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... Read moreWinning the title of Mrs Singapore 2026 Culinary Queen was a tremendous honor that I cherish deeply. What made my winning dish truly special was the inspiration drawn from my Japanese son-in-law’s palate and my own cultural roots. Using Kwong Cheong Thye’s heritage dark soy, light soy, and oyster sauces, I developed a marinade that imparted a complex yet balanced umami flavor to the caramelised yakiniku beef. The technique of glazing the beef with these traditional sauces added depth, while the addition of crispy chili and pickled daikon provided the perfect contrast in textures and a subtle kick to enliven the dish. Serving this over Japanese rice and topping it with a delicate onsen egg and seared foie gras created layers of richness and harmony that truly reflected the spirit of fusion cuisine. I want to highlight how heritage ingredients like those from Kwong Cheong Thye bring authentic flavors that transform simple components into a refined culinary experience. This dish is not just food but a story of family, culture, and creativity coming together on a plate. For anyone interested in Japanese-style home cooking, I highly recommend experimenting with traditional soy and oyster sauces to create marinades or dipping sauces that provide extraordinary umami depth. Adding elements like onsen egg or foie gras elevates the dish from everyday to extraordinary, perfect for special occasions. Ultimately, cooking is about passion and connection, and winning this title inspired me to explore more recipes that blend heritage flavors with modern techniques, keeping my loved ones — especially those missing home — comforted and delighted through food.