Tantalising Taiwan Treats

Tasting local treats in a new country is always an experience to savour. Not only are the smells, colourful sights, the feel of the air and the movement of people a feast for the senses, it also sheds new light on living life the local way.

Majestic peaks, basins, coastlines, rolling hills and plains are some of the natural wonders that line the landscape of Taiwan. Affectionately known as the "Heart of Asia", this country's rich multifaceted culture is the perfect destination for foodies from all around the world. Placing emphasis on the perfect combination of aroma, flavour, colour and shape, Taiwanese culinary experts have managed to fuse traditional local Chinese specialities from all areas of China into new culinary treats. Its street food, which is by no means, inferior to Chinese delicacies, provides its hungry and curious visitors with further insight into the origins of its people. Here are some must-tries when travelling in Taiwan:

Beef Noodles

Also known as "niu rou mian", this is tender stewed beef, vegetables and noodles served in a thick yet light beef broth that is spicy and dark reddish-brown in colour. One cannot leave Taipei without visiting Niu Ba Ba or (Father Cow) on Chungsiao Road. Though humble in decor, with a clean and friendly atmosphere (it once had the privilege of welcoming the famous Jet Li), it serves 16 amazing types of beef noodles. 

Bubble Tea

Bubble tea, pearl tea or "babo", is a dessert drink served chilled or cold. Usually in milk tea form, it contains chewy balls known as 'bubbles' or 'pearls'. These pearls are made from tapioca starch in almost perfectly round shapes, not too hard, yet not too mushy. There are many variants for the types of tea used, but green tea and red tea are most popular in Taiwan. Travellers in Taichung City could choose a stall to try "babo" from the 300 to 400 vendors at Zhonghua Night Market, which also happens to be the favourite night market for the people of Taichung. 

Tau Foo Fah Ais

Taiwanese "tou foo fah" or "douhua" is very soft tofu in pudding form, served with sweetened topping such as beans, cooked oatmeal, tapioca and peanuts. Ginger or almond-flavoured syrup is usually paired with the unsweetened pudding. During summer in Taiwan, it is served with crushed ice, a perfect companion when visiting Dianji Temple in Keelung City.

Xiao Long Bao

Consists of a small bun, steamed in little bamboo baskets. Although it originated from China, the world's best "xiao long bao" is said to be found in Din Tai Fung, Taiwan. Din Tai Fung, Taiwan's pride, is an award-winning restaurant that has now found its way worldwide. The ideal "bao" should have a thin skin that does not tear up easily and is able to just hold the meat sauce. Its savoury filling should consist of succulent non-pasty meat.

Shaved Ice Dessert

Shaved ice dessert or "baobing" is actually finely shaved ice with texture as soft as snow. Varieties of this dessert include milk ice or finely shaved ice topped with fruit syrup, condensed milk and small chunks of fresh fruit. Sweetened beans and brown sugar syrup is added to compliment the refreshingly cold dessert! Cold dessert shops in Shilin Night Market's "Lover's Lane" usually attracts students from Taipei City.