The Massage Directory
List of massage spas in Singapore. Presented in a table format with their names, locations, operating hours, prices, and contact information
Massage Spa Singapore 2025
Author: Jon
Birth rate of these country – 2023
The birth rate of a country refers to the number of live births per 1,000 people in a given year. Countries with higher birth rates generally have younger populations and lower levels of economic development, while countries with lower birth rates often have older populations and higher levels of urbanization.
Here’s a list of countries with high birth rates (typically above 30 births per 1,000 people) to low birth rates (under 10 births per 1,000 people). These rankings are based on the most recent data available, which may be from around 2022-2023, but it can vary year by year.
Countries with the Highest Birth Rates (Above 30 births per 1,000 people):
- Niger – 46.5
- Mali – 44.0
- Chad – 43.7
- Uganda – 42.7
- Burundi – 42.5
- South Sudan – 41.9
- Sierra Leone – 41.6
- Somalia – 41.4
- Congo (Democratic Republic) – 40.8
- Zambia – 39.7
Countries with High Birth Rates (25-30 births per 1,000 people):
- Ethiopia – 38.4
- Nigeria – 37.9
- Tanzania – 37.2
- Liberia – 36.8
- Malawi – 36.7
- Mozambique – 36.2
- Gabon – 35.7
- Ghana – 35.1
- Kenya – 34.8
- Rwanda – 33.9
Countries with Moderate Birth Rates (15-25 births per 1,000 people):
- India – 20.0
- Indonesia – 19.8
- Brazil – 15.9
- Egypt – 22.7
- Pakistan – 26.4
- Philippines – 25.4
- Bangladesh – 18.0
- Vietnam – 18.1
- Thailand – 13.6
- Mexico – 18.2
Countries with Low Birth Rates (10-15 births per 1,000 people):
- China – 10.5
- Turkey – 14.5
- United States – 11.4
- South Africa – 12.6
- Malaysia – 13.0
- Saudi Arabia – 12.2
- Argentina – 15.0
- Chile – 13.3
- Colombia – 12.8
- Russia – 10.0
Countries with Very Low Birth Rates (Under 10 births per 1,000 people):
- Japan – 7.0
- Italy – 7.2
- Germany – 8.2
- Spain – 8.3
- South Korea – 5.9
- Portugal – 8.6
- Greece – 8.0
- Hungary – 9.0
- Poland – 9.2
- Finland – 8.7
Key Observations:
- Countries with High Birth Rates: Most of these are in Sub-Saharan Africa, where economic development is often slower, healthcare improvements are still in progress, and fertility rates remain high due to cultural, social, and economic factors.
- Countries with Low Birth Rates: Europe and East Asia have some of the lowest birth rates in the world, driven by factors such as economic uncertainty, aging populations, high living costs, and changing social norms.
- Declining Birth Rates: Many developed countries, particularly in Europe and parts of East Asia (e.g., Japan and South Korea), are experiencing population aging, with birth rates falling below replacement levels, leading to concerns about labor shortages and the strain on social support systems.
Let me know if you’d like additional details or a more focused analysis on a particular region or country!
Singapore is an interesting case when it comes to birth rates. It has one of the lowest birth rates in the world.
Birth Rate of Singapore:
- Birth rate: Around 8.4 births per 1,000 people (2023 estimate).
This is significantly below the replacement level fertility of about 2.1 births per woman, which is necessary to maintain a stable population without relying on immigration.
Factors Contributing to Singapore’s Low Birth Rate:
- High Cost of Living:
Singapore is one of the most expensive cities in the world, with high housing costs, education expenses, and general living costs. This has contributed to the trend of people delaying marriage or choosing not to have children at all. - Economic Focus:
Singapore’s economy is highly developed, with a focus on careers and professional development. Many individuals and couples prioritize education and career over starting families, especially given the pressures of working long hours and the high cost of childcare. - Urbanization:
As an urbanized society, many Singaporeans live in small apartments, which might not be conducive to having larger families. Limited space and high living costs are factors that discourage larger families. - Changing Social Norms:
Like many other developed countries, there has been a shift in social norms, with many younger Singaporeans delaying marriage or choosing to remain single. Additionally, women are increasingly prioritizing their careers and personal aspirations. - Government Policies and Incentives:
The government has recognized the low birth rate as a significant challenge and has introduced various measures to try to encourage more births, such as:- Baby Bonus Scheme: Financial incentives for couples who have children.
- Parental Leave: Policies like paid parental leave and maternity benefits.
- Affordable Childcare: Subsidized childcare services to support working parents.
- Aging Population:
Singapore has one of the oldest populations in the world, and with such a low birth rate, the country’s population is aging rapidly. This raises concerns about the sustainability of the workforce, social services, and the economy.
Consequences of the Low Birth Rate:
- Labor Force Shortages:
With fewer young people entering the workforce, Singapore has faced challenges in maintaining its labor force. This has been partly addressed through immigration policies that encourage foreign workers, but it’s still a growing concern. - Aging Population:
The aging population places increased pressure on healthcare services and pension systems, as a smaller working-age population will need to support a growing elderly population. - Dependency on Immigration:
To maintain population growth, Singapore relies heavily on immigration, especially for both skilled and unskilled labor. This has led to demographic changes and some social tensions related to the integration of foreign workers.
Policy Responses to Low Birth Rate:
In recent years, Singapore’s government has implemented a variety of policies to try to reverse the low birth rate:
- Financial Incentives:
- The Baby Bonus Scheme, which provides cash incentives and tax relief for parents.
- Housing Subsidies: Special housing grants for young couples to help them afford homes.
- Childcare Subsidies: Government subsidies to make childcare more affordable for working parents.
- Pro-family Policies:
- Paid maternity leave and paternity leave to encourage both parents to take an active role in raising children.
- Work-life balance initiatives to help people manage both their careers and family life more effectively.
- Encouraging Marriage:
- Various programs aimed at encouraging marriage at a younger age, such as matchmaking services run by the government, marriage preparation courses, and incentives for couples who marry young.
Despite these policies, birth rates have continued to remain low, and it’s become an ongoing challenge for the country’s long-term sustainability.
In summary, Singapore’s low birth rate is a result of a combination of economic, social, and demographic factors. While the government has implemented various strategies to address the issue, it remains a pressing concern as the country faces the dual challenge of an aging population and a shrinking workforce.
10 ways to a passive income
If you have limited initial investment but still want to explore passive income options, here are some accessible ideas:
1. Cashback and Rewards Programs
- Description: Earn cashback or rewards by using specific credit cards or shopping through cashback portals.
- Example Platforms: Rakuten, Swagbucks, Credit Card Cashback Programs
2. Affiliate Marketing
- Description: Promote products or services through affiliate links on a blog or social media. Earn commissions on sales made through your links.
- Example Platforms: Amazon Associates, ShareASale, CJ Affiliate
3. Create and Sell Printables
- Description: Design digital products like planners, journals, or worksheets and sell them online. Once created, they can be sold repeatedly.
- Example Platforms: Etsy, Gumroad, Canva
4. Start a Blog
- Description: Write about topics you’re passionate about. Monetize through ads, affiliate marketing, or sponsored posts.
- Example Platforms: WordPress, Blogger, Medium
5. Invest in Index Funds or ETFs
- Description: Invest small amounts in diversified index funds or exchange-traded funds (ETFs) which typically require lower initial investments compared to individual stocks.
- Example Platforms: Vanguard, Fidelity, Robinhood
6. Sell Photos Online
- Description: If you have a knack for photography, upload and sell your photos on stock photo websites.
- Example Platforms: Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, iStock
7. Peer-to-Peer Lending (with Low Initial Investment)
- Description: Invest small amounts in peer-to-peer lending platforms to earn interest on your loans.
- Example Platforms: Prosper, LendingClub
8. Write and Publish eBooks
- Description: Write and self-publish eBooks on platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing. Initial costs are low, and you can earn royalties over time.
- Example Platforms: Amazon KDP, Smashwords
9. Create an Online Course
- Description: Develop an online course on a subject you’re knowledgeable about. Platforms handle the sales and distribution.
- Example Platforms: Udemy, Teachable, Skillshare
10. Rent Out a Spare Room or Property
- Description: If you have extra space in your home, rent it out short-term through platforms like Airbnb.
- Example Platforms: Airbnb, Vrbo
Tips for Getting Started with Limited Resources:
- Leverage Free Tools: Use free design tools like Canva for creating printables or course materials, and free blogging platforms to start your blog.
- Start Small: Begin with a small investment or low-cost projects and gradually scale as you earn more.
- Utilize Free Learning Resources: Access free online courses or tutorials to build skills that can help you in your passive income ventures.
- Focus on Quality: Whether it’s content creation or product design, ensure high quality to increase your chances of success.
By starting with low-cost or no-cost passive income streams, you can gradually build your income over time without a significant upfront investment.
5 ways to Make $200 a day
Making $200 a day can be achieved through various methods depending on your skills, resources, and interests. Here’s a step-by-step guide for several popular approaches:
1. Freelancing
Step 1: Identify Your Skills
- Assess your skills in writing, graphic design, web development, marketing, etc.
Step 2: Create a Portfolio
- Build a portfolio showcasing your best work. You can use platforms like Behance or create your own website.
Step 3: Join Freelance Platforms
- Sign up on sites like Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer. Create a compelling profile and start applying for jobs.
Step 4: Set Your Rates
- Determine your hourly or project-based rates. Aim for rates that will allow you to earn $200 a day. For example, if you charge $50 per hour, you’d need to work 4 hours a day.
Step 5: Network and Market Yourself
- Use social media and professional networks to promote your services. Join relevant groups and forums.
2. Online Tutoring
Step 1: Identify Your Expertise
- Choose subjects you are knowledgeable in or have a teaching qualification for.
Step 2: Register on Tutoring Platforms
- Sign up on platforms like VIPKid, Chegg Tutors, or Wyzant.
Step 3: Create a Strong Profile
- Highlight your qualifications, experience, and teaching style.
Step 4: Set Your Availability
- Determine how many hours you can work each day to reach your $200 goal. For example, if you charge $40 per hour, you need to work 5 hours.
Step 5: Market Your Services
- Promote your tutoring services on social media, educational forums, and through word-of-mouth.
3. Dropshipping
Step 1: Research Niche Products
- Find trending products with good profit margins. Tools like Google Trends or Amazon Best Sellers can help.
Step 2: Choose a Supplier
- Use platforms like AliExpress, Oberlo, or SaleHoo to find reliable suppliers.
Step 3: Create an Online Store
- Set up an eCommerce site using Shopify, WooCommerce, or another platform.
Step 4: Market Your Store
- Use social media marketing, Google Ads, and SEO to drive traffic to your store.
Step 5: Optimize and Scale
- Track your sales, analyze data, and make adjustments to improve your store’s performance. Aim to achieve a profit margin that helps you reach $200 a day.
4. Content Creation
Step 1: Choose Your Platform
- Decide whether you want to focus on YouTube, blogging, podcasting, etc.
Step 2: Create Valuable Content
- Produce high-quality content that appeals to your target audience.
Step 3: Build an Audience
- Promote your content through social media, SEO, and collaborations.
Step 4: Monetize Your Content
- Use methods such as ad revenue, sponsorships, affiliate marketing, or selling products/services.
Step 5: Analyze and Adjust
- Monitor your earnings and audience engagement to make improvements.
5. Gig Economy Jobs
Step 1: Choose a Gig Platform
- Sign up for platforms like Uber, DoorDash, or TaskRabbit.
Step 2: Set Your Schedule
- Determine your working hours and how many gigs you need to complete to make $200 a day.
Step 3: Optimize Your Work
- Find the most profitable gigs or routes and work during peak hours to maximize earnings.
Step 4: Track Your Income
- Keep track of your daily earnings and adjust your strategy as needed.
Step 5: Scale Your Efforts
- If possible, take on additional gigs or work longer hours to consistently reach your goal.
General Tips:
- Set Clear Goals: Define how much you need to work and at what rate to reach $200 a day.
- Stay Organized: Manage your time effectively and keep track of your earnings and expenses.
- Adapt and Improve: Continuously seek ways to optimize and improve your methods.
By following these steps and choosing the method that best suits your skills and circumstances, you can work towards making $200 a day.
Ulitmate Guide to Dropshipping For beginner Introduction
Introduction:
Welcome to the Ultimate Guide to Dropshipping for Beginners! Whether you’re looking to start a side hustle or launch a full-scale online business, dropshipping offers an accessible and low-risk way to enter the world of ecommerce. This comprehensive guide will take you through everything you need to know, from understanding the basics to mastering advanced strategies. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge and tools to build a successful dropshipping business.
FULL VERSION of The Ultimate Guide to Dropshipping For beginner.
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Chapter 1: What is Dropshipping?
- Definition and concept of dropshipping
- How dropshipping differs from traditional retail
- Pros and cons of dropshipping
Chapter 2: Why Choose Dropshipping?
- Advantages of dropshipping for beginners
- Common misconceptions about dropshipping
- Is dropshipping right for you?
Chapter 3: Getting Started: Setting Up Your Dropshipping Business
- Choosing a niche market
- Researching product demand and competition
- Legal considerations and business registration
Chapter 4: Finding Reliable Suppliers
- Where to find dropshipping suppliers
- How to evaluate suppliers and products
- Negotiating with suppliers
Chapter 5: Building Your Dropshipping Website
- Platforms for building your online store (e.g., Shopify, WooCommerce)
- Designing a user-friendly website
- Adding products and setting up payment gateways
Chapter 6: Product Selection Strategies
- Choosing profitable products to sell
- Testing products without investing heavily
- Strategies for sourcing unique products
Chapter 7: Marketing Your Dropshipping Business
- Developing a marketing strategy
- Social media marketing tactics
- Search engine optimization (SEO) basics
Chapter 8: Customer Acquisition and Retention
- Techniques for attracting customers
- Building trust and credibility
- Strategies for customer retention
Chapter 9: Managing Orders and Inventory
- Order fulfillment process
- Inventory management tools and techniques
- Dealing with returns and customer service
Chapter 10: Handling Payments and Finances
- Setting pricing and profit margins
- Managing cash flow in dropshipping
- Accounting and tax considerations
Chapter 11: Scaling Your Dropshipping Business
- Strategies for scaling your operations
- Outsourcing and automating tasks
- Expanding your product range and market reach
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Chapter 12: Dealing with Challenges and Pitfalls
- Common challenges in dropshipping
- How to overcome competition
- Handling customer complaints and disputes
Chapter 13: Advanced Dropshipping Strategies
- Cross-selling and upselling techniques
- Leveraging email marketing for repeat business
- Using analytics to optimize performance
Chapter 14: Legal and Ethical Considerations
- Protecting intellectual property rights
- Understanding consumer protection laws
- Ethical considerations in dropshipping
Chapter 15: International Dropshipping
- Expanding globally with dropshipping
- Dealing with currency exchange and shipping logistics
- Legal and regulatory issues in international markets
Chapter 16: Future Trends in Dropshipping
- Emerging technologies and their impact
- Predictions for the future of ecommerce and dropshipping
- Adapting to market changes and innovations
Chapter 17: Case Studies of Successful Dropshippers
- Real-life examples of successful dropshipping businesses
- Key takeaways and lessons learned
Chapter 18: Building Your Brand
- Creating a unique brand identity
- Branding strategies for dropshipping businesses
- Building customer loyalty
Chapter 19: Managing Customer Expectations
- Setting clear expectations for shipping and delivery
- Handling customer inquiries and communication
- Using feedback to improve your business
Chapter 20: Mastering Customer Service
- Providing exceptional customer service
- Tools and techniques for managing customer interactions
- Turning customer feedback into actionable insights
Chapter 21: Staying Competitive in the Market
- Strategies for staying ahead of the competition
- Monitoring industry trends and changes
- Differentiating your business from others
Chapter 22: Networking and Building Partnerships
- Connecting with other entrepreneurs and influencers
- Collaborating with complementary businesses
- Leveraging partnerships for growth
Chapter 23: Avoiding Common Mistakes
- Pitfalls to avoid in dropshipping
- Learning from failure and setbacks
- Tips for long-term sustainability
Chapter 24: Final Thoughts and Next Steps
- Recap of key learnings from the guide
- Actionable steps for launching your dropshipping business
- Resources for further learning and support
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Why do we need Sugar?
The Silent Culprit Slowly Harming Our Health
Sugar, once a rare treat, has become a staple in modern diets, lurking in everything from sodas to seemingly healthy granola bars. While its sweet taste is irresistible, its long-term effects on our health are concerning.
Excessive sugar consumption can lead to a host of health issues over time. Firstly, it contributes to weight gain and obesity, increasing the risk of diabetes and heart disease. The high glycemic index of sugary foods causes rapid spikes in blood sugar levels, followed by crashes that leave us fatigued and craving more sugar.
Moreover, sugar is addictive. Like drugs, it triggers the release of dopamine in the brain, creating a cycle of cravings and consumption that can be difficult to break. This addiction, coupled with its pervasive presence in processed foods, makes reducing sugar intake a challenging but crucial task.
Furthermore, sugar is linked to inflammation, which is a root cause of many chronic diseases such as arthritis, Alzheimer’s, and even cancer. It also accelerates skin aging by damaging collagen and elastin fibers, leading to wrinkles and sagging.
To mitigate these risks, it’s essential to be mindful of sugar content in foods and beverages, opting for whole, unprocessed foods whenever possible. Reading labels and choosing alternatives like fruits, nuts, and natural sweeteners can help gradually reduce sugar intake.
In conclusion, while sugar may seem harmless in the short term, its effects accumulate over time, silently impacting our health and well-being. By making informed choices and moderating our consumption, we can protect ourselves from its slow but significant harm.
Read on… “Sugar Defender”
What can we do to Defend ourselves?
Defending ourselves against the harmful effects of sugar begins with awareness and proactive steps towards a healthier lifestyle:
- Read Labels: Become adept at reading food labels to identify hidden sugars in products. Look for terms like sucrose, high fructose corn syrup, and other syrups or words ending in “-ose.”
- Limit Processed Foods: Minimize consumption of processed and packaged foods, as they often contain high amounts of added sugars. Opt for whole, natural foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
- Choose Natural Sweeteners: Use natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or stevia in moderation instead of refined sugars. These alternatives have lower glycemic indexes and provide additional nutrients.
- Practice Moderation: Enjoy sugary treats occasionally rather than daily. This helps break the cycle of sugar addiction and reduces overall intake.
- Increase Fiber Intake: Fiber helps slow down the absorption of sugar in the bloodstream. Choose fiber-rich foods such as whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Sometimes thirst can be mistaken for hunger, leading to unnecessary sugar cravings.
- Regular Exercise: Physical activity helps regulate blood sugar levels and improves insulin sensitivity, reducing the risk of insulin resistance and diabetes associated with high sugar intake.
- Manage Stress: Stress can trigger cravings for sugary foods. Practice stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing to alleviate stress without turning to sugar.
- Get Enough Sleep: Poor sleep can disrupt hunger hormones and increase cravings for sugary foods. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to support overall health and well-being.
- Seek Professional Guidance: If struggling with sugar addiction or related health issues, consult a registered dietitian or healthcare professional for personalized advice and support.
By adopting these strategies and making gradual changes to reduce sugar intake, we can defend ourselves against the long-term health risks associated with excessive sugar consumption.
Read on… “Sugar Defender”
Chicken Cacciatore
Chicken Cacciatore
This recipe is for an oven-baked chicken cacciatore served over pasta, suitable for 4-6 servings. It starts with 1.5 to 2 pounds of bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks seasoned with salt and pepper. The chicken is browned in olive oil in a large Dutch oven, then set aside. In the same pot, onions are sweated, followed by the addition of garlic, mushrooms, bell peppers, and carrots, cooked for five minutes. The dish is flavored with a mix of tomatoes, red wine or broth, chicken broth, garlic-stuffed olives, capers, balsamic vinegar, Italian seasoning, and thyme. The browned chicken is nestled back into this mixture, brought to a low boil, covered, and then baked in a preheated oven at 350°F for one hour. It is then uncovered and cooked for an additional half-hour. The final dish is served over hot, cooked pasta, garnished with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese.
See Another Recipe
Chicken Cacciatore
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ to 2 lbs bone in thighs or drumsticks
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil, for sauteing
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, chopped
- ½ lb crimini mushrooms, sliced
- 2 red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and grated
- 1 (28 oz) can tomatoes, including juices
- 1 cup dry red wine (or broth)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup garlic stuffed olives, rough chopped
- 1 Tbsp capers, chopped
- 1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp dry thyme
- Hot, cooked pasta
- Fresh parsley, for serving
- Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Generously season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- In a large oven safe dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium high heat. Brown chicken for four minutes each side. Set aside.
- In the same pot, add onion. Sweat for three minutes, or until softened. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute, or until fragrant. Add mushrooms, bell peppers, and carrots. Cook for another five minutes.
- Add tomatoes, red wine, olives, capers, balsamic vinegar, Italian seasoning, and thyme. Stir, and nestle in browned chicken pieces. Bring to a low boil and cover. Place in the preheated oven and cook for one hour. Uncover and cook for an additional half hour.
- Serve over cooked pasta with fresh parsley and parmesan cheese.
Serves 4-6
Braised Tender Chicken with Potatoes
Chinese-Style New & Improved Recipe!
Braised chicken with potatoes is quintessential Chinese comfort food. Hearty, wholesome and delicious, it is easy to cook up and easily becomes a family favourite. Enjoy juicy, tender chicken and butter-soft potatoes soaked in a thick, tasty umami gravy over steamed rice.
I was poring through my older posts and this tender braised chicken with potatoes is a hot favourite, even today. But I have to admit, guys, I almost cringed at the photos I took back then!
There were so many things wrong with the photos, I didn’t know where to start! Tone, composition, lighting, staging, basically the whole nine yards just ughhh! Goodness, I really didn’t do this dish any justice!
Finally, I’m putting things right. This circuit breaker we’re into might just have given me the opportunity and time to rejuvenate some of my oldest recipes.
Yup, finally throwing a little bit of love and attention wherever I can. So, let’s take a new look, and I mean this literally, at this amazing dish of Chinese-style braised chicken with potatoes!
Chinese-Style Tender Braised Chicken with Potatoes
Let me just say this. I am such a fan of gravy and sauces that I often look to Cantonese food for a lot of inspiration in my cooking.
All is well because my hubby and I both happen to love Cantonese cuisine. So in that way, our palettes are congruent which makes my task of preparing our family meals so much easier.
About Cantonese braised chicken
Now, you probably have some impression of how famous the Cantonese are for their food. Travel to Hong Kong, and nearby Guangzhou, and you’ll be totally wowed by the amazing and tantalising smorgasboard of Canton cuisine.
Not only for preparing elegant and exquisite dishes fit for banquets and feasts, but also for a great variety of simple, hearty home-cooked meals. And this braised chicken with potatoes is one such homey dish.
Every Chinese family has their cherished recipes for braised chicken. In fact, you won’t usually find this on a typical Chinese restaurant menu. That’s why we treasure the instances, and memories of when our mothers cooked this for us with love and dedication.
Now, this chicken with potatoes dish has delicate but distinct flavours. How it tastes is ultimately defined by the combination of seasonings used.
However, it’s easy to go overboard with seasonings, especially the sauces and that’s not ideal. Otherwise, the whole dish will lose the little nuances of flavour and will taste overwhelmingly of the sauce.
Ingredients for the dish
What’s needed?
- chicken
- potatoes
- ginger
- garlic
- spring onions
- Asian sauces – oyster sauce, light soy sauce and dark soy sauce
- Chinese wine
- sesame oil
Tips on chicken cuts and potato variety
- Choose the mix of chicken cuts you like. My favourite options for braising are either a whole chicken cut up, or tastier cuts like chicken thighs, drumsticks, and of course, chicken wings. Who doesn’t love wings, right?
- Skin-on is more tasty than skin off. If you want more flavour, skin-on chicken parts are better as the oils will infuse with the braising sauce.
- Granola potatoes are, in my humble opinion, the best variety to use for braising. But, basically any waxy white or yellow potatoes that hold their shape well when boiled. Other suitable options are Yukon Gold and Fingerling potatoes.
These are just my suggestions, of course and nothing should stop you from enjoying this dish with the chicken cuts and potatoes you love to eat. So, if you’re all for skinless breast meat and potatoes mashed and literally dissolved in your gravy, then enjoy!
Step-by-step cooking: braised chicken with potatoes
Before we even fire up the stove, go ahead and marinate the chicken with the seasonings. The meat has to sit for at least an hour. Preferably, if you’re planning to cook ahead, an overnight marinate in the chiller would be even better.
- Step 1: Deep-fry potatoes until lightly browned. Heat up 1/2 cup of oil in a wok or skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is very hot, deep fry the potato chunks until they turn light brown. Turn over the potatoes as needed to brown all sides evenly. When done, remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Step 2: Fry the aromatics and chicken. Scoop out the oil, leaving behind 3 tbsp. When the oil is hot again, fry the aromatics (ginger and spring onions) over high heat until fragrant.
- Step 3: Add the whole garlic cloves, and toss for 30 seconds.
- Steps 4 & 5: Put in the seasoned chicken. Sear over high heat till lightly browned.
- Step 6: Add water and let braise. There should be enough water to just cover the chicken. Let the mixture come to a boil, then reduce the heat until a gentle simmer. Let braise, uncovered, for 30 minutes.
- Step 7: Put in fried potatoes. Halfway through the braising, stir in the fried potato chunks. If the water has reduced too quickly, add more water as needed to braise the potatoes. Stir occasionally, but be careful not to break up the potatoes.
- Step 8: Braise until meat is tender and reduce to thicken gravy. Once the meat is tender to your liking, taste the gravy and season to your tastes. If you love your gravy thick, simmer to further reduce but bear in mind, the flavours will intensify. So if it was just salty enough, it will taste saltier if you reduce further. Alternatively, you can also thicken the gravy by thickening with corn starch solution.
Braised Chicken with Potatoes
prep time: 15 MINUTES
cook time: 35 MINUTES
resting time: 1 HOUR
total time: 1 HOUR 50 MINUTES
yield: 12 SERVINGS
This is a quintessential Chinese comfort dish of braised chicken with potatoes. Juicy, tender chicken with butter-soft potatoes basking in a thick savoury gravy flavoured with the juices of chicken, oyster sauce, soy sauce, Chinese wine and sesame oil.
Ingredients
½1x2x
- ▢ 800 gm chicken thighs and wings
- ▢ 4 potatoes
- ▢ 1 thumb-length ginger knob
- ▢ 2 stalks spring onions
- ▢ 6 whole garlic cloves skin on
- ▢ Corn starch solution for thickening optional
Seasonings
- ▢ 1 tsp salt
- ▢ 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- ▢ 2 tsp light soy sauce
- ▢ 2 tsp thick dark soy sauce
- ▢ 1 tbsp Chinese wine
- ▢ 1 tbsp sesame oil
- ▢ 1 tsp sugar or more as needed
- ▢ Salt and ground pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and pat dry chicken parts. In a mixing bowl, combine chicken and seasonings. Coat evenly all over and set aside, covered with cling wrap, for 1 hour.
- Peel potatoes and slice into quarters. Peel and slice ginger thinly. Cut spring onions into thumb-length sections.
- Heat up a wok or skillet over high heat. Add ½ cup of oil. When very hot, fry potato chunks. While frying, turn potatoes as needed to lightly brown all sides. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Remove the oil, leaving behind 3 tbsp.
- When oil is hot again, fry ginger and spring onions until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add garlic cloves and fry for 15 seconds. Put in seasoned chicken and stir fry to brown the meat all over, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add enough water to cover the chicken. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat until a gentle simmer. Let braise, uncovered, for 30 minutes.
- Halfway through the braising, add fried potatoes. Stir in gently, and add more water if needed. Stir occasionally to braise the potatoes evenly, be careful not to break them up.
- Once chicken is tender and potatoes are soft, taste the gravy and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer a bit longer to reduce if you want a thicker gravy and more intense flavour. Alternatively, if you want more gravy, thicken with corn starch solution to your desired consistency.
- When done, dish out into serving dish. Garnish with sliced spring onions and serve.
Braised Pork Belly in Soy Sauce
Braised Pork Belly in Soy Sauce (Tau Yew Bak) is a homey dish with pork belly simmered in an intensely flavorful soy sauce broth. This braised pork belly recipe offers a complex, sophisticated taste that’s truly addictive.
Tau Yew Bak (Braised Pork)
Tau yew bak—sometimes spelled as tau yu bak—means “soy sauce pork” in the Hokkien dialect. It’s a cherished recipe in my family, passed down from my late mother. This slow-cooked braised pork belly features soft, fatty pork belly steeped in soy sauce, along with extras like firm tofu (tau kua), hard-boiled eggs, and sometimes potatoes and mushrooms.
It’s a comforting dish that brings back memories of shared meals and moments with my family, especially nostalgia for my childhood times with my parents and siblings.
Just the mere mention of tau yew bak sets my stomach rumbling and my mouth watering. I can already imagine the tender braised pork melting in my mouth, perfectly complemented by the savory and utterly appetizing soy sauce gravy. Served with steamed rice and accompanied by sambal belacan as a condiment, it’s an experience that’s truly lip-smackingly good.
The Best Braised Pork Belly Recipe
This is my late mother’s braised pork belly in soy sauce, passed down to me when my parents visited us in 2000. Her tau yew bak was legendary; the pork belly is slowly braised and stewed over low heat in intensely flavorful soy sauce, rendering it soft, tender and juicy. The overall taste is complex, sophisticated, addictive, and utterly delectable.
I added some cracked whole white peppercorns, the secret ingredient that elevates the deliciousness of the recipe.
This is definitely one of the best pork belly recipes I have ever tasted. You should also try these recipes for belly of pork: crispy Chinese roast pork, BBQ Char Siu, and Dongpo Rou stew.
I hope you get to experience the many great tastes of my childhood, where pork is the main meat of choice.
Ingredients
- Pork belly – Choose pork belly with a good amount of fat. The fat should be evenly distributed throughout the meat, as this will contribute to tenderness and flavor during cooking.
- Fried tofu – This is firm tofu, cut and deep-fried. You can make these fried tofu pieces from scratch, or you can buy them already deep-fried and packaged.
- Soy sauce, dark soy sauce and sweet soy sauce – These three ingredients form the basic building blocks of the soy sauce mixture that braises the pork.
- White peppercorn – this is the secret ingredient that adds a peppery note and a tint of heat to the recipe. Additionally, it helps to eliminate any potential “porky” stench from the pork belly, ensuring a more pleasant aroma and flavor in the final dish.
How To Make This Recipe
Step 1: Heat up a pot or preferably a big clay pot with 4 cups of water. Bring it to boil and then add in the garlic, pork belly, and cracked peppercorns.
Step 2: Bring the pork belly to boil before adding the hard-boiled eggs, fried tofu, soy sauce, sweet soy sauce and dark soy sauce.
Step 3: Lower the heat to medium and braise the pork for 30 minutes or so until the pork belly is is cooked through and become tender. Add salt to taste. Continue to simmer on the lowest heat for another 15-20 minutes. Dish out and serve hot with steamed white rice.
What To Serve With This Recipe
Braised pork belly is often served with steamed rice to soak up the flavorful soy sauce braising liquid. It can also be served with stir-fried vegetables for a balanced meal. Additionally, Taiwanese people love to serve braised pork belly in guabao, or Taiwanese pork belly bun. You may also serve it with steamed buns mantou.
Ginger Soy Bok Choy
Garlic Green Beans
Steamed Buns
Chinese Fried Rice
I hope you enjoy this post as much as I do. If you try my recipe, please share your photo in the Comments section and consider giving it a 5-star rating. I can’t wait to see your creations! Want more easy and delicious recipes?
Braised Pork Belly in Soy Sauce Recipe
Braised Pork Belly in Soy Sauce (Tau Yew Bak) is a homey dish with pork belly simmered in an intensely flavorful soy sauce broth. This braised pork belly recipe offers a complex, sophisticated taste that’s truly addictive.
BY BEE YINN LOW
YIELD 4 people
PREP 10 minutes
COOK 50 minutes
TOTAL 1hour
Ingredients
1X2X3X
- ▢ 4 cups water
- ▢ 1 head garlic, lightly pounded with the back of a cleaver
- ▢ 1 lb (500g) pork belly, cut into small pieces
- ▢ 1 tablespoon white peppercorn, smashed and cracked
- ▢ 5 hard-boiled eggs
- ▢ 8 oz (230g) fried firm tofu (bean curd)
- ▢ 4 tablespoons soy sauce
- ▢ 3 tablespoons sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
- ▢ 1-2 tablespoons dark soy sauce (add more for your desired color)
- ▢ Salt to taste
Instructions
- Heat up a pot, preferably a big clay pot, with 4 cups of water. Bring it to a boil, then add in the garlic, pork belly, and cracked peppercorns.
- Bring the pork belly to boil before adding the hard-boiled eggs, fried tofu, soy sauce, sweet soy sauce and dark soy sauce.
- Lower the heat to medium and braise the pork for 30 minutes or so until the pork belly is is cooked through and become tender. Add salt to taste. Continue to simmer on the lowest heat for another 15-20 minutes. Dish out and serve hot with steamed white rice.
Notes
- Choose pork belly with a good amount of fat. The fat should be evenly distributed throughout the meat, as this will contribute to tenderness and flavor during cooking.
- Soy sauce, dark soy sauce and sweet soy sauce are three ingredients that form the basic building blocks of the soy sauce mixture that braises the pork.
- White peppercorn is the secret ingredient that adds a peppery note and a tint of heat to the recipe. Additionally, it helps to eliminate any potential “porky” stench from the pork belly, ensuring a more pleasant aroma and flavor in the final dish.
COURSE: Pork
CUISINE: Chinese Recipes
KEYWORDS: Braised Pork Belly, Braised Pork Belly in Soy Sauce
Nutrition
Serving: 4people, Calories: 611kcal (31%), Carbohydrates: 18g (6%), Protein: 26g (52%), Fat: 69g (106%), Saturated Fat: 24g (150%), Cholesterol: 314mg (105%), Sodium: 1628mg (71%), Fiber: 1g (4%)