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Vodka
Hawker • Singapore
About Vodka
Vodka is a clear distilled spirit, typically made from grains or potatoes, and enjoyed in both casual and celebratory settings across Singapore. While not a mainstay at all hawker centres, it appears at those with bar stalls or trendy beverage kiosks, usually served neat, over ice, or mixed into simple cocktails. You might find vodka offered by the glass, sometimes paired with mixers like soda or lime cordial. It's not considered a traditional hawker drink—more a modern addition responding to evolving tastes and the growing bar presence in some food halls. From a nutritional angle, vodka carries around 97 calories per 100g serving and is vegan by nature since it contains only fermented and distilled plant ingredients. Unlike sugary cocktails or rich hawker foods, vodka by itself contains virtually no carbohydrates, fats, or protein. Still, because alcohol is calorie-dense and doesn’t provide satiety, mindful consumption is advisable. Opting for vodka with soda water or on the rocks keeps the calorie count minimal, while mixing with sweet soft drinks or juices increases both sugar and overall calories. Standard pours in Singapore (generally 40-50ml) translate to about 39–48 kcal, so if you’re watching your intake, it’s wise to factor in both food and beverage choices when dining. Hydration is key—especially in Singapore’s humidity—so alternating vodka with water, or choosing a single drink with your meal, helps moderate alcohol and calorie intake. Vodka is not a nutritional powerhouse, but in moderation, it can be part of the vibrant beverage culture found in some hawker spots.
How to Make Vodka (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Vodka, while not traditionally Singaporean, has found its place in the vibrant local beverage scene, especially with the city's love for inventive fusion drinks. In Singapore’s bustling hawker centres and trendy kopitiams, bartenders and beverage stalls have reimagined vodka with a local twist by infusing it with tropical fruits and herbs native to the region. This healthy version balances the clean, crisp notes of vodka with refreshing flavours, making it a popular choice for those seeking a light and sophisticated drink to complement Singapore’s warm weather. The appeal of vodka in Singapore lies in its versatility and ability to blend seamlessly with the multicultural flavours that define the city-state’s cuisine. From rooftop bars overlooking Marina Bay to hidden gems in Haji Lane, vodka-based drinks are a staple at gatherings and celebrations. By incorporating local ingredients such as pandan, calamansi, and lemongrass, this recipe pays homage to Singapore’s dynamic fusion culture while offering a lighter, healthier take on a classic beverage. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet evening, this Singaporean Vodka recipe is sure to impress with its unique blend of tradition and innovation.
Ingredients(for 1 glass (about 200ml) per serving)
- 90ml Vodka (choose a clean, high-quality vodka)
- 30ml Fresh calamansi juice (local lime juice)
- 2 leaves Pandan leaves (screwpine, tied into knots)
- 1 stalk Lemongrass stalk (lightly bruised)
- 200ml Sparkling water (unsweetened)
- 1 tsp Stevia or monk fruit sweetener (optional, adjust to taste) - optional
- as needed Ice cubes (for serving)
- a few sprigs Mint leaves (for garnish) - optional
- 4 slices Sliced cucumber (for garnish) - optional
- 1 small, finely sliced Chili padi (bird’s eye chili) (optional, for a spicy kick) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Prepare pandan and lemongrass by tying pandan leaves into knots and bruising the lemongrass stalk to release aromas.
3 minutes
Knotted pandan leaves infuse more flavour and are easier to remove later.
- 2
In a shaker or large glass, add vodka, fresh calamansi juice, pandan leaves, and lemongrass. Let it infuse for 10 minutes.
10 minutes
Infusing longer enhances the local aroma and taste.
- 3
Remove pandan leaves and lemongrass. Add stevia or monk fruit sweetener if desired for a touch of sweetness.
1 minute
Taste before adding sweetener; local calamansi can be sweet-sour.
- 4
Fill serving glasses with ice cubes and add cucumber slices and mint leaves for extra freshness.
2 minutes
Use clear ice for an elegant presentation.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Choosing vodka with fresh local ingredients and skipping sugar-laden mixers helps reduce empty calories, making this recipe a healthier alternative for cocktail lovers. The infusion of herbs and citrus lends natural flavour without the need for artificial additives. This beverage fits well into a balanced diet and supports hydration, especially when enjoyed in moderation.
This Singaporean Vodka recipe is designed to be light and refreshing, using natural, low-calorie ingredients such as calamansi, pandan, and lemongrass. By opting for sparkling water instead of sugary mixers, and offering stevia or monk fruit as sweetener alternatives, this drink keeps carbohydrates and total calories lower than traditional cocktails. Calamansi is rich in vitamin C, mint and cucumber offer antioxidants, and lemongrass can aid digestion. This makes it a suitable choice for mindful drinkers watching their macros.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Pre-chill your glasses for an extra refreshing experience.
- 💡Tip 2: Use freshly squeezed calamansi for the most authentic flavour.
- 💡Tip 3: Adjust sweetness and spice to suit your personal taste or dietary goals.
Storage & Serving
Infused vodka can be prepared up to 8 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Assemble with sparkling water and garnish only when ready to serve. Best consumed fresh.
Best served: Lunch or Dinner
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 97.0 kcal |
Cultural Notes
Vodka is not a heritage hawker beverage, but is increasingly found in hawker centres with bar stalls or modern food hall concepts. Its presence reflects changing drinking habits and the fusion of hawker and contemporary bar cultures in Singapore.
