So, I haven’t been to all the food-cities in the world, but I have been to some. So, as of right now, Taiwan sits on the top of the list of the best food destination I have ever visited.
About Taiwanese food
In Taiwan, food is as important as breathing. Sometimes more. Food holds a special place of pride, so it goes to say that Taiwan has a vibrant food culture. From delicious street food to Michelin star restaurants and everything in between, food in Taiwan is guaranteed to leave an everlasting impression on your mind (and tongue) forever. Allow me to say that this country is one of the best “culinary museum.”
Taiwanese cuisine is greatly influenced by Chinese cuisine but most of the speciality food here comes from the Aboriginal kitchens which has greatly influenced the island’s food scene. Many years of colonial rule by Portuguese and Japanese have added to the culinary scene making it a truly global mix of flavours. It is believed that most loved dishes of today wouldn’t have existed years of global trade and colonialism.
However you have two ethnic race to thank for: Hakka people for the flavours associated with Taiwan (such as the thick basil-rich soups, mung beans, pan-fried noodles etc) and the people from Fujian (for the sweet, heady flavours of minced pork on rice or, pork belly buns)
Top FIVE foods to eat
1. Braised pork and rice
The country’s most loved comfort food, braised pork rice is simple and uncomplicated. Easy to prepare and pocket-friendly – it is basically fatty port braised in soy and served over rice.
2. Scallion pancake
The scallion pancake (quite similar to Indian stuffed paratha) is essentially scallions mixed into the dough and pan-fried until crisp.
3. Fan Tuan
Handheld, portable breakfast fan tuan, is like a roll of sticky rice filled with pickled radish, pickled mustard greens, braised egg, and pork floss (the traditional) to egg, bacon or sugar. The rice can be of any colour -purple is especially popular — and this dish is served wrapped in plastic.
4. Stinky Tofu
So stinky tofu should be given the same status as some of the other “stinky” but world’s finest foods – like blue cheese. And Durian. And Century Eggs (and even balut). So there is no need to wrinkle your nose and stare down at this delicious Taiwanese specialty. The reason for the smell? Fermentation. However the local people believe the smellier, the better. Remember – the stink is in the nose, not on your tongue.
5. Oyster Omelette
Easily a hot favourite amongst the locals and visitors – this dish contains melt-in-the-mouth fresh oyster and eggs mixed with sweet potato starch with a dash of pepper before pouring it all onto a hot pan.
Pineapple CakeEasily the country’s most celebrated and prized pastry, the pineapple cake is also the proof of Taiwan’s pineapple-growing history. These palm-sized shortbread tarts stuffed with tangy pineapple or sweet winter melon paste are delicious, making it the most popular souvenir.
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Is it safe to eat street food in Taiwan?
Simple answer: YES.
Taiwan’s street food is safe to eat. In fact, you’ll be surprised at the cleanliness and orderliness quite unlike a few cities I have been to. You are NOT likely to hear horror stories of “Delhi-belly” here. All vendors wear gloves and masks when handling food – just in case you are worried about germs and stuff.
Here is what a typical day’s meal would look like –
- Breakfast: Scallion pancake, dumpling, pork bun, sweet or salty soy milk, fan tuan
- Midday snack
- Lunch: Freshly made dumplings (in a soup or own their own) or Rice with braised pork.
- Dinner: If you at a night market, then of course your choice is endless. Grilled meats and fish, fried taro, noodles, soups.
- Midnight snack (again, at the night market)
Where is all the food?
Everywhere. Well, I did tell you that Taiwan loves food, didn’t I?
Often you don’t need to ask for directions or follow a Google map – simply follow your nose. Like I said before, Taiwan is a huge, live culinary-museum which means, everywhere (and all times), there is food to be had. Nearly every inch of sidewalk in Taipei doubles as a dining room. Taipei loves lining up, and if there’s a line out the door of a restaurant, chances are it’s worth the wait. Aside from one-off street stalls and full-blown restaurants, there are a few other unexpected spots for a great meal.
Street markets are best
Taiwan literally eats on the street – be it standing around a food stall, on a bench outside the food stall, at an informal street-side restaurant or at night markets. Small stools and low tables can be found in few places too – and as you wait for your food to arrive, watch your vendor flip scallion pancakes!
Shilin Night Market
This is not just a must-see place, it is also a must-eat place. As the largest night market, it definitely has its merits (and demerits – thanks to the heavy footfalls). The food variety available here is mind-boggling and you can eat your way through the market and not suffer a dent in your pocket.
The food at Shilin is the best. There is an indoor food court plus a ton of street stalls with all the tasty things that Taiwan has to offer. This is also the best place to try out pork pepper buns.
Ningxia Night Market
Located in the heart of downtown Taipei on Ningxia Rd, this traditional street night market much like many that existed across Taiwan 20 or more years ago. Much loved by the locals and visitors, this night market feature restaurant styled stalls (with seating options) and the best place to enjoy an oyster omelette.
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