Taiwan is a culinary paradise that offers a rich tapestry of flavours and textures, making it a must-visit destination for any food enthusiast. The island’s cuisine is a delightful fusion of Chinese, Japanese, and indigenous influences, resulting in a unique and diverse gastronomic experience.
Here’s a culinary adventure through Taiwan that will leave your taste buds tingling and your heart yearning for more including our top 10 must tries.
Night Markets: The heart of Taiwan’s food culture lies in its bustling night markets. Shilin Night Market in Taipei is one of the most famous, offering an array of street food that is both delicious and affordable. These markets are not just about food; they are a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells that encapsulate the vibrant spirit of Taiwan.
Traditional Dishes: No culinary journey in Taiwan is complete without sampling its traditional dishes.
Here are the top 10 foods you must try when visiting Taiwan:
- Beef Noodle Soup (Niu Rou Mian): This hearty and flavourful dish is a Taiwanese staple, featuring slow-cooked beef in a rich, dark broth with vegetables and thick, chewy noodles2.
- Braised Pork Rice (Lu Rou Fan): A simple yet delicious dish of minced pork braised in soy sauce and served over steamed white rice.
- Bubble Tea (Boba): Originating in Taiwan, this popular drink consists of flavoured iced tea with chewy tapioca pearls.
- Gua Bao: Often referred to as a Taiwanese burger, this street snack features braised pork belly, pickled mustard greens, and crushed peanut powder in a fluffy steamed bun.
- Oyster Omelette (O-A-Chian): A popular night market snack made with fresh oysters, eggs, and a starchy batter, often served with a tangy sauce.
- Stinky Tofu: Despite its pungent smell, this fermented tofu is a beloved street food, typically deep-fried and served with pickled vegetables.
- Pineapple Cake: A sweet pastry filled with pineapple jam, often enjoyed as a snack or souvenir.
- Three-Cup Chicken (Sanbeiji): A flavourful dish made with chicken, soy sauce, rice wine, and sesame oil, cooked until the sauce is reduced to a thick glaze.
- Shaved Ice: A refreshing dessert featuring finely shaved ice topped with various sweet toppings like condensed milk, fruit, and beans.
- Danzai Noodles: A traditional Taiwanese noodle soup with minced pork, shrimp, and a savoury broth, often garnished with cilantro and garlic.
Fine Dining: Taiwan’s culinary scene is not limited to street food. The island boasts several Michelin-starred restaurants that offer exquisite dining experiences. RAW in Taipei, helmed by celebrity chef André Chiang, is a standout, offering innovative dishes that highlight local ingredients. Another notable mention is Le Palais, which serves refined Cantonese cuisine and has been awarded three Michelin stars.
Local Markets: For those who love to cook, a visit to the local markets is a must. The Dongmen Market in Taipei is a treasure trove of fresh produce, seafood, and spices. Here, you can find everything from exotic fruits to freshly caught fish, providing a true taste of Taiwan’s agricultural bounty.
Culinary Tours: To truly immerse yourself in Taiwan’s food culture, consider joining a culinary tour. These tours offer guided experiences through the best food spots, providing insights into the history and preparation of each dish. They are perfect for those who want to explore beyond the usual tourist spots and discover hidden culinary gems.
Tea Culture: Taiwan is renowned for its tea, particularly oolong tea. A visit to a traditional tea house is a serene experience that offers a glimpse into the island’s rich tea culture. The Maokong Gondola in Taipei takes you to the Maokong tea plantations, where you can enjoy a cup of freshly brewed tea while overlooking the lush landscapes.
The above showcases the rich culinary heritage of Taiwan and are a must-try for any food lover visiting the island. Offering a unique taste experience, reflecting the diverse influences and ingredients that make Taiwanese cuisine and culture so special.