Every year on 9 August, Singapore comes together to honour unity, diversity, and our love for good food. In homes and on festive tables, shared meals highlight how local traditions and global influences shape what brings us joy. Amid these favourites, the classic pairing of a French baguette with rich chicken curry stands out as a dish that feels both special and comforting.
The story of the baguette in Singapore starts in the early 20th century, long before French bakeries became familiar sights. Older Singaporeans still remember the term “roti perancis” (French bread) used by their parents and grandparents at wet markets and hawker stalls. It was a simple loaf, crusty outside and soft inside, that made its way into breakfasts and light suppers.
During World War II, there was a scarcity of wheat flour due to import disruptions. Fresh loaves became rare treats, and creative home cooks made do with sweet potatoes and tapioca until supplies returned.
When wheat flour once again flowed into the city, “roti perancis” grew even more popular, valued for its satisfying crumb and ability to soak up robust curries.
True French-style baguettes arrived in Singapore in the 1980s, when pioneers like Délifrance opened their first bakeries.
For many, tasting a warm Délifrance baguette fresh from the oven was a revelation: crisp, airy, and deeply flavourful, just like in Paris. Customers lined up for a taste, and soon local cafés and households were serving genuine French baguettes with their favourite local dishes. This included (most memorably) a big bowl of spicy chicken curry.
For us (and many Singaporeans too) the joy of tearing a Délifrance baguette by hand, sharing it at the table, and using it to mop up every last spoonful of curry is something to look forward to.
This ritual has continued to inspire generations, blending the best of French technique with unmistakable Singaporean taste.
Pairing baguette with curry fits easily into daily life, but it is also popular for celebrations.
Breakfast at the kopitiam or a family dinner for National Day, this simple pairing brings people together. The contrast between the crunchy crust and the smooth, spicy curry is at the heart of its appeal.
The “baguette and curry” tradition has become an everyday favourite, appreciated for its practicality and the way it evokes nostalgia. For many, it isn’t just a meal but a reminder of shared meals at bustling hawker centres or quiet moments in family kitchens.
Looking to share this classic at your next gathering? Add a Délifrance baguette to your meal and discover how well it goes with homemade curry.
More recently, cafés and home cooks have given the baguette and curry pairing new life. From vegetarian renditions to regional Peranakan, Nyonya, or Rendang curries, creativity shapes each spin. Some cafés serve sliced, lightly toasted Délifrance baguette with small batches of different curries, inviting diners to discover pairings beyond chicken curry.
Délifrance’s reputation in Singapore, both in bakeries and cafés, has made its baguette a reliable pick for those wanting to try something familiar in a new way.
For those enjoying a family feast or hosting friends for National Day, a fresh Délifrance baguette keeps tradition close while opening up fresh possibilities.
Ready to try a new spin? Let a fresh Délifrance baguette bring out the best in your favourite curry.
The story of baguette and curry is at the heart of what makes Singaporean food culture so distinctive, taking something global and making it a cherished local tradition.
Either at a festive National Day table or an everyday breakfast with family, this pairing is a quiet celebration of togetherness and simple pleasures.
Celebrate Singapore’s vibrant food culture this National Day with a Délifrance baguette and a bowl of your favourite curry, available at stores islandwide or online.
KEY FEATURES:
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION:
2 Half Baguettes (~160g each)
These half baguettes represent some of the best ingredients Délifrance has to offer! Drawing on artisan inspired techniques, serve the essence of baking with ease.
PERFECT FOR:
Slicing thickly and serving with a bowl of local curry or hot soup. We also love making some bruschetta with beautiful ripe tomatoes.
BAKING INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Pre heat your oven to 190 degrees Celsius
2. Place the frozen products on the baking grid
3. Bake for 8 - 10 minutes until a nice golden colour
4. Let them cool for ~10 minutes before serving
5. Bon appetit!
Never re-freeze the baguettes once thawed. If not preparing to bake immediately, keep in freezer at -18 degrees Celsius.
INGREDIENT NOTES:
0 Item(s)
