Showing posts with label Glutinous Rice. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Glutinous Rice. Show all posts

Friday, January 31, 2025

Red House Seafood @ Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel - CNY 2025 Menus and New Dishes

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Celebrate this Lunar New Year at Red House Seafood at Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel Singapore with their specially curated CNY Set Menus and exciting new dishes.

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Prosperity Abalone and Coral Seaweed Yu Sheng 4/5

The Prosperity Abalone and Coral Seaweed Yu Sheng is a perennial favourite among regulars. It is loved for its unique crunch, which comes from the addition of coral seaweed, adding a refreshing twist to this classic dish.

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Jackfruit Salad 5/5

To start, we indulged in a delightful array of new side dishes. The Jackfruit Salad stood out with its vibrant citrusy flavours, beautifully balanced by the tangy Buah Kedongdong Sauce.

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Salted Egg Tempeh 4/5

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Crispy Baby Squid 4/5

Both the Salted Egg Tempeh and Crispy Baby Squid offered savoury, addictive bites.

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Grilled Marinated Squid 4/5

Meanwhile, the Grilled Marinated Squid impressed with its tender texture and subtle smokiness from the grill that elevated its flavour.

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Steamed Giant Grouper Tail with Bentong Ginger 4.5/5

A signature highlight is the Steamed Giant Grouper Tail with Bentong Ginger, a speciality of Red House Seafood. The restaurant uniquely offers different cuts of the giant grouper, akin to steak cuts. This particular dish featured tender, firm meat with a gelatinous skin. The bentong ginger, known for its extra punchy aroma, beautifully complemented the robust flavours of the fish.

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Lemongrass and Jasmine Tea Smoked Chicken 5/5

Another standout was the Lemongrass and Jasmine Tea Smoked Chicken. The meat was tender, offering a flavour profile reminiscent of sweet soy sauce chicken but elevated by the subtle, aromatic notes of lemongrass and jasmine.

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Braised Sea Cucumber with Shiitake Mushroom and Duo Cauliflower 4/5

Braised Sea Cucumber with Shiitake Mushroom and Duo Cauliflower was more aesthetically pleasing than usual. The use of Yellow and Purple Cauliflower added a pop of colour to the dish. The sauce had a savoury depth of flavour that aptly complemented the braised sea cucumber.

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Glutinous Rice Chicken Roll with Quinoa and Wax Meat 4.5/5

The Glutinous Rice Chicken Roll with Quinoa and Wax Meat showcased the culinary team's expertise. The chicken was skillfully processed into a paste to encase a flavourful mixture of glutinous rice, quinoa, and wax meat, then shaped into an elegant roulade with the chicken's skin. The incorporation of quinoa lightened the dish while making it more nutritious, a thoughtful twist on the traditional version.

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Signature Chilli Crab 4.5/5

No visit would be complete without the Signature Chilli Crab, served with adorable crab-shaped mantou. The sauce struck the perfect balance of sweet and mildly spicy flavours, while the mantou was golden crisp on the outside and fluffy on the inside — ideal for soaking up every last bit of the sauce.

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Crispy Bubur Cha Cha 4.5/5

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Purple Glutinous Rice Cake 4.5/5

For desserts, the Crispy Bubur Cha Cha offered a creative and delightful spin on the traditional dish. The crispy sweet potato strips provided an enjoyable crunch, complementing the soft sweet potato cubes and the creamy yam coconut base. The Purple Glutinous Rice Cake was another highlight, offering a healthier and aromatic take on traditional Nian Gao. The earthy flavour of the purple glutinous rice and the fragrant shredded coconut boosted an additional texture and aroma to the festive treat.

Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Red House Seafood
Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel Singapore
392 Havelock Road
Level 2
Singapore 169663
Tel: +65 67357666
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Nearest MRT:

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 3pm, 5pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Havelock MRT station. Take Exit 4. Turn left and walk to traffic junction of Havelock Road and Kim Seng Road. Cross the road. Turn left and walk down Kim Seng Road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Tuesday, January 28, 2025

Shisen Hanten by Chen Kentaro @ Hilton Orchard Singapore - Celebrates Year of The Snake With a Variety of Festive Set Menus

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Chūka Szechwan Ryori specialist Shisen Hanten by Chen Kentaro celebrates the upcoming Chinese New Year with a variety of festive set menus, à la carte offerings, as well as festive goodies available for takeaway.

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The renovated space is stunning, with a high ceiling and well-curated art pieces throughout. Befitting its Michelin-starred status, the service here is attentive, gracious and thoughtful, capturing the essence of omotenashi, the quintessentially Japanese spirit of hospitality.

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The Abundance Set Menu ($208++ per guest) is an elegant 8-course experience designed to delight the senses. Other festive set menus, ranging from $168++ to $388++ per guest, are also available for dine-in from 12 January to 12 February 2025.

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Abalone and Madai Yu Sheng 4.5/5

The evening commenced with an Abalone and Madai Yu Sheng presented to the table. This festive favourite features tender slices of abalone and Japanese Madai (Sea Bream). It is accompanied by a vibrant mix of shredded carrots, green and white radishes, pickled ginger, and cucumbers, and the dish is finished with a calamansi plum sauce, sesame oil, and a sprinkling of crushed peanuts. We tossed it well and high for good luck and enjoyed this refreshing start to the meal.

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Crab Roe Foie Gras Chawanmushi with Bird’s Nest 5/5

Next came a dish of Crab Roe Foie Gras Chawanmushi with Bird's Nest, served in its own warmer. This dish was silky and rich, using carefully hand-picked crab that lent it a delicate sweetness. Each spoonful was warm and totally luxurious, especially with the added indulgence of Bird's Nest on top.

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Stir-Fried Prawns with Basil Sauce 4.5/5

Our next dish was Stir-Fried Prawns with Basil Sauce. It featured a plump, juicy prawn coated in a fragrant, aromatic basil sauce. The prawn was slightly crisp and very fresh, with firm yet tender flesh. Eaten with the basil sauce, it was simply delicious!

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Steamed Seasonal Fish Fillet with Pickled Peppers 4.2/5

Following the prawn was the Steamed Seasonal Fish Fillet with Pickled Peppers. We were presented with Kinmedai, prized for its sweet, clean taste and firm texture, which is a bit richer than other white fish. It was served with pickled peppers and topped with a chilli blend for a subtle kick of spice. While the sauce was excellent, I found the fish itself to be slightly overcooked.

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Wok Fried Hokkaido Shirobuta Pork with XO Sauce 4.2/5

The Wok-Fried Hokkaido Shirobuta Pork with XO Sauce was served with a medley of vegetables, such as asparagus, peppers, and mushrooms. Shirobuta is known for its fine, even marbling in the meat, which gives it a juicy, melty mouthfeel. The tasty XO Sauce also enhanced the overall flavour of the pork.

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Braised Australian 4-head Whole Abalone with Mushrooms in Oyster Sauce 4.8/5

I really enjoyed the Braised Australian 4-head Whole Abalone with Mushrooms in Oyster Sauce, which had very comforting flavours. The abalone had a smooth, delicate texture that wasn't rubbery or tough and absorbed the delicious sauce it was sitting in. I also liked that they cooked it with some crisp lettuce for a slight crunch. The sauce was so good. I would have loved to eat it with white rice or stewed noodles if I had not already been so full!

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Wok-fried Glutinous Rice with Chinese Sausages topped with Crispy Sakura Shrimps 4.5/5

Despite being so full, I couldn't resist trying the Wok-fried Glutinous Rice with Chinese Sausages, topped with Crispy Sakura Shrimps. The rice was fragrant and aromatic, infused with the rich flavour of the Chinese sausages. The rice was nice and sticky, with a slightly chewy texture.

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Double-boiled Hashima with Dried Longan and Crispy Duo-flavour Nian Gao Roll 4/5

For dessert, we were treated to a bowl of Double-boiled Hashima with Dried Longan, as well as a Crispy Duo-flavour Nian Gao Roll. The Hashima, with its soft, gelatinous texture, is believed to be rich in collagen, offering both beauty and health benefits. Cooked with longan and dates, it was light and subtly sweet.

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However, my personal preference was the crispy Nian Gao roll, wrapped in spring roll skin. In addition to the traditional nian gao, it also featured a pandan-flavoured version, adding an interesting twist to the roll.

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As my dining companion doesn't eat Hashima, the staff kindly offered her a bowl of mango sago instead, which was a tangy and very refreshing end to her meal.

Overall, dining at Shisen Hanten is a real treat and a memorable experience from start to finish. With its refined cuisine, sophisticated ambience and impeccable service, it's definitely the kind of place to bring someone you'd like to impress. Wine and tea pairings are also available to complement your dining experience.

Photographed and penned by Shermine. Through her pictures and stories, she shares her journey of savouring new flavours and experiences. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Shisen Hanten by Chen Kentaro
Hilton Singapore Orchard
Level 35
333 Orchard Road
Singapore 238867
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Nearest MRT: Somerset (NS Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 12pm - 3pm, 6pm - 10pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Somerset MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to ground level. Turn left onto Orchard Road. Walk down Orchard Road. Cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]

Wednesday, January 22, 2025

Yu Cun Curry Fish Head (渔村砂煲咖喱鱼头) @ Sultan Gate - Enticing Lunar New Year Menu Alongside Its Signature Curry Fish Head

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After nearly a decade since my first visit to Yu Cun Curry Fish Head's (渔村砂煲咖喱鱼头) inaugural outlet at Upper Paya Lebar in 2015, I decided to explore its second outlet at Sultan Gate. With Chinese New Year just around the corner, Yu Cun has rolled out an enticing festive menu alongside its signature dishes that continue to attract fans. Here's a detailed look at my dining experience.

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Yu Cun Prosperity Yu Sheng 3/5

No Chinese New Year celebration is complete without tossing Yu Sheng for abundance and prosperity. Yu Cun's Prosperity Yu Sheng ($55++) is a vibrant dish, but compared to other Yu Sheng offerings in the market, it lacked a wow factor in terms of taste and textural interplay. While the flavours are enjoyable, I found them more ordinary than memorable.

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Braised Chicken Soup with Creamy Red Lotus 4.2/5

The Braised Chicken Soup with Creamy Red Lotus ($78++) is a comforting, hearty dish packed with rich flavours, perfect for rainy, chilly weather. The broth, brimming with chicken, red lotus, and white fungus, showcases depth and warmth, making it a standout in their menu.

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Prosperity Eight Treasure Duck 4.5/5

The Prosperity Eight Treasure Duck ($98++) is a delightful surprise and an absolute highlight of the meal. The tender, well-braised duck is stuffed with fragrant glutinous rice, creating a perfect harmony of textures and flavours. This dish exudes festive indulgence and is a must-try for anyone looking for something special on the menu.

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Pen Cai 4.2/5

The Pen Cai ($298++) is a decadent celebration pot filled with premium ingredients such as 10-head abalone, prawns, fish maw, dried scallops, sea cucumber, roasted meats, and vegetables like cabbage and broccoli. The generous portions and luxurious ingredients make it a festive centrepiece. As an added bonus, you can enjoy a 15% discount on the Pen Cai with any purchase of Yu Cun's CNY package.

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Steamed Red Grouper in Golden Broth 3.8/5

Fish is an auspicious symbol of abundance during Chinese New Year, and Yu Cun's Steamed Red Grouper in Golden Broth ($118++) is well-executed. The delicate grouper fillets, sandwiched with ham and carrot, are tender and flavorful. While the ham adds richness, the overall dish is satisfying but not groundbreaking.

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Bonito Flake Pork Ribs 4/5

The Bonito Flake Pork Ribs ($78++) are fork-tender and marinated in a luscious, sweet sauce. While the addition of bonito flakes adds visual appeal, they don't significantly elevate the flavour profile. That said, the ribs themselves are delicious and worth trying.

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Lobster Combinations 3.8/5

The Lobster Combinations ($218++) offers lobster cooked in two styles. The first is deep-fried lobster meat in a sweet orange sauce, while the second is paired with a tangy, spicy Thai-style salad. While the contrasting flavours are enjoyable, the dish felt slightly predictable and lacked the wow factor compared to other seafood options on the menu.

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Claypot Curry Fish Head 4.8/5

The star of the show is undoubtedly Yu Cun's Claypot Curry Fish Head. Revisiting this signature dish after almost a decade, I was pleasantly surprised by the improvement in flavour. The curry is now richer, creamier, and more lemak than I remembered. The dish is loaded with fresh vegetables like long beans, lady's fingers, and tau kee, making it a hearty and satisfying offering. It's clear that Yu Cun has refined its recipe over the years, and this dish alone is worth the visit.

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Yu Cun Curry Fish Head continues to be a go-to spot for hearty, comforting Chinese cuisine, especially during the festive season. While some dishes on the CNY menu could use a touch more creativity, signature items like the Claypot Curry Fish Head and Prosperity Eight Treasure Duck shine brightly. Whether planning a celebratory feast with family or revisiting old favourites, Yu Cun's offerings will surely make your meal memorable.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Yu Cun Curry Fish Head (渔村砂煲咖喱鱼头)
29/31 Sultan Gate
Singapore 198477
Tel: +65 6038 0391
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Nearest MRT: Nicoll Highway (CC Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1130am - 9pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Nicoll Highway MRT station. Take Exit A. Take the overhead bridge to the end. Walk along Beach Road towards Sultan Gate road. Turn right onto Sultan Gate road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 6 minutes. [Map]

Tuesday, January 7, 2025

Man Fu Yuan @ InterContinental Singapore - Celebrate the Year of the Snake with Embering Abundance

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Ring in the Year of the Snake with an opulent dining experience at Man Fu Yuan, located in the heart of InterContinental Singapore. From 15 December 2024 to 16 February 2025, the restaurant presents a grand celebration of Lunar New Year traditions, offering meticulously curated menus and luxurious à la carte dishes. Whether you're dining in or indulging in takeaway treasures, Man Fu Yuan promises a feast of abundance and joy.

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Blazing Snake Fortune Yu Sheng

The highlight of this year's celebrations is the Blazing Snake Fortune Yu Sheng ($988++, serves up to 10 guests), a spectacular creation featuring an intricate design of eight "snakes," each symbolizing blessings like Peace, Prosperity, Health, and Good Fortune. Grilled eels, signifying renewal, take centre stage alongside premium ingredients like abalone, rock lobster, salmon sashimi, crispy skin, ikura, and Hokkaido shredded dried scallops. Drizzled with golden wafu, roasted sesame dressing, and fragrant oil, this magnificent 60-inch yu sheng is the perfect way to usher in a prosperous year.

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Braised 'Kao Fu' Beancurd with Superior Soy Sauce 3/5

The meal began with a delicate amuse-bouche: Braised 'Kao Fu' Beancurd with Superior Soy Sauce. A bite-sized delight, it offered a glimpse of the refined craftsmanship that Man Fu Yuan brings to its Lunar New Year menu.

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Braised Spinach Seafood Bisque with Fish Maw 4.2/5

A departure from the usual broths, the Braised Spinach Seafood Bisque with Fish Maw features a light yet flavourful broth infused with seafood essence. Paired with premium fish maw that boasts a firm and bouncy texture, this dish is both refreshing and luxurious.

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Braised South African 6-head Abalone with Iberico Pork Collar, Flower Mushroom 4.2/5

This trio of indulgences includes Braised South African 6-head Abalone enriched with a luscious braising sauce, tender Iberico Pork Collar, and earthy Flower Mushrooms. The abalone, cooked to perfection, and the Iberico pork, with its delightful crunch, made this dish a standout.

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Braised Whole Guan Dong Sea Cucumber Stuffed with Minced Pork and Prawn 4.2/5

The Braised Whole Guan Dong Sea Cucumber is a true delicacy stuffed with a savoury blend of minced pork and prawn. The sea cucumber's gelatinous texture complements the flavourful stuffing, creating a dish that's as satisfying as it is unique.

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Steamed Greenland Halibut with Preserved Citrus Golden Chilli Sauce and Scallion 4.5/5

The Steamed Greenland Halibut was tender and moist, with the preserved citrus golden chilli sauce adding a sweet, tangy, and spicy kick that elevated the dish. The balanced flavours paired harmoniously with the fish’s delicate texture.

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Braised Duo La Mian with Alaska King Crab, Rock Lobster and Crab Roe 4.2/5

This luxurious noodle dish features Braised Duo La Mian soaked in a rich crab roe sauce, offering an umami-packed finish. The addition of Alaska king crab and rock lobster makes it a decadent treat perfect for the festive season.

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Braised Rock Lobster with Golden Crispy Rice, Lobster Bisque, Garlic, Ginger 4.8/5

A must-try is the Braised Rock Lobster with Golden Crispy Rice, where fragrant rice absorbs the robust flavours of the lobster bisque. The garlic and ginger lend a subtle warmth, making each mouthful rich and satisfying.

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Chilled Osmanthus Flower Tea 4.2/5

To conclude the meal, the Chilled Osmanthus Flower Tea offers a refreshing endnote. This light, sweet soup is brimming with nourishing ingredients like red dates, snow lotus seeds, dried longan, lily bulbs, and golden bird's nest, embodying both tradition and indulgence.

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Man Fu Yuan Abundance Treasure Pot

For a communal feast, the Man Fu Yuan Abundance Treasure Pot is a treasure trove of over 18 premium ingredients, including 6-head whole abalone, rock lobster, premium sea cucumber, fish maw, and more. Available for both dine-in and takeaway, it's the ultimate centrepiece for any Lunar New Year celebration.

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Steamed Rock Lobster with Glutinous Rice, Crabmeat and Crab Roe

Beyond the prix-fixe menus, Man Fu Yuan offers exquisite à la carte options for those seeking specific indulgences:

- Steamed Rock Lobster with Glutinous Rice, Crabmeat, and Crab Roe ($158++) – A delicately steamed lobster atop fragrant glutinous rice infused with sweet crabmeat and umami-rich crab roe.

- Flambé Eight Treasure Duck with Abalone ($198++) – A stunning whole duck stuffed with auspicious ingredients, crowned with tender abalone and flambéed for dramatic flair.

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Flambe Eight Treasure Duck with Abalone

Lunar New Year takeaway goodies are available for pre-order from 15 December 2024 to 12 February 2025. For reservations and enquiries, call +65 6825 1008 or email sinhbmanfuyuan.manfuyuan@ihg.com. Alternatively, browse the takeaway options online at InterContinental Singapore Festive Goodies.

Man Fu Yuan once again raises the bar with its impeccable Lunar New Year offerings, blending timeless traditions with modern flair. Whether you're dining in or taking home a festive feast, this culinary destination ensures a prosperous and indulgent start to the Year of the Snake.

Note: This is an invited tasting.


Man Fu Yuan
InterContinental Singapore
Level 2
80 Middle Road
Singapore 188966
Tel: +65 63387600
Facebook
Website
Nearest MRT: Bugis (EW Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1145am - 330pm, 630pm - 1030pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Bugis MRT station. Take Exit C. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]