Over a century old, Yuan Heng Spice shop has been in operations through multi-generations since 1912. I love that they have kept up with the times – they are on the internet and continue to do wholesale as well as sell to individual customers.
You can buy as much as you need/want and charged by the weight. At Yuan Heng, they speak English and are super helpful, so you can ask for what you need, show them photos of the spices you’re looking for and they will have that vacuum packed for you. They also sell ready made spice blends for certain dishes – we get our 5 spice powder here, the cumin and corriander mix is also a great one if you’re making Middle Eastern dishes. I get my garam masala here, but the best one is the special mix from our friend The Bombay East Indian Girl.
Chef loves coming here to sniff around and buy spices – inspired by the sheer variety and learning about new spices. I come here to buy what I need for the household and even tried their natural mosquito repellent that really is a blend of spices which made the house smell like mala hotpot. I am not sure if it was effective at repelling mosquitoes as I still got bitten. The variety of chillies and Sichuan peppercorns here are wild and extensive, you’ll definitely find what you need for a spicy hotpot!
Some spices are in Malay like “Kembang Rumbut” which means grass flower
You won’t miss Yuan Heng Spice Company if you’re walking along the antiques back alley on Cat’s Street.
The century-old Yuan Heng Spice Company is a treasure trove for anyone passionate about cooking. With an extensive range of spices that cater to every palate, both professional chefs and home cooks come here to get their spice mixes. Whether you’re looking to elevate your dishes with unique flavours or simply explore the world of spices, Yuan Heng offers an inviting experience that celebrates the art of cooking and the joy it brings. So, next time you’re in search of that perfect seasoning, remember to stop by and discover the aromatic wonders waiting for you. Happy cooking!
