TASTE OF TAIWAN: Street Food in Taipei (Part 1)

Food is central to any culture, especially that of Taiwan. Taiwanese cuisine is unique to its people and reflects the diversity and beauty of Taiwan. This is the first part of this blog post because there is simply too much delicious Taiwanese food to share!

NIGHT MARKETS

Taiwan is world renowned for its street food, usually found at night markets. Night markets are marketplaces that operate at night and generally consist of sidewalks occupied by vendors selling clothing, street foods, specialty drinks, and consumer goods. These marketplaces are noisy and crowded with hawkers (vendors who shout to advertise and sell their goods), tourists, and Taiwanese civilians. The food at these night markets are central to the culture of Taiwan.

STINKY TOFU

Stinky tofu is one of my favorite Taiwanese street foods. This dish is made of fermented tofu that has a strong odor. Stinky tofu is often served with picked vegetables, such as lettuce and carrots. Though many people believe that this dish has a displeasing smell, it definitely has a pleasant taste (you won't know unless you try!).

POPCORN CHICKEN

Taiwanese popcorn chicken is one of the most popular night market dishes. This dish consists of small, bite-sizes pieces of chicken, usually seasoned with salt, pepper, and other unique spices. Most popcorn chicken stands also have deep fried oyster mushrooms, one of my favorite street foods in Taipei!

BOBA!!!

Boba milk tea, pearl milk tea, however you refer to it, this drink is not only a street food, but is an anywhere food (drink technically). But, I had to include it because I absolutely love love love boba anywhere, anytime.