Okinawa Prefecture may not be the largest district in Japan, measuring slightly under 2,300 sqkm which is just three times the size of Singapore. But its location in the humid subtropical climate allows the island to produce some popular raw food. Of these, brown sugar, sea salt and sweet potato have gained much reputation in Japan and regionally, and you will have seen various sweet treats done using these prized exports from Okinawa in Singapore too.

During our visit to Okinawa back in 2019, the bustling shopping streets in Naha are dotted with shops selling Okinawa Brown Sugar gelato, Okinawa Sea Salt and Okinawa Sweet Potato tarts. Of course, you will find many other products ranging from fresh bakes to even drinks prepared using these local ingredients.

These Okinawan produces have great health benefits too. The Brown Sugar is a healthier alternative to white sugar and is apparently good in preventing tooth decay, improving resistance to stress and lowering blood cholesterol levels. Okinawan’s sea salt is amongst one of the most nutritious salts, possessing high levels of mineral content such as potassium and calcium yet low in sodium content. Whereas the Sweet Potatoes are packed with anti-oxidant and anti-aging nutrients that also help to better support digestion. Have any of these with your favourite desserts, and stay healthy while you enjoy your sweet treats!

The Okinawa Prefectural Government is currently working with various cafes across Singapore to bring you some delightful/uniquely created desserts now, make sure you check them out soon!

Apiary

This popular ice cream shop which opened its first shop along Neil Road and now has 2 other branches in Joo Chiat and Ang Mo Kio. In January, Apiary is offering 2 new gelato flavours including the Brown Sugar with Butter Cookie Ice Cream and the Sea Salt Lemon Sorbet. Find out more here.

Creamier Handcrafted Ice Cream and Coffee

Amongst the pioneer ice cream shops in Singapore offering high quality gelato, what began as a tiny shop in Toa Payoh now has 4 outlets islandwide. Head here for the Okinawa Sea Salt Brown Sugar Ice Cream and the Salty Lychee Sorbet. You can even get a pint of the flavours home if you fancy them! Find out more here.

Hvala Café

The chain cafe will remind you of the teahouses in Japan, with Hvala specializing in various Japanese-inspired drinks and desserts. Its locations are all in the town area, making it accessible to many. Offering 2 desserts till end Mar’22, you can choose between Okinawa Sweet Potato Tart or the Okinawa Sweet Potato Gelato. Or you can have both! Find out more here.

Read more on Okinawa Prefectural Government ongoing partnership with various restaurants and bars in Singapore on the prefecture’s popular Awamori liquor here.

Ranted by The Rantee