To the stallholder, the key to good rojak lies in quality ingredients.
Singapore, January 16, 2010
Hoover Rojak
Blk 90 Whampoa Drive
#01-06 Whampoa Drive Food Centre
If the number of scars borne by a soldier is testament to the many wars he has fought, then the odd-shaped stainless steel mixing spoon on Lim Ngah Chew's wall is proof of the countless servings of rojak he has whipped up in his career.
As he holds up the hard-worked spoon, the 64-year-old proudly says, 'It's not out of shape, it's just worn out.'
Since he started out at the age of 16, Mr Lim has always remained insistent that the key to good rojak lies in the ingredients.
This is why despite the perennial snaking queue (even during off-peak hours), the meticulous man can always be found at his stall chopping, slicing, dicing.
While some may dismiss rojak as a mixed up mess, Mr Lim knows better - each individual ingredient contributes to the experience.
This is why he soaks the jellyfish strips every day, just because it adds texture. He prefers older peanuts from India, for the aroma they give out after frying. Even the vegetable and fruit pieces are cut at an angle - for better bite.
Customers can add century eggs with custard-soft centres to their rojak for a dollar more - an unlikely combination that works surprisingly well.
Lest you should think this is an innovation, this was inspired many years ago by his love for century eggs - he has been known to fastidiously change suppliers if the quality is not up to scratch.
The otah here ($0.60 each), made by Mr Lim's sister - plump and mildly spicy - is also a popular buy.
The good news is that this is one rare hawker whose children are keen to continue his legacy.
At the moment, however, they only take the night shift as he stays put. He candidly says, 'They know that I won't know what else to do as this is my second life.'
Hoover Rojak
Blk 90 Whampoa Drive
#01-06 Whampoa Drive Food Centre
Tel 9021-4593
Open daily from 11am to 9.30pm
http://www.soshiok.com/critic/article/6537