Happen to be in Woodlands and can’t decide where to go for affordable Chinese herbal soup? Ah Ma Bak Kut Teh can be an option for you. It’s comfort food for your tummy especially on a chilly raining day. *not a sponsored article*
The History
Bak Kut Teh is believed to have originated from China’s Fujian province. Afterwhich, it was introduced to Singapore and Malaysia by the Hokkien immigrants in the 19th century. It is a delicacy enjoyed by the Chinese coolies as a fulfilling breakfast before starting their day at work.
The Sight
The signature Bak Kut Teh is served in a claypot bowl with meatballs, small-sized pork ribs, tofu skin, enoki and butter mushrooms, chinese cabbage and a few slices of fatty roast pork. The soup was clear with noticeable mini circles of oil on the surface.
The Smell
Strong-scented herbs and a hint of aroma from the cloves of garlic and spices wafted into our nose after collecting the freshly-brewed dish from the store. The fragrance of the bak kut teh feels as though the broth had been simmered for a period of time with Chinese herbs, condiments and garlic.
The Sound
“sL..UrP…” the herbal broth was irresistible as we continued savouring the soup.
The Taste
The meat of the stewed pork ribs were generally tender with the exception of certain parts that were slightly tougher. Eating the tofu skin gave us a burst of soup’s richness. The cloves of garlic added a tinge of spice to enhance the flavour of the light traditional herbal soup. As the Bak Kut Teh is cooked more in the Malaysian style which focuses on the herbalness unlike the ones you find in Song Fa Bak Kut Teh, there isn’t the pepperish kick and rich garlicky taste.
The Verdict
Overall, the Bak Kut Teh served at Ah Ma Bak Kut Teh is very soothing to the stomach. For a $6++ dish, it is considered very reasonable and is a decent meal. And, of course, a Bak Kut Teh cannot go without “giam cai” - salted preserved vegetables! Additionally, if you want to enjoy the full experience of savouring the broth, order the “You Tiaos” which are known as fried long fritters. Throw it into your Bak Kut Teh for 10 seconds and plop it into your mouth. We guarantee you that you will not regret it! A downside of this coffee shop located in Primz Bizhub is that transportation can be a bit inconvenient without a car as there is no direct public transport that stops right in front of the industrial area (there’s still a walking distance). However, if you are in the vicinity, do drop by and try it out! :)
Ah Ma Bak Kut Teh:
21 Woodlands Close #01-23 Primz BizHub, Singapore 737854
Open Daily, 9.30am to 8.30pm
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