Roti john

Roti John is a type of sandwich originating from Malaysia and Singapore. It is a popular street food in these regions and is also commonly found in other Southeast Asian countries. The name "Roti John" is derived from the term "roti" which means bread in Hindi, and "John", a colloquial term used in Singapore and Malaysia to refer to Westerners.

History

The Roti John is believed to have been created in the 1960s or 1970s. The exact origin of the dish is unclear, but it is widely believed to have been invented by a street vendor in Singapore. The vendor was trying to create a dish that would appeal to the British soldiers stationed in Singapore, hence the name "John", a common name in Britain.

Preparation

The Roti John is made by spreading a mixture of minced meat (usually mutton, chicken, or beef), onions, egg, tomato-chilli sauce, and a blend of spices onto a baguette or other type of long bread. The bread is then grilled or pan-fried until the egg mixture is fully cooked and the bread is crispy. The sandwich is typically cut into smaller pieces before serving.

Variations

There are many variations of the Roti John, with different ingredients used in the filling. Some versions include cheese, mayonnaise, or sardines. In addition, the type of bread used can also vary, with some versions using baguettes, while others use local breads.

Cultural Significance

The Roti John is a significant part of the street food culture in Malaysia and Singapore. It is often consumed as a quick meal or snack, and is particularly popular during the Ramadan period, when it is commonly sold at bazaars.

See Also

• Malaysian cuisine
• Singaporean cuisine
• Street food