This lifehack teaches you how to order 'cai fan' like a pro
PUBLISHED ONJune 26, 2019 8:38 AMByMelissa Goh
'Cai Fan', also known as 'Economic Rice', is the most common meal to have when you're saving money or when you want different varieties of ingredients on one plate.
Ordering cai fan has become an art to master to ensure you get the most out of your money, and this Facebook post on 'How to order cai fan like a pro' posted by Lobang Siah is getting a reaction from the internet.
The witty cai fan hack was first shared in 2012 on SaveSmartly, a money-saving blog. But isn't it great to have a refresher every once in a while?
If you've not seen the post before or have long forgotten about it, here are some of the ways to try the next time you're having cai fan.
The hack suggests ordering expensive items first to give the stall owners an impression that you're 'High SES' and not a cheapskate. In turn, you'll be offered a bigger portion -- maybe try ordering seafood to score a better impression?
Other tips include pointing at the dishes as many times as possible and not rushing your order to get a bigger portion.
One point that made sense is asking for 'more rice' instead of 'add rice' so you don't have to pay for an extra portion.
Most stalls that I order cai fan from are generally okay to give a bigger portion of rice without having to pay. If this method works, next time try asking auntie or uncle for 'more ingredients' and see if they'll give more.
In the comments section, Facebook users have chimed in with their own cai fan hacks and they sound legit.
Order uncountable dishes first such as leafy vegetables, and countable ones last so they subconsciously give you more or put gravy on the rice first so it's adequately drenched.
PHOTO: Facebook screengrab
Going just before the stall is about to close is another way of scoring a bigger portion.
I've ordered dishes that are about to run out, and the stall owners tend to give you everything that's remaining so that they can clear it away for the newly-cooked dishes.
PHOTO: Facebook screengrab
Again, this cai fan hack is meant to be taken with a pinch of salt. I've encountered many stalls that run strictly on fixed portions and do not entertain my requests at times.
PHOTO: Facebook screengrab
Now that you're in the know of this hack, it's time to try these tips on cai fan stalls and let us know if it works.
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