companies in foreign markets through the enhancement of the supply chain and the story of its sustainability.

Keep calm and carry on tasting wines! Salute!
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Lanzhou Hand-pulled Noodles from NUODLE

Posted on March 17, 2023 by thetravellinggourmet

Story and photos by Dr. Michael Lim The Travelling Gourmet TM

Copyright all rights reserved

The indomitable and irrepressible Travelling Gourmet TM tells you about...

MARVELLOUS hand-pulled wheat noodles with Beef from NUODLE! These noodles were enjoyed 2,200 years ago in the Qin Dynasty of Northwest China. The famed Qin warriors immortalized as the Terracotta warriors of Xi’An loved them. In 2005 a bowl of noodles was found in a tomb dating back to the Qin Dynasty! The nutritious and flavoursome Beef Broth for the noodles is made with beef bones, liver and seasonings boiled for four hours. The Beef Broth is rich in Vitamin A, Iron and Phosphurus. Nuodle has 17 outlets in Singapore and is Halal certified. They also have Sour Soup Handmade Dumplings, Lamb Skewers and Super Spicy Chicken Gizzard Vermicelli. Try also spicy Mala Beef Bee Tai Mak for those who like it HOT!

The Travelling Gourmet TM says: Keep calm and carry on eating!

Nuodle

Nuodle

10 Eunos Road

B1-128/129 Singpost Centre

Singapore 408600

Hours: 9am to 10pm

Tel: 9189 9937

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Magical MONK FRUIT!

Posted on March 7, 2023 by thetravellinggourmet

Story and photos by Dr. Michael Lim The Travelling Gourmet TM

Copyright all rights reserved

The indomitable and irrepressible Travelling Gourmet TM sheds light on the…

MAGICAL Monk fruit. Named after the monks who first cultivated it, this fruit is also called Lo Han Guo in chinese. Itis a small, cute dark olive green round fruit that originally hails from southern China. Although Traditional Chinese Medicine  practitioners have used it for centuries, manufacturers have more recently focused on its potential as a sweetener. TCM practitioners use it to treat coughs and sore throats and believe me, it works wonders! Simply cut in half and boil it up with water to make a healing tasty drink.

What's So Great About Monk Fruit? PLUS: 5 Impressive Benefits of Monk Fruit • A Sweet Pea Chef

Companies make the zero-calorie, carbohydrate-free sweetener from the dried fruit. It is around 250 to 300 times sweeter than table sugar but does not affect blood glucose levels.

Monk fruit is rich in compounds called Mogrosides which give the fruit its extreme sweetness.

The US FDA recognizes monk fruit as safe for all consumers, including pregnant people, and children, and has permitted its use in foods and beverages.

The magical Monk Fruit…

May promote weight loss

Because monk fruit contains no Calories, no carbohydrates and no fat so people who want to lose weight may find monk fruit a useful addition to their diet.

A person who uses sugar can reduce their calorie intake by substituting monk fruit sweeteners where they would typically use sugar. For example, in their morning coffee, or with breakfast oats. People can also create low-calorie treats and desserts by using monk fruit sweeteners.

Safe for people with diabetes

Monk fruit does not affect blood sugar levels meaning it is a safe choice for people with diabetes.

However, consumers should understand product labeling to make sure their choices do not also contain sugar or other ingredients that can affect insulin sensitivity.

Anti-inflammatory properties

The Mogrosides in monk fruit have antioxidant properties which protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. The damage is a primary source of inflammation, meaning that monk fruit also has anti-inflammatory properties.

May have Anti Cancer properties


Limited research suggests that monk fruit may have anticancer properties.

A 2016 study found that monk fruit extract could suppress colorectal cancer and throat cancer growth. The authors suggested that monk fruit as a dietary supplement may have benefits beyond standard medications.

The antioxidant effects of mogrosides also reduce DNA damage by free radicals, which scientists associate with cancer growth.

May fight infections


Antibiotic resistance is a growing concern. If someone has an infection caused by germs that resist standard antibiotics, doctors may find them challenging to treat. The overuse of antibiotics is a contributing factor to these infections.

Studies show that monk fruit may have antibiotic properties.

Studies also suggest that monk fruit can fight candida. This yeast can cause painful oral thrush and affect other parts of the body, such as the digestive system.

The Travelling Gourmet TM says :

Keep calm and enjoy Monk Fruit! Stay healthy!

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Poem to Man’s best friend

Posted on February 1, 2023 by thetravellinggourmet

Story and photos by Dr. Michael Lim The Travelling Gourmet TM

Copyright all rights reserved

The intrepid and indomitable Travelling Gourmet TM writes a…

MOST heartfelt poem to Man’s best friend.

The Noble Dog

is Man’s best friend

Loyal, loving, protective

Always by your side

His true love is pure, priceless, and selfless,

Even when he is gone,

He always lives in your heart

Forever

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Splendid Shangri-La Rasa Ria Kota Kinabalu

Posted on December 29, 2022 by thetravellinggourmet

Story and photos by Dr. Michael Lim The Travelling Gourmet TM

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The indomitable and irrepressible Travelling Gourmet TM jets to Sabah, the Land below the Wind to experience a…

MARVELLOUS paradise in the Shangri-La Rasa Ria beach resort at Dalit Bay. Arguably the best beach resort in Sabah, the beach is 3km long! It is best to stay in the Ocean Wing with its own pool in a suite with an outdoor bathtub in the balcony.

The super yummie Duck is to kill terrorists for!

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Jack’s Place launches Feasting Extravaganza Festive Menu!

Posted on November 16, 2022 by thetravellinggourmet

Story and photos by Dr. Michael Lim The Travelling Gourmet TM

All rights reserved copyright

The indomitable, irrepressible and inspiring Travelling Gourmet TM tastes...

MARVELLOUS Jack’s Place Festive treats like Signature Turkey and Beef Roasts and
Holiday Toasts this year. As one of Singapore’s most well-loved steakhouses since 1966, Jack’s
Place offers one of Singapore’s best festive roast offerings for the family. There are also Halal roast options.

For 3-15 merrymakers try the Elves Feast ($218) with 3 must-haves seasonal dishes or the Santarina Feast ($288) with 5 dishes.

For a big party choose the Santa Papa Feast ($368) featuring 6 festive dishes that include a Traditional Roast Turkey or Roast Ribeye of Beef, a baked chicken ham and cheesy sausages, festive cold cuts of Beef Salami, Turkey Ham, Salmon and Seafood Platter, a roasted garden vegetables dish of Edamame Beans, Sweet Potato and Turnip plus Truffle Mushroom Spaghetti. Of course there is a Sweet finale of delectable sexy Chocolate Praline Log Cake.

Have the Mixed Berry Festive Drink with Aloe Vera and bring home the ueber-colourful Annual Collectible Christmas Glass emblazoned with Papa Santa Claus!

Buffet catering sets are available from minimum 30 persons. Catering add-ons include Festive
Bento Sets – available from $13.80 per person, minimum 20 boxess and a Mini Party Set.
For DIY fans who prefer to grill their own meats with family and friends, Jack’s Place offers their
grass-fed beef signature steak cuts of Tenderloin (2 pieces, 180g), Striploin (2 pieces, 250g) and
Ribeye (2 pieces, 180g), comes with a free pack of Jack’s Place homemade specialty brown sauce
at only $104.40 (U.P $116) per Festive Grilling Steak Combo.

All festive feasts must have a happy, auspicious and SWEET ending!
Yummie desserts include the traditional Chocolate Praline Log Cake. The Travelling Gourmet TM recommends that you try the unique citrusy Yuzu Goma Log Cake which is a New flavour! I love the zangy (zesty and tangy) flavours of Yuzu! Goma is Japanese for Black Sesame which has aphrodisiac qualities. The Christmas Red Velvet Cake is very tasty and not too sweet. I love the cute cubes of Brownie & Pastries Bites decorated with Fondant Snowflakes and Xmas Stars are irresistable! The iced eclairs are also good. Did you know that “eclair”means lightning bolt in French? I liked the Christmas Cake in a Jam Jar, Festive Cookies.

I must mention the DIY Festive Cookie Kits which make excellent gifts.

Xmas Log cakes are available in 500g ($38.80) and 1 kg ($49.80) options.

For those who prefer dining out, Jack’s Place also offers their annual Christmas eve, Christmas
Day, New Year eve and New Year Day dine-in set lunch and dinner menus. Diners may also choose
to top the feast off with the Jack’s Place specialty festive drink in an annual collectible Christmas
Glass featuring Papa Santa This Year! The Smoked Salmon Cocktail with Avocado Cream is a nice amuse bouche. I recommend the Lobster Thermidor au Gratin and Turkey with Cranberry Sauce & Chestnut Stuffing which I really like! I also like the velvety Butternut Squash Soup with little chunks of Turkey.

History of Jack’s Place
Established since 1966, Jack’s Place is the trusted favourite known for its Western food. It all started when Mr. Say Lip Hai arrived in Singapore from Hainan island and started as a cookboy with the British troops in Sembawang. There he learned how to prepare the perfect roast beef and Yorkshire pudding.
Having tasted one of Mr Say’s now famous meals, a British housewife suggested that he start a catering business with her husband, Jack Joseph Hunt, in his pub at Killiney Road known as Jack’s Place, which he started in 1966. Mr Say agreed and commenced that partnership in 1968. Shortly afterwards, Jack Hunt sold his share of the business but his namesake ‘Jack the Chef’ is still running the kitchen today! Jack’s Place is still run by the Say family today. I know Molly Say who used to run Jack’s Place at Yen San building and my father loved Jack’s Place.
Today, Jack’s Place is the trusted favourite for family and friends to enjoy great value sizzling steaks, specialty meals and sumptuous cakes. Jack’s Place is committed to serving quality food and creating memorable dining experiences in a cheerful and cozy environment for our guests.

The Travelling Gourmet TM says: Keep calm and carry on eating! Ho! Ho! Ho!

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Kettle Gourmet launches Yumi Corn Snacks

Posted on November 10, 2022 by thetravellinggourmet

Story and photos by Dr. Michael Lim The Travelling Gourmet TM

Copyright all rights reserved

The irrepressible and indomitable Travelling Gourmet TM tries new…

MOUTHWATERING and ueber-crunchy Corn Snacks from Kettle Gourmet.

Singapore-based F&B startup, The Kettle Gourmet has launched their new range of corn stick snacks – YUMI, in Singapore in 3 flavours – original, cheese, and chicken. Pre-orders are open for YUMI on The Kettle Gourmet’s site and will be available in Singapore at leading online and physical retailers from 20 October.

Founder and CEO of The Kettle Gourmet, Zac Chua has seen success in the past few years since he started the company in 2017 with less than $100 to make quality popcorn. Wanting to explore the possibilities of snacks beyond popcorn, Zac drew upon fond memories of childhood snacks. The recollection of the corn sticks he used to enjoy in Primary school sparked the inspiration for YUMI.

YUMI stems from a name of Japanese origin that means reason, cause, friend, or beautiful. The pronunciation of YUMI also borrows from the Mandarin characters, “玉米” which translates to “corn”.

The initial batch of YUMI flavours – original, cheese, and chicken, have been refined in development and chosen from their proven track record. With a working product, Zac reached out to his existing network and international partners to get the first taste of YUMI.

YUMI exported to China, Thailand & Mauritius

The corn stick snacks proved a hit and have already gained significant traction overseas. By September, the snack has been exported to China, Thailand, and Mauritius, and ongoing discussions of entering the Taiwanese market are underway.

As Singapore opens up and the workforce starts frequenting the office more often, Zac believes that YUMI has the potential to be a mainstay in office pantrie as tasty snacks..

“In the bustle through our busy days, it is important to take a break and smell the roses. A good snack and the simple joys in life can bring people together. As life returns to normal, I wish to see people enjoy YUMI together as a snack and as the ideal gift to their loved ones.” Said Zac, sharing his aspirations for his new snack.

A lot of people have a snack after lunch so as not to feel sleepy so why not much on a YUMI Corn Snack!

Yumi Corn Stick

YUMI will be available in leading physical and online outlets such as Fairprice Finest, Lazada, Shopee, Grabfood, FoodPanda, Redmart, and Qoo10, and is currently open for pre-orders The Kettle Gourmet’s site. YUMI retails for a pack of 20 sticks at $5.90 or 6 packs at $35.

Moving forward, Zac and his team will be working on porting over their renditions of local flavours from their popcorn snacks which have represented Singapore at the Dubai 2020 World Expo to critical acclaim. In the near future, customers can enjoy bestselling flavours such as “Nasi Lemak”, and “Kaya Butter Toast” with their YUMI experience.

The Travelling Gourmet TM says: Keep calm and carry on eating!

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