Tan’s Tutu Kueh

These are the best cakes I’ve found thus far in Singapore. Whereas others have been dry, falling apart, flavorless, and expensive, these ones are just right. The lady who makes them has the work down to a methodical science as she mesmerizingly crafts piece after piece. You can go with the coconut or the peanut filling at 5 pieces (can mix and match) for $ 3. The outside is an extremely thin white powder that becomes light and spongy when cooked. The fillings are like pastes with chunks of peanut or slices of coconut. Both are good. They make for a nice, light, not too sweet dessert.
The only downsides are that the place can be randomly open or closed on given days and the cakes take time to make. So be prepared to wait or come back if someone in front of you just ordered three takeaway containers.

This tiny little tutu kueh stall has been operating at the corner of Clementi Central right opposite the old Clementi Central building since at least 15 years ago. The old granny who used to operate the stall has since passed on the business to her daughter, but the family secret is still around! I used to go for swimming lessons at the nearby swimming complex, and take a short walk to this stall for 3 of their peanut tutu kuehs.
Although many may think that it’s just steaming flour powder into a specific shape, it takes skill to ensure that the filling is generous while making sure that it doesn’t overflow or spill out. This means there cannot be any cracks in the kueh as well. The aunties Tan have perfected the skill to making the perfect tutu kuehs, where its thick and chewy while soft and fragrant at the same time — a childhood favourite that makes me happy that it’s still around!

Foreign talents… wanna act like a Singaporean? First step. Eat this (It’s easier than learning Singlish)
Growing up in the clementi area, this shop holds a lot of fond memories. I use to trail along when my mother went grocery shopping in the area and I remember that I’ve been eating Kueh Tu Tu from this stall for years.
It’s only until I got older and started eating the same snack from other stalls that i realised the Clementi version had mystical powers. It tasted a lot better.
There might be queues once in a while but they generally don’t last that long. You get a choice of peanut or coconut filling. It’s 4 pieces for 2 bucks and I always mix them up. 2 of each. I don’t know why I do that, I prefer the coconut filling. Eat it while it’s hot!
Note: The carpark at clementi central is always full. Don’t be a lazy bum, it’ll be faster if you parked at the multi storey carpark across the street from NTUC Fairprice/​next to Clementi Indoor Sports Hall and walk that extra 3 minutes.

Tan’s Tutu Kueh is better than the average tutu kueh, although it is really difficult to pinpoint what exactly about this is so good. Firstly, the queue might be shaping one’s perception-​with a queue lining up for the kuehs most of the time, it does make them seem all the more appealing. Furthermore, the tutu kuehs do not come apart at the first bite, and is obviously well cooked. Grab 5 for the price of $ 2, and chomp it down as a snack while shopping in Clementi!