How to Make Three Roast Combo Rice (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Three Roast Combo Rice is a beloved lunch staple in Singapore’s vibrant hawker centers and kopitiams. This dish showcases Singapore's multicultural heritage, combining succulent roast duck, tender roast chicken, and flavorful char siew (barbecued pork) atop fragrant steamed rice. The trio of roasted meats creates a harmony of textures and tastes, each with its own unique marinade and method, reflecting the rich culinary fusion found throughout Singapore. Originating from the bustling streets of Singapore, Three Roast Combo Rice is often enjoyed as a hearty lunch by office workers, families, and tourists seeking a taste of authentic local fare. The dish is renowned for its satisfying blend of savory, sweet, and umami notes, making it a favorite among locals. Traditionally served with a side of crunchy cucumber and tangy chili sauce, it’s both comforting and exciting, embodying the island’s love for diverse, flavorful food. By preparing a healthier version at home, you can savor the best of Singaporean hawker culture while keeping your meal balanced and nutritious.
Ingredients
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Marinate chicken breast
Marinate chicken breast, pork loin, and duck breast separately with light soy sauce, five-spice powder, garlic, and ginger. Add honey to pork for char siew, and an extra pinch of five-spice to duck.
Step 2 · Preheat oven to 200°C
Preheat oven to 200°C. Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Step 3 · Place meats on baking tray
Place meats on baking tray. Roast chicken and pork for 15 minutes. Roast duck for 18-20 minutes, turning once halfway.
Step 4 · While meats cook
While meats cook, steam brown rice until fluffy.
Step 5 · Slice cucumber and arrange on serving plates
Slice cucumber and arrange on serving plates.
Step 6 · Slice roasted meats thinly
Slice roasted meats thinly. Arrange duck, chicken, and char siew atop rice. Drizzle with a little extra soy sauce and serve with chili sauce.
Step 7 · Garnish with cucumber and serve immediately for best taste
Garnish with cucumber and serve immediately for best taste.
Why this recipe is healthy
By using lean meats and brown rice, this recipe cuts down on unhealthy fats and refined carbs common in traditional hawker versions. Roasting instead of frying helps maintain nutritional integrity, and the use of natural marinades avoids excess sugar or sodium. This balanced meal is ideal for calorie-conscious eaters, providing sustained energy and essential nutrients without sacrificing authentic Singaporean flavor.
A note on tradition
Three Roast Combo Rice is a signature offering in Singapore kopitiams and hawker centers, symbolizing the fusion of Cantonese roast traditions with local tastes. It’s typically enjoyed during lunch, especially by those craving variety and authentic flavors. Its popularity reflects Singapore's multicultural society, where dishes are adapted and shared across communities. The dish is not specifically associated with any festival, but is a daily favorite among locals.