The Kacang Puteh man is an iconic figure in Singapore's street food culture. "Kacang Puteh" translates to "white nuts" in Malay, and it refers to a traditional assortment of roasted and seasoned nuts and seeds, often served in paper cones by street vendors. The Kacang Puteh man is a street hawker who carries a mobile cart or stall, showcasing an array of these savory snacks.

The history of Kacang Puteh in Singapore dates back to the early 20th century when it was introduced by Indian and Malay immigrants. Over the years, it has become an integral part of Singapore's culinary heritage and a symbol of the island nation's diverse cultural influences.

The Kacang Puteh man is recognizable by his traditional attire, often wearing a white shirt and pants, paired with a colorful sarong wrapped around his waist. He usually carries a large basket or cart filled with various nuts and seeds, such as chickpeas, peanuts, green peas, cashews, and roasted corn kernels.

The preparation of Kacang Puteh is an art in itself. The nuts and seeds are carefully roasted to perfection, giving them a crunchy texture and enhancing their flavors. The Kacang Puteh man then skillfully mixes the roasted nuts and seeds with a variety of spices and seasonings, which can include chili powder, salt, sugar, and sometimes even a hint of tanginess from tamarind or lime.

When customers approach the Kacang Puteh man's stall, they can request their preferred mix of nuts and seeds, or simply go for the classic combination that the vendor has perfected over the years. The Kacang Puteh man serves the snack in a traditional paper cone, which customers can hold while strolling through the bustling streets of Singapore.

In addition to being a tasty and convenient snack, Kacang Puteh also holds sentimental value for many Singaporeans, evoking nostalgic memories of their childhood. The sound of the nuts and seeds being scooped into the paper cones and the aroma of the freshly roasted snacks can instantly transport people back in time.

However, as Singapore modernizes and street food culture evolves, the number of Kacang Puteh vendors has dwindled. Many traditional street hawkers face challenges in the form of changing regulations, competition from commercialized snacks, and the younger generation's changing preferences.

Efforts are being made to preserve and celebrate this traditional culinary heritage. Some vendors are now collaborating with social enterprises and heritage organizations to ensure the continuation of this beloved cultural icon. Additionally, various cultural events and festivals in Singapore often feature Kacang Puteh stalls, allowing locals and tourists to savor this cherished snack.

The Kacang Puteh man and his mobile stall represent not only a culinary experience but also a nostalgic connection to Singapore's rich cultural heritage. As they continue to traverse the streets, they keep alive the tradition of Kacang Puteh, reminding Singaporeans of their roots and the flavors that have shaped their nation's unique identity.