When anyone mentions Taiwanese food, the first thing that comes to mind is the ever-popular Bubble Tea (Boba). But, did you know that Taiwanese food comprises so much more? Well, you will now! And our non-Boba suggestions will make you want to give them all a try.
Braised Beef Noodle Soup (红烧牛肉面) (Halal)
Braised Beef Noodle is an icon of Taiwanese cuisine. The Beef is chewy and tender, with a spaz of flavouring. The soup is also rich in flavour as well, and the noodles are often handmade by the chefs of any establishment. However, I do advise that you drink lots of water after eating this dish, as the ‘yitt hay’ from will cause your throat to get sore. (I had experienced it, and it ruined the 2nd half of my Taiwan trip).
Spice Meter: Mild
Mala Hot Pot (麻辣火锅) (Non-Halal)
The Mala Hot Pot is another iconic Taiwanese dish. The authentic hot pot is different from local hot pots in the umami of the broth. You can order any cut of meat to go with your hot pot broth, just like the braised beef noodle dish… You need to drink a lot of water after eating this dish. And, the perfect season to enjoy Mala Hot Pot is during the winter season.
Photo: Pop Daily Hong KongBraised Pork Rice (卤肉饭) (Non-Halal)
Considered as comfort food by Taiwanese residents, the braised pork rice consists of rice and minced pork cooked in soy sauce. It’s very flavourful, and usually comes with a hard boiled egg and vegetables, typically bok choy. Also, it’s best to eat it well mixed together, with the rice and meat at a balanced ratio for a fuller experience.
Turkey Rice (火鸡饭) (Halal)
A staple food of Chiayi City of Taiwan, Turkey rice is just like the braised pork rice. But, it’s turkey meat! OH EHMM GEE!! The turkey rice is a sister/ spin off dish of the braised pork rice. Its’ also served with hard boiled egg and vegetables. Just like BPR, turkey rice is best eaten when its all mixed well together.
Oyster Omelette (蚵仔煎) (Could be Halal or Non-halal)
Mostly eaten as street food in Taiwan, the oyster omelette is a regular egg omelette cooked with oyster and drizzled with sweet sauce. Just like the other dishes mentioned in this article, the oyster omelette is a staple of Taiwanese food and is loved by both tourists and locals. There are variations of this dish all over Taiwan, each of which brings a different flavour and style to it.
Always remember to drink lots of water after eating all this yummy food. And hopefully, these dishes will help you develop a taste for Taiwanese food – besides just Boba!
Once you’ve had a bite, there’s no turning back.
