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Old Fashioned
Hawker • Singapore
About Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned isn’t just a classic cocktail in Western bars; it’s also found in some creative Singapore hawker beverage stalls—usually marketed as a retro drink for those who want a taste of the past with a local spin. This beverage is a mix of sugar, bitters, and whisky, typically stirred with an orange peel and served over ice. At Singapore hawker stalls, it’s poured in a short glass, sometimes garnished with a maraschino cherry for that extra touch. Though not as commonly ordered as kopi or teh, the Old Fashioned offers an alternative for those looking to unwind in the evening after a plate of char kway teow or satay. Health-wise, this drink clocks in at an estimated 155 kcal per 100g, largely from alcohol and sugar. It contains minimal nutritional value — zero protein, zero fat, and no fibre. The sugar content is moderate (around 7g per 100g), but most calories come from spirits, which are best enjoyed in moderation. If you're mindful of calories or sugar, consider sharing the drink or opting for a lighter dilution if the hawker allows (adding more ice or water). It’s vegan, so suitable for plant-based diets, but definitely not for those avoiding alcohol. Order it when you’re seeking something nostalgic and strong, but keep portions in check. Pair with lighter hawker meals if you want to balance out your intake for the evening.
How to Make Singaporean Old Fashioned (Traditional & Healthy Version)
The Old Fashioned is a classic beverage that has taken on a unique flair in Singapore’s vibrant kopitiam and cocktail bar scene. While its origins may be rooted in classic Western recipes, the Singaporean Old Fashioned adapts gracefully to the local palate, offering a fusion of tropical flavors and local influences. Singapore’s hawker culture has inspired bartenders and home enthusiasts alike to reimagine this traditional drink with ingredients like gula melaka (palm sugar), pandan, and citrus, creating a harmonious blend that reflects the multicultural spirit of the Lion City. This health-conscious version of the Old Fashioned is crafted with mindful ingredient choices, reducing added sugars and featuring natural flavors, making it a great pick for calorie-conscious individuals. The taste is a delightful balance of robust, aromatic notes with subtle sweetness and a refreshing zest, perfect for relaxing after a long day or elevating your brunch routine. Whether you’re enjoying it at a trendy bar in Tiong Bahru or a cozy evening at home, the Singaporean Old Fashioned is a testament to creative fusion and local heritage.
Ingredients(for 1 glass (200ml) per person)
- 90 ml Whiskey (Choose a smooth, lower alcohol option for health)
- 1 tablespoon Gula Melaka (palm sugar) (Melted; substitute with brown sugar if unavailable)
- 4 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 small piece Pandan leaf (Lightly bruised for aroma) - optional
- 2 strips Orange zest (Thinly peeled)
- 1 cup Ice cubes (Preferably large cubes)
- 2 teaspoons Filtered water (To dilute and balance)
- 2 pieces Maraschino cherry (For garnish; optional) - optional
- 1 strip Lime zest (For added local citrus aroma) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Prepare the glassware by chilling two short glasses with ice water for a few minutes, then discard the water.
2 minutes
Cold glass keeps the drink refreshing longer.
- 2
In a mixing glass, combine gula melaka with filtered water. Stir until fully dissolved.
3 minutes
Ensure gula melaka is fully melted for smooth sweetness.
- 3
Add bitters and whiskey to the mixing glass. Stir gently to blend.
2 minutes
Use a bar spoon and stir slowly to avoid dilution.
- 4
Add ice cubes and the pandan leaf (if using). Stir for about 10 seconds to chill and infuse.
2 minutes
Do not over-stir; it keeps the flavors bright.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Choosing natural sweeteners like gula melaka over refined sugars and incorporating fresh citrus zest makes this Old Fashioned a healthier beverage option. The use of less alcohol and more ice reduces overall calorie intake, making it suitable for those watching their weight or managing health goals. It’s a refreshing way to enjoy a classic cocktail with a Singaporean twist, without overindulging.
This Singaporean Old Fashioned is lighter in added sugar, using natural gula melaka for its lower GI and subtle caramel flavor. By moderating the whiskey and opting for plenty of ice and water, the calorie count is kept reasonable. The orange and lime zest add vitamin C and antioxidants, while pandan offers a unique fragrance without extra calories. This beverage is vegetarian, suitable for moderate consumption, and contains no dairy or gluten.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use fresh, high-quality citrus for the most vibrant aroma.
- 💡Tip 2: Dissolve gula melaka fully to avoid grainy texture.
- 💡Tip 3: Experiment with infusing pandan in the whiskey overnight for deeper flavor.
Storage & Serving
Best consumed fresh. If pre-mixing, store in a covered jug in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add ice and garnish only before serving.
Best served: Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 155.0 kcal |
| Protein | 0.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 7.0 g |
| Total Fat | 0.0 g |
| Fiber | 0.0 g |
Cultural Notes
While not a staple at hawker centres, the Old Fashioned is increasingly popular in elevated beverage stalls that cater to a younger crowd seeking classic cocktails alongside local food options.
