It’s no secret us Singaporeans love our food. Food is the one thing that brings people together, gives strangers a common topic to talk about, is a source of comfort following a terrible breakup. Do you travel across the island (or across the Causeway!) to satisfy a food craving? Sacrifice a couple hours of your precious weekend queueing at your favorite food joint? Are you guilty of bribing the elderly stall owner to part with her lip-numbing belacan secret recipe? Well, it’s time to bring your love of food to a whole new level with Batch.
Founded by prolific BT food writer Debbie Yong, Batch is a digital farmers’ market and info resource celebrating small-batch and independent producers. The appreciation of artisanal food is on the rise in Singapore with communities such as Secret Cooks Club increasing awareness, hence the launch of this platform to connect small-batch foodmakers and kitchen artisans with like-minded foodies is timely. I hope you have high expectations because you can expect nothing but the best nosh, gadgets and gizmos aplenty (sorry couldn’t help the Little Mermaid reference!). Perfectionists will love how every single product is handcrafted with pride, passion, and painstaking attention to detail. Bask in the assurance every item that finds its place on the website has Debbie’s stamp of approval. You’d trust the palate of someone who has a semi-permanent perch by the kitchen counters of Singapore’s top restaurants and bars, wouldn’t you?
My views very much align with Batch’s aim to build a sustainable lifestyle around living and eating well. We need to learn how to respect the food nourishing our body. As Singaporeans, it is our obligation to support local talent. If we don’t, who will? I’m not asking you to cut ties with your choice mass producer of food, but perhaps consider a local alternative. You’ll also be reducing your carbon footprint and doing your part for the environment (think of the poor polar bears and their melting icebergs…)!
In view of the upcoming festive season, Batch has curated six beautiful gift sets. IMO that’s reason enough to beat the crowds, do your Christmas shopping early, and surprise your loved ones with unique gifts–with all the convenience of online shopping. I’m really liking the Sugar, Spice and Everything Nice gift box. There’s something for every price point and tendency–you’ll be spoilt for choice.
My picks from Batch:
- Cranberry Almond Granola. Best for compulsive snackers like myself who get hungry every other hour.
- Dark Cocoa Blend. Add into your smoothie, mix yourself a homemade face mask, or perhaps a cup of good ole’ hot chocolate.
- Sambal Tumis. In my book, no meal is complete without chili.
- Pure Vanilla Extract. Slightly pricier than Whittingtons Natural Vanilla Extract I like to use when I bake, but hey this is organic!
- Sea Cave Bowl. The perfect accompaniment to your morning Acai bowl.
- Scoop Pot. There’s nothing like having a pretty scoop to measure out ingredients.
- Png Kueh Wristlet. Honestly considering buying this for my Grams when she heads to the market. Pretty sure all her friends are going to want one too.
- Ryan Clift Damascus Chef Knives. One word, lust-worthy. I can’t get over how intricately beautiful these blades are! Putting this at the top of my potential housewarming gift list.
Now you’ve seen my picks, leave me a comment and share yours!
This is the one time you shouldn’t go big or go home. Like Batch on Facebook, and follow them on Instagram for daily updates.
P.S.: All orders placed from now till the end of November enjoy free delivery. Additionally, Batch is currently holding a giveaway to celebrate their launch you shouldn’t miss if you’re a Sake lover. Like Batch and share this post (make sure you set it to public!) to win a handcrafted Black Sake Cup Set (currently OOS on the site) worth SGD60 by local ceramist Zestro Leow. The giveaway closes in four days on, 1 Dec so don’t tarry!
