Serving food is undoubtedly one of the biggest challenges for in-person events in the time of COVID-19. So, how does a popular annual food fest survive the pandemic then? Well, here’s a case study as Singapore’s longest-running food festival comes back for its second run with the dreaded COVID-19 still running in its background!
After taking it virtual last year, obviously due to the pandemic-related constraints, this year’s fiesta, which will run from August 27 to September 15, sees a mix of in-person and online events planned. From masterclasses with stars from the local culinary scene to food tours taking you around the island and more, Singapore Food Festival 2021 celebrates its vibrant food culture once more.
Now in its 28th year, those actually living in the Lion City can look forward to dining and drinking their way around historic neighbourhoods, or hopping on a trishaw to discover Clarke Quay’s scintillating past, with a durian picnic in tow. Otherwise, take a boat trip around Singapore’s Southern Islands with Keong Saik Bakery, or go glamping while packing some tasty local kueh!
But for all of us stuck for the time being in Malaysia, we can still look forward to a nice pick of 18 different masterclasses conducted by some of Singapore’s most celebrated chefs – from award-winning Singapore greats, to rising superstars who are making waves now! Nine of these are paid masterclasses, inclusive of ingredient kits delivered to your doorstep (not sure how this will work out for us in Malaysia, though!). But for those in Singapore, there will be a limited number of spots if you prefer to opt to join in person.
Chef Drew Nocente of Salted & Hung
Fortunately, these masterclasses will also be available for general viewing absolutely free on the Singapore Food Festival 2021 Facebook page just 24 hours after the live classes!
So, get ready to pick up kitchen tips in sustainable cooking from masters such as Australian chef Drew Nocente of Salted & Hung – a delectable gastronomic jewel tucked away in Purvis Street, who’ll be presenting his elevated rendition of Barramundi Fish Soup. Watch Chef Nocente as he prepares the dish, whilst sharing notes on how home cooks can maximise their ingredients, and reduce waste while cooking.
Chef Eric Neo
Meanwhile, fans of more familiar Asian cuisine should definitely consider the Two Men and A Bottle masterclass, led by Chef Eric Neo. He will demonstrate the layering of flavours for the classic Ayam Buah Keluak… but with a twist, as his version features liberal dashes of Martell Noblige Cognac! And good things definitely come in pairs because this bundle also includes discovering details on how to fix a Martell-based cocktail designed by mixologist Peter Chua from Ann Siang Hill’s Junior the Pocket Bar…
But if baking is more your thing, then why not join Pastry Chef Mohammad Al-Matin – the man behind hot-selling Le Matin Patisserie at Raeburn Park? With him, prepare to get your hands all dirty as you discover how to bake a Goreng Pisang Parfait, among other delightful things in store!
Remember, make sure you don’t set fire to your own kitchen now… and don’t forget to ensure there’s a fire extinguisher handy just in case!
