Mediterranean Food

Mediterranean food in Singapore offers a rich, diverse array of flavors and ingredients from countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, such as Greece, Turkey, Lebanon, Italy, Spain, and Egypt. The cuisine is known for its healthy focus, using fresh vegetables, herbs, grains, legumes, olive oil, seafood, and lean meats. In Singapore, Mediterranean dining is celebrated for its versatility, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, each showcasing the region’s traditional dishes and contemporary twists.

Key Ingredients:

Olive Oil – A fundamental ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine, olive oil is used for cooking, drizzling over dishes, and as a dipping sauce for bread.
Fresh Vegetables – Common vegetables include tomatoes, cucumbers, eggplants, bell peppers, onions, and leafy greens.
Legumes & Grains – Chickpeas, lentils, and beans, alongside couscous, rice, and bulgur, form the base for many Mediterranean meals.
Seafood & Meats – Fish, calamari, and shellfish are prominent in coastal Mediterranean regions. Lamb, chicken, and beef are frequently used, often marinated in herbs and spices.
Cheeses – Mediterranean cheeses such as feta, halloumi, goat cheese, and labneh add richness and flavor to dishes.
Herbs and Spices – Fresh herbs like basil, oregano, mint, thyme, and rosemary, as well as spices like cumin, paprika, and sumac, are frequently used.

Popular Mediterranean Dishes in Singapore:

Hummus – A creamy dip made from blended chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice, usually served with pita bread.
Falafel – Deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices. Often enjoyed in pita bread with salads and tahini sauce.
Tabbouleh – A refreshing salad made from finely chopped parsley, tomatoes, mint, onions, and bulgur, dressed in olive oil and lemon juice.
Moussaka – A baked casserole dish made with layers of eggplant, minced lamb or beef, and béchamel sauce, similar to a lasagna.
Grilled Kebabs – Skewered and grilled meats, typically lamb, chicken, or beef, marinated with Mediterranean herbs and spices, served with rice or salad.
Shawarma – Thinly sliced marinated meat (usually lamb, chicken, or beef) served in a pita or flatbread with vegetables and sauces like garlic or tahini.
Paella – A Spanish rice dish cooked with seafood, chicken, chorizo, and saffron, rich in flavors from the sea and spices.
Baklava – A sweet pastry made from layers of filo dough filled with nuts and sweetened with honey or syrup.
Grilled Halloumi – A Cypriot cheese that’s grilled until crispy on the outside but remains soft inside, often served as a salad topping or appetizer.

Mediterranean Dining Spots in Singapore:

Singapore boasts several restaurants and cafes offering Mediterranean cuisine, providing a delightful fusion of traditional flavors and modern dining experiences. These eateries might specialize in Greek, Turkish, Lebanese, or Italian Mediterranean fare. Popular Mediterranean dining venues include:

The Mediterranean (Singapore) – Known for its Greek-inspired dishes, featuring fresh ingredients like olive oil, seafood, and lamb.
Bakalaki Greek Taverna – A vibrant Greek restaurant serving meze platters, grilled seafood, and lamb dishes, ideal for sharing.
Kafe UTU – Focusing on East African and Mediterranean flavors, this place offers a blend of traditional Mediterranean dishes with an African twist.
The Soup Spoon – While primarily known for soups, some outlets offer Mediterranean-inspired soups, such as Greek Lentil Soup and Tomato-based soups.
Meze – A Mediterranean restaurant that brings the concept of sharing small plates with offerings like hummus, baba ganoush, and grilled meats.