Buzz
Taiwanese cuisine is a delightful blend of flavors, offering a perfect fusion of culinary styles from Chiu Chow, Fujian in China, and influences from neighboring countries such as Japan and Korea. If you get the chance to visit Taiwan, be sure to indulge in the 9 recommended dishes suggested by Mytour.
1. Daifuku
Also known as mochi, Daifuku is a popular Japanese dessert that has gained fame in Taiwan. The outer layer of the cake is made from glutinous rice flour, with a sweet filling typically composed of finely ground red beans or various fruits. The most popular choice is strawberry with fresh cream. Daifuku comes in various types, with the classic white, light green, or pale pink outer covering being the most common.
2. Pineapple cake with salted egg yolk
A favored treat among tourists in Taiwan, this cake features a rich aroma from pineapple combined with the savory taste of salted egg yolk, creating an irresistible delicacy that will keep you coming back for more.
3. Bubble Tea
Taiwan is a paradise for bubble tea enthusiasts. Visiting Taiwan without sipping on bubble tea is like not truly experiencing this destination. You can purchase bubble tea everywhere, from night markets to street-side shops. Almost everyone in Taiwan is seen holding a cup of bubble tea. This iconic drink made its debut in 1980 when Lin Hsiu, feeling a bit bored, decided to drop a few sweet tapioca pearls into his tea. From that moment, the famous bubble tea was born.
4. Iron Eggs (also known as Tea Eggs)
Iron eggs are a renowned dish from Tamsui, Taiwan. Perhaps named for their outward appearance—dark in color and seemingly unappetizing at first glance. In reality, they are made from chicken, quail, and pigeon eggs. These eggs are simmered for about a week until the yolk turns a deep green, and the egg white takes on a brown hue. The distinct aroma of these eggs, sometimes prepared with horse urine in the past, is sold throughout Taiwan and enjoyed by many despite its strong scent.
5. Dumplings
Dumplings originated from Guangdong, China, and have become a popular dish in Taiwan. Made from meat, seafood, and finely chopped vegetables, these dumplings are wrapped in a wheat flour dough and then steamed until cooked. Once steamed, the translucent white dough reveals the flavorful filling inside. Dumplings are typically served with a broth seasoned with various spices and green onions. The delicious and refreshing taste of this dish will make you want to savor every last drop of soup.
6. Onion Cake or Radish Cake
Alongside dumplings, trying onion cake or radish cake is a must when visiting Taiwan. As the name suggests, the cake's outer layer is made from flour, while the inner filling is crafted from either radish or onions, topped with a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Despite its simple ingredients, this cake is a favorite among many travelers exploring Taiwan.
7. Bolo Bun
Bolo bun, also known as melon pan or pineapple bun, doesn't contain pineapple but is named for its crust, which is divided into square patterns resembling a pineapple's skin. This treat is perfect for breakfast or as a snack, paired with a warm cup of milk.
8. Taro
Taro may look dark, twisted, and spiky on the outside, but inside, it's soft, sweet, and white. Taro is typically prepared by boiling or steaming, and in Taiwan, you can savor this dish at various night markets.
9. Snow Ice Cream
Snow ice cream is a delightful creation inspired by Taiwan's traditional shaved ice. It's a fascinating blend of ice cream flavors like green tea, mango, and vanilla, combined with various fruits and toppings. This enticing treat captivates diners with the smooth and chilly sensation of shaved ice, complemented by the rich creaminess of ice cream and the sweet, refreshing taste of syrup. Moreover, you can customize it with additional toppings according to your personal preferences.
By Hà Mi/Source: Matadornetwork.com
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Reference: Travel guide Mytour
MytourOctober 19, 2016
