Malaysian Bak Kut Teh vs. Singaporean Bak Kut Teh

In the world of Southeast Asian cuisine, there exists a dish that is steeped in history, infused with tradition, and bursting with flavours that tell a story of cultural identity and culinary ingenuity. This dish is Bak Kut Teh, a name that translates to “meat bone tea”.

This hearty, herbal soup has warmed the hearts and bellies of many across Malaysia and Singapore. But not all Bak Kut Teh is the same. Today, let us differentiate Malaysian Food from Singaporean Food, particularly on Bak Kut Teh.

Hearty Malaysian Food - Bak Kut Teh

Bak Kut Teh’s roots in Malaysia are as deep as its flavours. The Malaysian version of this dish is a testament to the country’s rich culture, reflecting the influence of Chinese medicine in its choice of herbs and spices. A typical Malaysian Food Bak Kut Teh is a dark, herbal concoction that boasts a complex blend of star anise, cinnamon, cloves, dang gui, and fennel seeds. This aromatic mixture of herbs is believed to have warming properties, making it not just a meal but also a therapeutic experience.

Peppery Singaporean Food - Bak Kut Teh

Singaporean Bak Kut Teh could not be more different, yet it is equally cherished. The Singapore ’s version is a clear, peppery soup that is as straightforward as it is flavorful. The primary ingredients are pork ribs simmered in a broth seasoned with copious amounts of white pepper and whole cloves of garlic. This results in a spicy, garlicky flavour profile that is both bold and refreshing.

Differentiating Factors:

While both Malaysian Bak Kut Teh and Singaporean Bak Kut Teh share a common foundation of pork ribs and flavorful broth, several key differences set them apart.

Flavor Profile:

• Malaysia Bak Kut Teh boasts a more herbal and aromatic flavour profile, resulting from the generous use of herbs such as dang gui.
• Singapore Bak Kut Teh, on the other hand, features a peppery broth infused with garlic and white pepper, offering a sharper and spicier flavour profile.

Broth Consistency:

• Malaysia Bak Kut Teh typically features a thicker and more viscous broth, achieved through prolonged simmering with various herbs and spices.
• Singapore Bak Kut Teh, in contrast, tends to have a lighter and clearer broth, allowing the peppery flavours to shine through without overwhelming the palate.

77 Mart: Your Gateway to Authentic Bak Kut Teh

Calling all Bak Kut Teh lovers in Australia! 77 Mart has curated a selection of instant Bak Kut Teh spices packs that cater to both Malaysian and Singaporean Bak Kur Teh lovers. These packs are crafted for food enthusiasts to enjoy a taste of authenticity at their convenience.

Malaysian Bak Kut Teh

For those who love the herbal goodness of the Malaysian Food version of bak kut teh, our instant packs come with a pre-mixed sachet of herbs and spices that promise a broth that is rich and complex.