Welcome to a culinary adventure in Taiwan! The country boasts a diverse range of cuisines influenced by traditional Chinese, Japanese and indigenous cultures. Taiwanese cuisine is unique, and you can discover a blend of flavors, aromas and textures that you are unlikely to find anywhere else in the world. In this article, we will take you through twenty must-try foods in Taiwan, ranging from traditional delights to street food snacks, seafood specialties, vegetarian dishes, desserts, exotic fruits, and fusion cuisines. Get ready to whet your appetite as we explore the tastes, scents and sights of Taiwanese food.
Exploring Traditional Taiwanese Delights
Taiwanese cuisine is a unique blend of Chinese, Japanese, and indigenous flavours, making it a must-try for any foodie! To experience the essence of Taiwanese culture through its cuisine, start by exploring the traditional and iconic dishes that are essential to try.
Iconic Taiwanese Dishes
| Dish | Ingredients | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Beef Noodle Soup | Beef, noodles, bok choy, pickled mustard greens | A hearty soup that consists of slow-cooked beef, robust broth, and chewy noodles. It is a staple comfort food for locals and tourists alike. |
| Oyster Vermicelli | Oysters, vermicelli noodles, garlic, vinegar | A flavourful soup made with vermicelli noodles, oysters, pork, and a tangy broth made with garlic and vinegar. A must-try for seafood lovers! |
Traditional Taiwanese Foods
In addition to iconic dishes, there are also several traditional foods that are essential to try while in Taiwan. Here are some of the most popular ones:
- Taiwanese-style Fried Chicken: This crispy and juicy chicken is marinated with a special blend of spices and then deep-fried to perfection.
- Taiwanese Meatballs: Made with a mixture of pork, bamboo shoots, and shiitake mushrooms, these meatballs have a unique flavour and texture that is truly addictive.
Make sure to add these traditional and iconic Taiwanese dishes to your foodie bucket list!
Savory Treats: Noodles, Dumplings, and Buns
When it comes to savory dishes, Taiwan has a range of options that are sure to satisfy any palate. From hearty beef noodle soup to delicate xiao long bao (soup dumplings), there is no shortage of delicious options to try.
Taiwanese Noodles
Beef noodle soup is a must-try dish when in Taiwan. This savory soup is made with a rich broth that has been simmered for hours with beef bones, soy sauce, and spices. The tender beef and chewy noodles are the perfect comfort food on a chilly day.
Another popular noodle dish is dan zai noodles, which originated in Tainan. Dan zai noodles are made with thin noodles, minced pork, shrimp, and a sauce made with soy sauce, garlic, and chili oil. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for lunch.
Dumplings in Taiwan
Xiao long bao, also known as soup dumplings, are a staple in Taiwanese cuisine. These delicate dumplings are filled with pork and broth and are typically served with a side of vinegar and ginger. The key to enjoying xiao long bao is to carefully bite into the dumpling to release the broth before savoring the pork filling.
Shui jiao, or boiled dumplings, are another popular dish. These plump dumplings are typically filled with pork and vegetables and are served with a dipping sauce made with soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic.
Taiwanese Buns
Gua bao, also known as pork belly buns, are a Taiwanese street-food favorite. The fluffy white buns are filled with slices of tender pork belly, pickled vegetables, and a sprinkle of crushed peanuts.
Baozi, or steamed buns, are another popular option. These pillowy buns can be filled with a variety of savory fillings, such as pork or vegetables. They make for a great breakfast or snack.
Street Food Delights: Fried Snacks and Stuffed Pancakes
Taiwan’s street food scene is renowned throughout the world, and for good reason – the sheer variety of options available is staggering. From savoury bites to sweet treats, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Some of the most popular street food items in Taiwan are deep-fried snacks and stuffed pancakes, which come in all shapes and sizes. Here are some of the must-try options:
| Food Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Scallion Pancakes | A savoury pancake made from a dough of flour, water, and chopped scallions, which is then pan-fried until crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Often served with soy sauce for dipping. |
| Oyster Omelet | A dish consisting of a fluffy omelet filled with oysters, vegetables, and sometimes small shrimp or other seafood. The omelet is cooked until lightly browned on the outside and served with a sweet and spicy sauce. |
| Stinky Tofu | A pungent fermented tofu that has a strong odour but a delicious flavour. Often deep-fried and served with pickled vegetables and/or a spicy dipping sauce. |
| Deep-Fried Squid | A popular snack that consists of squid rings covered in a crispy batter and deep-fried until golden brown. Served with a variety of sauces, including wasabi mayo and sweet chilli sauce. |
| Jianbing | A Chinese-style crepe that’s filled with a variety of ingredients, such as eggs, scallions, and meat or vegetables. The crepe is then rolled up and served hot. |
These are just a few of the many street food options that Taiwan has to offer. Whether you’re a fan of savoury or sweet, there’s sure to be something that will tickle your taste buds. So be sure to hit up the night markets and street food stalls during your visit and try as many different snacks as you can!
Seafood Specialties: Fresh Catches from Taiwanese Waters
Taiwan is surrounded by the ocean, making seafood a vital part of its cuisine. The country’s fishing industry is thriving, and the abundance of fresh catches is reflected in its delicious seafood dishes.
One of Taiwan’s most iconic seafood dishes is steamed fish. The fish is first marinated in ginger and soy sauce before being steamed to perfection. The result is a delicate and flavourful dish that is best enjoyed with a bowl of rice.
Another popular seafood dish is shrimp rolls. Made with fresh shrimp and wrapped in a thin layer of pastry, these rolls are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. They are often served with a sweet and sour dipping sauce.
In addition to these dishes, there are also numerous seafood hotpot options available, including a spicy Sichuan-style hotpot and a Taiwanese-style hotpot with a savoury broth made from pork bones and seafood.
For those who prefer their seafood fried, Taiwan has plenty of options. Deep-fried squid is a popular snack food, especially at night markets. Oyster omelets are another street food staple, made with eggs, oysters, and a sweet and savoury sauce.
Overall, Taiwan’s seafood scene is not to be missed, with a variety of dishes that highlight the freshness and quality of the country’s catches.
Vegetarian Delights: Tofu, Mushrooms, and Bamboo Shoots
Taiwan is a vegetarian-friendly destination, offering an array of delicious meat-free options. Vegetarianism has been a major part of Taiwanese culture for centuries, and the cuisine reflects this tradition. Taiwan’s vegetarian dishes are far from bland, with a variety of flavorful tofu, mushrooms, and bamboo shoots.
Stinky tofu, a fermented tofu dish popular in Taiwan, may be off-putting to some, but it is a must-try for adventurous foodies. It’s often served deep-fried and paired with a spicy and sour dipping sauce. Another popular dish is the vegetarian hot pot, which includes an array of vegetables and tofu simmered in a fragrant broth.
Mushrooms are also an essential ingredient in Taiwanese vegetarian cuisine. The straw mushroom is a particular specialty in Taiwan, with its delicate texture and subtle flavour. It is commonly used in stir-fries and hot pots but can also be served grilled or fried as a snack.
Bamboo shoots are another versatile ingredient in Taiwanese vegetarian dishes. They are often stir-fried with garlic and ginger, or served in spring rolls. Additionally, they are often used in hot pots, adding a unique crunch and flavour to the dish.
Delicious Vegetarian Dishes to Try:
- Stinky Tofu
- Vegetarian Hot Pot
- Grilled Mushrooms
- Stir-Fried Bamboo Shoots
- Vegetarian Spring Rolls
“Taiwan is a vegetarian’s paradise. The variety and deliciousness of vegetarian food is simply amazing!” – Anthony Bourdain
Sweet Indulgences: Taiwanese Desserts and Pastries
If you have a sweet tooth, Taiwan’s dessert scene will not disappoint. From traditional Taiwanese sweets to modern fusion creations, there’s something for everyone.
Pineapple cakes: These bite-sized pastries are a must-try when in Taiwan. The buttery crust is filled with a sweet and tangy pineapple jam, making for the perfect snack or souvenir.
Shaved ice desserts: In the hot summer months, nothing beats a refreshing bowl of shaved ice. Popular toppings include fresh fruit, condensed milk, and tapioca pearls.
| Taro balls | Red bean cakes | Mochi |
|---|---|---|
| These chewy balls made from taro root are a popular addition to sweet soups and desserts. | This small cake is filled with sweet red bean paste and often served with a cup of tea. | This Japanese-inspired dessert consists of chewy rice cake filled with sweet cream or red bean paste. |
Taiwanese-style egg tarts: A twist on the classic Portuguese pastel de nata, these tarts have a flaky pastry crust and a silky smooth egg custard filling.
Taro milk tea: A variation of the classic bubble tea, taro milk tea has a creamy taro flavour and is often topped with tapioca pearls or fruity jelly.
Taiwanese-style doughnuts: These deep-fried snacks are popular street food items. The dough is made with sweet potato and seasoned with sesame seeds and sugar.
Whether you’re in the mood for something traditional or experimental, Taiwan’s dessert scene is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth and Quench Your Thirst with Exotic Fruits and Refreshing Drinks
Taiwan is known for its tropical climate and fertile soil, producing some of the most delicious fruits in the world. From juicy mangoes to sweet pineapples, visitors can try a variety of exotic fruits that are unique to Taiwan.
One popular way to enjoy these fruits is in the form of refreshing drinks, such as the famous bubble tea. Originally invented in Taiwan, bubble tea is a sweet and creamy drink made with milk and tea, with chewy tapioca balls (or “pearls”) at the bottom. It comes in a variety of flavours and toppings, making it a perfect way to cool down on a hot day.
Other popular drinks include fresh fruit juices and smoothies, often made with a combination of local fruits like passionfruit, papaya, and dragonfruit. Coconut water and sugar cane juice are also great thirst-quenchers.
The Exotic Fruits of Taiwan
Taiwan is home to a range of exotic fruits that are a must-try for visitors:
| Fruit | Description | Best Time to Try |
|---|---|---|
| Mango | Sweet and juicy, with a soft texture and strong aroma | May-August |
| Lychee | Small and fragrant, with a delicate, slightly tart flavour | May-July |
| Dragonfruit | Colourful and mildly sweet, with a crunchy texture and edible seeds | June-September |
| Papaya | Soft and buttery, with a slightly sweet flavour and orange flesh | Year-round |
| Pineapple | Sweet and tangy, with a firm texture and prickly exterior | Year-round |
These fruits can be found at local markets, supermarkets, and fruit stands all around Taiwan. Try them on their own, or in the form of juices, smoothies, or desserts.
Fusion Flavors: Taiwanese-International Crossover Cuisine
Taiwan’s culinary scene is not only about traditional and iconic dishes. The island is also home to a growing fusion food trend, which combines local ingredients with international flavours. The result is an exciting and diverse range of dishes that cater to all tastes.
What is Taiwanese-international crossover cuisine?
Taiwanese-international crossover cuisine refers to dishes that blend Taiwanese ingredients and cooking techniques with international flavours and cooking styles. This culinary trend emerged as a result of Taiwan’s cultural diversity and geographical location.
Taiwan has a long history of foreign influence, from the Dutch and Spanish colonizers to the Japanese occupation. It is also a bustling economic hub that attracts a large number of international residents and visitors. As a result, Taiwan’s cuisine has evolved to incorporate ingredients and dishes from different cultures, resulting in a unique culinary fusion.
What are some popular Taiwanese-international crossover dishes?
One of the most popular Taiwanese-international crossover dishes is beef noodle pizza. This dish combines the classic Italian pizza with Taiwanese-style braised beef, scallions, and a generous amount of hot chili oil. Another popular dish is oyster vermicelli paella, which adds a Taiwanese twist to the traditional Spanish rice dish by substituting rice with vermicelli noodles and adding fresh oysters.
Other crossover dishes include Japanese-style sushi rolls filled with Taiwanese ingredients such as stinky tofu and sweet potato, and Korean-style fried chicken served with Taiwanese-style salt and pepper seasoning.
Where can I find Taiwanese-international crossover cuisine?
Taiwanese-international crossover cuisine is widely available in restaurants and food stalls across Taiwan, particularly in urban areas such as Taipei and Kaohsiung. Some of the most popular restaurants include RAW, which offers modern fine dining using local ingredients, and Addiction Aquatic Development, which specializes in sushi and seafood dishes with a Taiwanese twist.
For a more casual dining experience, head to one of the many night markets in Taiwan, such as the famous Shilin Night Market in Taipei or the Liuhe Tourist Night Market in Kaohsiung. These markets are not only a great place to sample traditional Taiwanese cuisine, but also offer a range of international dishes with a Taiwanese twist.
Regional Specialties: Delicacies from Taiwan’s Different Regions
Taiwan is not just a melting pot of different cultures, but it’s also a hub of various regional specialties. Each region has its unique cuisine and flavours, providing a diverse range of culinary experiences to explore. Here are some must-try regional dishes in Taiwan:
Taipei: Beef Noodles
Beef noodle soup is Taipei’s go-to comfort food. It consists of a hearty broth, hand-pulled noodles, and tender beef shanks, garnished with green onions and cilantro. The best ones are found in small local eateries, known as “beef noodle shops.”
Taichung: Sun Cake
Sun cakes are Taichung’s signature pastry. These flaky cakes are made of a sugary dough with a filling of maltose paste, providing a satisfying crunch with a sweet and gooey centre.
Tainan: Danzai Noodles
Danzai noodles are a must-try when visiting Tainan. This beloved dish consists of thin egg noodles, mixed with minced pork, shrimp, and a broth that is both sweet and savoury. It’s traditionally served in small bowls, perfect for a quick snack on the go.
Kaohsiung: Oyster Omelets
Oyster omelets are Kaohsiung’s famous street food. Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, these omelets are made with fresh oysters, eggs, and starch, providing a unique texture and taste.
Hualien: Taroko Pork
Taroko Pork is a must-try in Hualien. This dish is made by slow-cooking pork belly in a sweet and savoury sauce, infused with Chinese spices and soy sauce, resulting in tender and flavourful meat.
Penghu: Penghu Fish
Penghu fish is a delicacy in Penghu Island. The local fishermen catch the fish with traditional techniques, resulting in fresh and flavourful seafood, perfect for grilling or pan-frying.
Exploring Taiwan’s regional specialties is a fantastic way to experience the country’s diverse cuisine and culture. Each region has its unique dishes, flavours, and techniques, providing a memorable culinary adventure that will leave you craving for more.
S11: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
If you’re new to Taiwanese cuisine, you might have some questions about what to expect. We’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help you navigate and appreciate the unique flavours of Taiwan.
What is Taiwanese food?
Taiwanese cuisine is a blend of different regional Chinese cuisines, as well as some influences from Japan and Southeast Asia. It features a wide range of ingredients and dishes, from savoury noodle soups to sweet shaved ice desserts.
What are some must-try Taiwanese dishes?
There are many delicious Taiwanese dishes, but some of the most iconic include beef noodle soup, xiao long bao (soup dumplings), and gua bao (pork belly buns). For something sweet, try pineapple cakes or shaved ice topped with fruits and syrup.
Is Taiwanese cuisine spicy?
Taiwanese cuisine isn’t typically known for being very spicy, but some dishes can have a bit of heat to them. Many dishes incorporate garlic, ginger and soy sauce, as well as a variety of herbs and spices for flavour.
What are some vegetarian options in Taiwan?
Taiwanese vegetarian cuisine is quite popular and offers a wide variety of dishes. Tofu and mushrooms are commonly used as meat substitutes, and vegetarian hot pot is a favourite. Another popular dish is stinky tofu, fried tofu that has a strong aroma.
What is bubble tea?
Bubble tea is a Taiwanese drink that originated in the 1980s. It’s made with tea, milk, and added flavourings like fruit or syrup, and is typically served with chewy tapioca pearls (also known as “boba”) at the bottom of the cup.
Are there any unique fruits in Taiwan?
Taiwan is home to many exotic fruits that are hard to find elsewhere. Mangoes and lychees are popular, as well as dragon fruit and custard apple. Another unique fruit is the wax apple, which has a crisp and refreshing texture.
What are some popular street food options?
There are many tasty street food options in Taiwan, including deep-fried squid, oyster omelets, and scallion pancakes. Another popular choice is baozi, steamed buns filled with meat or vegetables.
What is Hakka cuisine?
Hakka cuisine is a type of Chinese cuisine that has been heavily influenced by the Hakka people, an ethnic group that originated in China but has spread throughout Southeast Asia. Hakka dishes often incorporate ingredients like preserved vegetables and braised meats.
We hope these answers have helped you learn more about Taiwanese cuisine. Don’t be afraid to try something new and expand your taste buds!
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