Bak Kut Teh is one of the lesser known dishes here in Singapore. However, it’s still an amazing local dish that has a Malaysian variation as well. Singapore’s version is peppery, while the Malaysian version is more herbal.
I’ve always preferred the Malaysian style due to my spice intolerance, however, I wanted to get out of my comfort zone and try the spicier Singaporean version. Hock Lee Bak Kut Teh can be ordered at Toa Payoh Lorong 8 hawker centre and is known for its Singapore style peppery broth. I wanted to give it a try since it was a rainy day and a hot soup would be perfect for it.
The bowl of Bak Kut Teh($6) came with a few pieces of thick pork ribs and garlic. It’s a simple dish yet it is one that holds a depth of flavour in its broth. I got an unexpected surprise when I took my first sip of the broth as it seemed to be overly peppery for my taste. However, I got used to it after a while and I began to notice the sublime peppery kick on my tongue. It had a very homely flavour and I could discern a very pronounced pork and a subtle garlic taste from the broth.
Digging into pork ribs is my favourite part whenever I eat Bak Kut Teh since I always love the porky flavour of the ribs. Hock Lee’s pork ribs were thick and meaty. In addition, they were also slightly juicy and had some fat on them which is always appreciated since it makes the meat more tender.
I won’t say whether Hock Lee Bak Kut Teh is one of the best Bak Kut Teh stalls in Singapore because I seldom eat Bak Kut Teh, so I can’t compare it to other stalls. It definitely tastes good, but I’m sure there are better Bak Kut Teh stalls out there in Singapore. However, what I can say is it has made me appreciate the peppery Singapore style Bak Kut Teh more. I now have the courage to try other Bak Kut Teh in stalls and restaurants that serve it Singapore style.
Rating:
Soup: 8/10
Meat: 7.5/10
Enjoyment: 7.5/10
Hock Lee Bat Kut Teh
210 Lorong 8 Toa Payoh, Lorong 8, #01-64 Market & Hawker Centre, Singapore 310210
Opening hours: Fri-Sun: 10am – 9pm, Tues-Wed 10am – 9pm; Closed on Mon and Thu
