Must-Try Foods in Taiwan Night Market
Taiwan is a paradise for foodies, and this is evident at its vibrant night markets. These vibrant food discovery destinations offer a rich selection of scrumptious street food, which is a component of the Taiwan food culture.
Whether it is sweets or meaty desserts, the Taiwanese night markets have an abundance of taste. Whether you are a regular tourist or a new one, the following is a list of some of the must-eat foods that can make your visit to that market a memorable one.
Must Try Foods in Taiwan
1. Stinky Tofu: A Taste of Taiwan’s Boldest Snack
One of the most famous, as well as controversial, foods is called Stinky Tofu. The stinking tofu has become a big hit amongst foodies of the night market, though it has a very pungent smell. Tofu normally is deep-fried to become crispy on the outside yet elastic and soft inside.
It is usually accompanied by hot pickled cabbage, spicy chili sauce most of the time. A snack that challenges your taste and rewards you with a unique and tasty flavor.
What Makes Stinky Tofu Special?
The smell of tofu that is stinky tofu can be a bit overwhelming. However, the flavour of tofu is far from unpleasant! Tofu is made by brewing in a brine made of plants, herbs, and spices. This is what gives it that distinctive aroma. Do not let the scent put you off-once you’ve had one bite, you’ll be attracted!
2. Bubble Tea: Taiwan’s Iconic Drink
How better to get cool from the heat of Taiwan than with a cool drink of bubbly tea? The savoury drink was invented in Taiwan, is a blend of tea, soft tapioca pearls, as well as various sweet flavourings including milk, fruits as well and matcha.
The Evolution of Bubble Tea
It is referred to as boba tea is now a worldwide phenomenon. It was believed to have been created in the 80s, and its popularity increased. It doesn’t matter if you’re a fan of traditional milk tea, a fruit tea, or a drink that resembles slushies; the night markets in Taiwan offer an array of choices for all tastes.
3. Pepper Meat Bun
The Pepper Meat Bun is a popular snack in Taiwan with a really tasty and unique flavor. The bun is soft and fluffy, and inside it’s filled with spicy pepper meat. The meat is cooked with soy sauce, garlic, and pepper, giving it a yummy mix of salty and spicy flavors. This warm, savory snack is perfect for a quick bite and is something you definitely have to try when visiting Taiwan!
The Perfect Fusion of Flavors
The warm, pillowy bun is a great match with the juicy, fall-off-the-bone pork belly, and the tangy sour flavor of the pickled greens and peanuts is just great as they are crunchy, delicious, and juicy. Gua Bao is an ideal mixture of flavors and textures, so it can be said that this is one of the most ordered dishes in the market of Taiwan at night.
4. Taiwanese Sausage: A Sizzling Delight
Taiwan night markets are filled with a mouth-watering scent of hot Taiwanese sausages. The sausages are normally made up of a smatter of spices and pork and are quite palatable and rich. They are normally served on sticks with basil, garlic, and even chili sauce toppings.
Why Taiwan’s Sausage is a Night Market Favorite
The sausages are then grilled to perfection, and have a crispy exterior and a delicious interior. Some vendors have a version called “small sausage in a big sausage,” that is where the Taiwanese sausage is encased in the grainy rice sausage. Double-layered sausages are an exceptional treat that is not to be left out!
5. Oyster Omelette: A Flavor Explosion
The oyster omelette is a Taiwanese savory dish that consists of fresh oysters and batter made using sweet potato starch with a broad assortment of vegetables. The top on it consists of some spicy and sweet sauce to make an exquisite mixture of enjoying steaming and tasting.
How Oyster Omelette Became a Street Food Staple
The recipe dates to the 16th century. It has become a cult street food across Taiwan. The crunchy, chewy, and crispy taste of the omelette is a perfect match with oysters that are soft, which makes this dish an absolute must in any market at night.
6. Lu Rou Fan: Taiwanese Comfort Food
Lu Rou Fan is a delicious and simple dish made up of braised minced pork that is served with rice. It is cooked slowly using soy sauce five five-spice powder, as well as other spices and produces a delicious and savory sauce, ideal for drizzling over steamed rice.
The Story Behind Taiwan’s Beloved Braised Pork Rice
Lu Rou Fan is a Taiwanese comfort food, and it was found in the night markets, restaurants, and also in homes around the island. It will be the ideal comforting food and is delicious as well as satiating food, and therefore, it is an experience that every person who wishes to have a taste of the traditional ways of preparing food deserves to check out.
7. Taiwanese Popcorn Chicken: Crunchy and Flavorful
Taiwanese popcorn chicken can be described as a cult street food, which is crunchy on the outside but tender inside. Chicken is marinated with garlic, soy sauce, and spices before being deep-fried until crispy. It’s usually served with a few basil leaves for a more flavorful taste.
What Sets Popcorn Chicken Apart?
The popcorn chicken secret of Taiwan is the seasoning. The crispy skin is normally delicious and possesses a special blend of five spice powders, which gives the chicken an exquisite taste that will keep people coming back to take more.
8. Pineapple Cake: A Sweet Souvenir from Taiwan
A delicious pineapple cake is a Taiwanese cake that’s now an increasingly sought-after souvenir item for travelers. The small golden cakes are packed with a sweet and tangy pineapple icing, and are topped with an airy and flaky cake crust.
How Pineapple Cake Became a Taiwan Tradition
Although pineapple cakes are typically offered in containers for travelers, it’s also a typical snack that is sold in the night markets of Taiwan. The cake is an ideal combination of sweet and tart flavor, making it a perfect treat for taking home to serve as dessert on your evening market excursion.
9. Beef Noodles: Comfort in Every Bite
Beef noodles are a different Taiwanese traditional dish that is worth exploring at night markets. It is a dish made of soft pieces of beef simmered in a rich broth, served with noodles and other vegetables. It’s a warming and delicious recipe that’s ideal for any time of the season.
Taiwan’s Beef Noodle Soup: A Rich and Savory Experience
The broth should be flavored with soy sauce and star anise, among others, making it a very comforting dish. Whether you like it spicy or mild, the beef noodles should be labeled as a must-try dish that has survived the culinary tradition of Taiwan.
10. Mango Shaved Ice: A Refreshing Summer Treat
Mango Shaved Ice is one of the favorite foodstuffs that are common at the market in summer. The mixture of cold mango and sweet ice cream, with creamy milk, is a perfect recipe to cool off, being also indulgent with something sweet.
The Origins of Taiwan’s Mango Shaved Ice
Mango Shaved Ice is one of the most popular desserts that’s frequently served at the market during summer. The blend of cold mango, sweet ice, and creamy milk is an ideal way to cool off while indulgent in something sweet.
Where to Stay in Taiwan
Taiwan has a variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotel rooms to cozy hostels. Based on what you prefer, here are some locations to stay in to take advantage of the lively culture of Taiwan and its markets at night:
- Regent Hotel Taipei (Taipei): A luxury hotel offering elegant rooms, fantastic dining, and top-notch services. It’s conveniently located close to the city’s business districts and night markets, making it a great choice for both business and leisure travelers.
- W Taipei (Taipei City): A high-end hotel with modern amenities, chic rooms, as well as rooftop bars. It is conveniently situated near the shopping districts and famous night markets, such as Shilin and Shilin, which make it the perfect choice for people who enjoy food.
- The Howard Plaza Hotel (Kaohsiung): A well-known choice for those traveling to Kaohsiung. The hotel provides comfortable rooms as well as excellent services. The hotel is situated near the renowned Liuhe Night Market. It’s an essential stop for foodies who love street food.
- CityInn Hotel Plus (Taipei): Modern, budget-friendly hotel that provides excellent service and an excellent position. The hotel is situated in Ximending. It is within walking distance of two shopping centres and a variety of night markets. It also gives you convenient access to the most delicious street food available in the city.
The Les Suites Taipei Da-An (Taipei): A boutique hotel featuring chic, warm rooms and a warm ambience. It’s located close to Da-An Park and several night markets places, such as the renowned Tonghua Night Market, known for its local food.
In Summary
Night markets in Taiwan constitute a crucial aspect of the culinary and cultural scene. These markets offer a unique opportunity to sample many of the most loved food items from Taiwanese culinary tradition. From spicy tofu to gummy bubble tea to everything that lies between, there’s a lack of tasty foods that you can try. If you happen to be in Taiwan, be sure to explore these bustling markets and taste the delicious cuisine of this incredible location.
FAQs about Taiwan
1: Should I bring cash when visiting the night markets?
A: Yes, it’s a good idea to bring cash. Most night market vendors don’t accept credit cards, so having cash on hand will make your food experience smoother!
2. What’s the most appropriate moment to attend the night market in Taiwan?
The night markets in Taiwan typically begin to fill up at 5:00 pm and remain open till midnight or even later. The best time to go is in the evening hours when the marketplaces are the busiest.
3. Are there vegetarian alternatives in the Taiwan market nights?
Many market nights offer vegetarian options such as vegetarian dumplings made of vegetables, tofu, and spring rolls made of vegetables. Make sure you check with the vendor in case you’re not sure.
4. What is the most famous evening market that’s held on the island of Taiwan?
Shilin Night Market in Taipei is one of the most famous markets in Taiwan. It has lots of street food and fun things to do. Another great market to visit is Raohe Night Market, also in Taipei. It’s known for its tasty food and lively atmosphere. Both are perfect places to enjoy local snacks and have a good time!
5. Can night market food be spicy?
Some foods, such as stinky tofu or sausages, can be very spicy; however, most evening market food options have a range of flavor that include sweet, savory, and mild alternatives.
