This week, I’m diving into the delicious world of deep-fried goodies at Changi Village Hawker Centre before embarking on a long walk along the Eastern Coastal Loop. If you’re a fan of battered, deep-fried bananas and other sinful snacks, then this is the place to be. The stall with the crazy long line has been around for a whopping 40 years, but the guy in charge now, Andy Cheng, has only been at it for less than a year. Talk about a rookie sensation!
Traditional Million Star Fried Banana has a fascinating backstory that matches the allure of its secret batter recipe. It’s a revival of a legacy left behind by 82-year-old Wendy Chan, who used to run the show with her husband and son. After facing some tough times and losing her loved ones, she was struggling to keep the business afloat until Cheng stepped in. Coming from a background in luxury retail, Cheng never thought he’d end up frying bananas for a living. But life has its twists and turns, and here he is, flipping fritters like a champ.
When Cheng first tried the goreng pisang, he was blown away. So much so that he offered to help out and ended up learning the ropes from Chan herself. After a few months of training, he took over the reins and has been serving up crispy treats ever since. The journey wasn’t easy, though. Cheng admits to making plenty of mistakes in the beginning, but he persevered, and now he’s the master of the wok.
The signature dish, goreng pisang, is a must-try. Made with the finest Pisang Raja bananas from Malaysia, each fritter is a perfect balance of crispy and creamy. Cheng’s secret batter recipe ensures that every bite is a symphony of flavors, with just the right amount of sweetness and crunch. And if you’re feeling adventurous, give the banana ball a shot. It may not be the prettiest snack, but it’s definitely one of their bestsellers.
As I savored each bite of these deep-fried delights, I couldn’t help but appreciate the care and dedication that goes into making them. Cheng’s commitment to quality ingredients and traditional methods shines through in every dish. And let’s not forget about the special concoction that Chan provides when the batter supply runs low. It’s a testament to her culinary prowess and Cheng’s willingness to learn from the best.
With my belly full and my spirits high, I set out on the Eastern Coastal Loop, ready to conquer the 22km trail ahead. The journey was challenging but rewarding, with plenty of pit stops along the way. From Changi Point Bridge to East Coast Park, every step was an adventure. And as I reached Bedok Jetty, I couldn’t help but think about Cheng’s words of wisdom.
“Tradition mixed with a bit of creativity and fun,” he said, pointing to the colorful stall front. And he’s right. The happiness that comes from good food and good company is truly unmatched. So, if you ever find yourself in Changi Village, make sure to swing by Traditional Million Star Fried Banana for a taste of their crispy creations.
Location: 2 Changi Village Rd, #01-35, Changi Village Hawker Centre, Singapore 500002
Opening Hours: 10am to 5pm (Closed on Mondays and Thursdays, depending on fruit season)
Remember, happy food equals a happy heart. So go ahead, indulge in some deep-fried goodness and savor the flavors of life. Bon appétit!
