Roti john
Roti john is a popular sandwich dish originating from Singapore, and also widely found in Malaysia and Indonesia. It consists of a baguette-like loaf of bread sliced in half, coated with a mixture of minced meat (typically mutton, beef, or chicken), onions, eggs, and various spices, then pan-fried until golden brown.
The name "roti john" is believed to have originated in the 1960s or 1970s, with "roti" meaning bread in Malay, and "john" referring to a Western or British person. The exact origin story varies, but a common narrative involves a Westerner asking a Malay hawker for a sandwich, and the hawker improvising with available ingredients.
Various condiments are typically served with roti john, including chili sauce, tomato sauce, mayonnaise, and sometimes cheese. Regional variations exist, with different fillings and sauces used depending on local preferences. Roti john is commonly sold at hawker centers, food stalls, and night markets in Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Its affordability and savory flavor have made it a beloved street food staple.