Culinary exploration is one of the world’s most common pursuits. From Scotland’s deep-fried Mars bar to Sweden’s kebab pizza, culinary explorers can do some really inventive things with food. But let’s be honest with each other, we all eat some food pairings that are a little bit strange from time to time. For me, it’s tuna pizza – something that’s available in pretty much every pizzeria, but never fails to elicit a disgusted response from my friends and colleagues. I’ve still got no idea why.
Whilst innovative food pairing is a desirable feature of gourmet cuisine, unusual combinations are very much down to personal choice. Here we look at some weird and wonderful examples available right here in Singapore. At a first glance, these may turn off Singaporeans. But keep an open mind! They often turn out to be surprisingly tasty (or at least, edible).
1 | Fried Chicken and Waffles
While most of us associate waffles with ice-cream and fruits, fried chicken and waffles is surprisingly common in some parts of the world, notably North America. And it was only a matter of time before the trend came to Singapore – it’s pretty easy to find this dish nowadays. Or you can make it at home. Order waffles and fried chicken separately, put them on the same plate and voila!
2 | Maple Syrup and Bacon
I’m very much a traditionalist when it comes to bacon. It comes with breakfast, normally with scrambled eggs. Maybe a sausage, but that’s about it. Clearly not everyone concurs. Candied bacon (yes, it does exist) is served on pancakes and smothered in maple syrup.
3 | French Fries and Vanilla Ice-Cream
What’s better than a bowl of french fries? Easy. A bowl of french fries covered in ketchup. Or mayo. Or cheese. Or ice cream? Believe it or not, the vanilla cold stuff is a fantastic accompaniment for fried potatoes. It’s something to do with the combination of hot and cold, and sweet and salty. Honestly, it works.
4 | Chocolate and Salt
Using a similar very-scientific formula to french fries and ice cream, sea salt caramel is a relatively recent addition to the culinary landscape and a delicious one at that. Word has it that even US president Barack Obama is a fan.
5 | Cheese and Ramen
How to make plain noodles more interesting? I personally think plain noodles are thrilling enough, but if you’re into experimentation, then you could do worse that this cheesy noodle dish. Cheese is one of the most popular toppings for Italy’s greatest export (that’s pasta – along with pizza and Luciano Pavarotti), so why not give cheesy noodles a try. If it doesn’t sound tempting, check out this great list for more ideas.
Hailing from the South-West of England, David is passionate about writing and despite his country’s reputation for culinary ineptitude, also enjoys cooking and feasting. He spends his free time climbing up rocks, drinking scrumpy cider from a pint glass, kicking a ball around a pitch and screwing pieces of wood together (making furniture).
