Discover the Healthy Delight of Rice Dumplings with a Modern Twist

Bak Chang Image for Press ReleaseLeft: Chef Cindy Low with participants, proudly showcasing their Bak Chang creations. 
Right: Participants carefully wrapped Bak Chang with bamboo leaves as they shared a bonding moment in the demonstration studio. 

Singapore, 11 June 2024 – Bak Chang, also known as Rice Dumpling (粽子), boasts a long-standing history dating back to ancient China's Warring States period. Nevertheless, in modern society, it's commonly associated with high-fat ingredients such as fatty pork and salted egg, particularly among millennials and Gen Z. But did you know that there are ways to create a healthy version of Bak Chang?

We have recently wrapped up our final Bak Chang festive workshop at SHATEC Orchard. During this engaging 5-hour session, participants didn't just master the craft of making traditional Kee Chang (碱水粽) and Nyonya Chang (娘惹粽); they embarked on a culinary journey enriched with health-conscious choices. Leading the charge was our resident Chef Cindy, whose careful selection of blue pea flowers not only added a vibrant natural colour to the Nyonya Chang but also packed a punch of health benefits. From boosting metabolism to aiding digestion and even combating diabetes, blue pea flowers are the superfood of choice for a healthier diet.

Soy sauce is one of the staples in Bak Chang preparation, yet it's worth noting that soy sauce often carries a high sodium content, which over time can contribute to elevated blood pressure. However, participants were introduced to DoYouBo soy sauce, crafted from non-GMO soybeans grown in the fertile soils of Taiwan. With its natural flavour and absence of added sugars, this soy sauce not only enriches the taste of dishes but also prioritises health.

Similar to our Chef Cindy’s recipes, one can select healthier filling options like shiitake mushrooms and candied melon strips to infuse a sweet flavour into the Bak Chang. Not only do these additions enhance the taste, but they also provide a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

"The course was easy to understand and follow, with good tips regarding using lower salt content soy sauce for added flavour, as well as boneless chicken leg as a healthier protein option instead of pork," stated participant Melissa Fann, Founder of The Wellness Insider.

Chef Cindy led participants through each step of the elaborate Bak Chang making process, ensuring that everyone could easily follow along. The cozy and well-lit demonstration studio, furnished with modern kitchen technology, facilitated effective learning for those eager to pick up new culinary skills.

"Making Bak Changs for the first time was a delightful experience thanks to Chef Cindy's clear guidance. The atmosphere at SHATEC Orchard feels just like my own kitchen, which sets it apart from other culinary schools," shared participant Luke Elijah, a Spiritual Coach and Holistic Healer.

This workshop wasn't merely about mastering recipes; it is where tradition seamlessly merged with innovation to pave the way for a healthier tomorrow. By embracing wholesome ingredients and mindful cooking techniques, we not only honour our culinary heritage but also empower individuals to make informed choices that nourish both body and soul.

Although our Bak Chang workshop has concluded, health-conscious learners eager to learn a culinary skill can still choose from our current offerings like Plant-Based Yummylicious Goodness and The Essence of Water. To learn more about SHATEC Orchard upcoming courses, click here for more information.


About SHATEC

SHATEC was set up in 1983 by the Singapore Hotel Association to equip Singapore’s hospitality industry with a skilled workforce. Since then, SHATEC has distinguished itself as arguably Singapore’s most recognised hospitality management school with many of its 40,000 strong alumni in more than 20 countries helming key positions in the hospitality and tourism industry.

It is a strong advocate of creative teaching methods. Lessons and programmes at SHATEC are further enhanced by exposing learners to experiential learning that is as close to a working environment as possible. Students also reap the benefit of interacting with local and international instructors and guest speakers who eagerly share a wealth of knowledge in their respective fields and impart important people-to-people skills gleaned from experience.

Besides nurturing young minds and talents, SHATEC is also a key player in preparing career switchers and mature workers to join the hospitality industry. As the industry school, it offers a myriad of programmes and workshops to upskill practitioners in the hospitality industry.

Learners looking to upskill or discover their passion, SHATEC Orchard offers an exciting repertoire of short courses in both professional and lifestyle programs. Our Professional Series is thoughtfully designed to equip learners with the expertise and competencies to excel in your hospitality and/or food services industry careers, fostering a strong sense of confidence and competence.

For those with a passion for lifestyle learning, we offer a diverse range of courses, from the art of cooking and baking to the sophistication of wine appreciation and more, our Lifestyle Series provides you with the opportunity to turn those dreams into lifelong skills through Reimagined Authentic Learning.

Discover your REAL passion with SHATEC Orchard today!

For more information on SHATEC Orchard, visit our website here.