BOTANICT – Vegetarian Nyonya Delights in Bukit Batok

I was intrigued when my friend raved about BOTANICT, a haven for plant-based food enthusiasts. Upon stepping into this cozy eatery, I was greeted with a menu that boasted a delightful fusion of Nyonya, Indonesian, and Western vegetarian delights.

The owners, who have been long-time vegetarians, recognized the lack of exciting options in the vegetarian food scene. Thus, they embarked on the journey of creating BOTANICT, a place where delicious and cruelty-free meals abound.

What distinguishes BOTANICT from other vegetarian eateries is their dedication to offering allium-free dishes. Understanding that dishes without onion and garlic can sometimes lack depth of flavour, they ingeniously incorporate a myriad of herbs and spices to compensate. Despite the challenge, they successfully introduced vegetarian Nyonya cuisine to their menu.

One dish that truly stole my heart was the Vegetarian Nyonya Curry Assam Fish ($13.80). Despite being meat-free, it still captured the essence of the traditional dish beautifully. The tofu or mock fish soaked up the tangy and aromatic curry sauce, while the addition of long beans, tomatoes, and onions provided a burst of freshness. Each spoonful of the gravy was refreshing, with just the right balance of spice and a tantalizing hint of sourness stemming from the presence of tamarind.

Two other Peranakan dishes I had the pleasure of trying were the Ayam Buah Keluak ($16.80) and Ayam Rendang ($13.80). The former boasted a luscious, earthy sauce with nutty undertones from the buah keluak, while the latter dazzled with a harmonious blend of lemongrass, galangal, and turmeric. The plant-based “chicken” was tender and absorbed the intricate blend of spices perfectly — a dish that was both comforting and satisfying with just a bowl of fragrant rice.

Another standout was the Vegetarian Crispy Omelette ($10.80). Crispy on the outside yet soft on the inside, it was generously filled with mushrooms that added a delightful earthy flavour. The accompanying chilli sauce added a delightful kick to every bite.

To say I was impressed by the offerings at BOTANICT would be an understatement. The flavours of the Peranakan dishes were vibrant and authentic, and the crispy omelette was an absolute showstopper. Needless to say, I’m already planning my next trip back to try more of their vegetarian creations!