Taiwan is a country that is known for its bustling night markets and delicious street food. Taiwanese snacks and drinks are popular not just within Taiwan, but also around the world. In this article, we will explore some of the most popular Taiwanese snacks and drinks that you can enjoy.
Popular Taiwanese Snacks:
- Bubble Tea – Bubble tea, also known as boba tea, is a Taiwanese drink that has gained immense popularity in recent years. It is made by combining tea, milk, and sugar with chewy tapioca balls. This refreshing drink is available in a variety of flavors and is a favorite among many people.
- Pineapple Cake – Pineapple cake is a traditional Taiwanese snack that is made from a buttery pastry filled with sweet pineapple filling. These cakes are often given as gifts and are a popular souvenir for tourists.
- Scallion Pancake – Scallion pancake, also known as cong you bing, is a savory pancake made with flour, scallions, and sesame oil. It is a popular breakfast item and is often sold at Taiwanese night markets.
- Fried Chicken – Fried chicken is a popular street food in Taiwan. It is made by marinating chicken pieces in soy sauce and spices before frying them to crispy perfection. This snack is often served with a side of sweet chili sauce.
- Taro Balls – Taro balls are a sweet snack made from taro root that is boiled and mashed into a sticky dough. The dough is then rolled into small balls and served with sweet syrup or condensed milk.
- Gua Bao – Gua bao, also known as pork belly buns, is a popular Taiwanese snack made with a fluffy steamed bun filled with braised pork belly, pickled vegetables, and cilantro. This snack is often sold at Taiwanese night markets and is a must-try for anyone visiting Taiwan.
- Stinky Tofu – Stinky tofu is a polarizing Taiwanese snack that is made by fermenting tofu in a brine made from milk, vegetables, and meat. It has a strong odor that is either loved or hated by people. This snack is often served deep-fried with a side of pickled vegetables.
Popular Taiwanese Drinks:
- Bubble Tea – So nice I listed it twice. As mentioned earlier, bubble tea is a popular Taiwanese drink that has taken the world by storm. It is available in a variety of flavors and can be customized with different types of milk and sweeteners.
- Soy Milk – Soy milk is a popular drink in Taiwan and is often served as a breakfast item. It is made by soaking and grinding soybeans, then straining the mixture to produce a creamy liquid. It is often served with savory Chinese donuts known as youtiao.
- Green Tea – Green tea is a popular Taiwanese drink that is known for its health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants and is believed to help with digestion and weight loss. Green tea is often served hot or cold and can be enjoyed with a variety of snacks.
- Taiwan Beer – Taiwan beer is a popular alcoholic beverage in Taiwan. It is a light lager that is brewed using high-quality ingredients and is known for its crisp and refreshing taste. It is often enjoyed with fried snacks or grilled meats.
- Lemon Ai Yu Jelly – Lemon Ai Yu jelly is a refreshing drink made from the seeds of a type of fig tree. The seeds are boiled with sugar and lemon juice to produce a jelly-like substance that is then mixed with water to create a refreshing drink. This drink is often served with a scoop of shaved ice.
- Winter Melon Tea – Winter melon tea is a popular Taiwanese drink made from winter melon, a type of gourd that is often used in Chinese cuisine. The melon is boiled with rock sugar to produce a sweet and refreshing tea that is often served cold. It is a popular drink during the summer months and is known for its cooling properties.
- Milk Tea – Milk tea is a popular Taiwanese drink that is made by combining black tea with milk and sugar. It is often served hot or cold and can be customized with different flavors and toppings such as boba or grass jelly.
Snack On
Taiwanese snacks and drinks are a must-try for anyone visiting Taiwan or looking to explore new flavors. From the refreshing taste of bubble tea to the savory goodness of scallion pancakes, there is something for everyone. So next time you find yourself in Taiwan, make sure to visit a night market and indulge in some of the delicious snacks and drinks that this country has to offer.
