Taiwan is renowned for its vibrant street food culture, delectable cuisine, and culinary diversity. When you visit Taiwan, be prepared to embark on a gastronomic adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. Taiwan’s food culture is a delightful blend of influences from various regions, including China, Japan, and indigenous Taiwanese traditions. This unique fusion has given rise to a diverse and exciting array of flavors, ingredients, and cooking techniques.
Taiwan Night Market Food
One of the best ways to experience the food in Taiwan is by visiting its bustling night markets. These vibrant hubs of culinary activity are scattered throughout the island, offering a vast selection of delectable street food. You’ll find everything from savory to sweet, and every bite is a culinary adventure. Some of the must-eat foods you’ll encounter at these markets include:
- Stinky Tofu: As the name suggests, this fermented tofu dish has a strong odor, but don’t let that deter you. Stinky tofu is a beloved Taiwanese snack with a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful inside.
- Oyster Omelette: A delightful combination of fresh oysters and a starchy omelet, this dish is usually drenched in a savory, sweet sauce.
- Taiwanese Deep-fried Chicken Chops and Popcorn Chicken: A street food classic, known for its crispy exterior and juicy, tender meat, seasoned with a blend of spices.
- Bubble Tea (Boba): Originating in Taiwan, bubble tea has taken the world by storm. This sweet, tea-based beverage features chewy tapioca pearls, and you can customize it with different flavors and toppings.
Taiwan Cuisine
Beyond the night markets, Taiwanese cuisine offers a wide range of delectable dishes that reflect the country’s culinary traditions and innovation. Here are some must-try foods you should not miss:
- Beef Noodle Soup: Beef noodle soup holds a revered place in the heart of Taiwan’s culinary scene, serving as a comforting and iconic dish that represents the rich tapestry of flavors and cultural heritage in the country’s gastronomy.
- Lu Rou Fan (Braised Pork Rice): This is a quintessential Taiwanese comfort food. It features a tender, succulent pork belly braised in a flavorful sauce served over a bed of steamed rice.
- Gua Bao: These steamed buns, often referred to as “Taiwanese hamburgers,” are stuffed with slices of braised pork, pickled vegetables, and ground peanuts.
- Minced Pork Noodles: A hearty and flavorful bowl of noodles topped with minced pork and often accompanied by a rich, savory broth.
- Dan Zai Noodles: A Tainan specialty, these noodles are served with a savory minced meat sauce, garlic, and soy sauce, creating an explosion of flavors in your mouth.
- XiaoLongBao: These small buns of minced meat are packed with a punch of soupy goodness. Goes well with soy sauce, vinegar and some ginger.
Read our articles below about some of the must-try foods to get a true taste of Taiwan’s culinary treasures, and prepare to fall in love with the island’s gastronomic delights.
