Taiwanese cuisine is a fusion of different flavors and textures, blending traditional Chinese cooking techniques with indigenous ingredients and influences from other cultures. The result is a vibrant culinary scene that has captured the hearts (and taste buds) of people around the world. From comforting bowls of beef noodle soup to crispy fried chicken and savory braised pork rice, Taiwanese dishes are known for their bold flavors, satisfying textures, and rich aromas.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious and iconic Taiwanese recipes that everyone loves. Whether you’re a foodie looking to try new dishes or just want to experience the authentic flavors of Taiwan, these recipes will take you on a culinary journey through the island nation’s most beloved dishes.
Braised Pork Rice (Lu Rou Fan)
A classic comfort food from Taiwan, Braised Pork Rice is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any meal. The rich pork broth and tender pork belly served over fluffy rice is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly or pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup braising liquid (pork broth, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine)
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Pour in braising liquid and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until pork is tender.
4. Serve pork over cooked rice. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Beef Noodle Soup
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This beef noodle soup is a perfect remedy for a cold day or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup egg noodles
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
5. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions.
6. Add the cooked noodles and thyme to the pot; season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (includes cooking time for beef)
Scallion Pancakes
These crispy and savory scallion pancakes are a popular street food in China, perfect for snacking or serving as an appetizer. With a simple combination of ingredients and easy cooking process, you can enjoy these addictive treats at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup scallions (green onions), chopped
– 1/4 cup water
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, and salt.
2. Gradually add in water to form a dough. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
3. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and flatten slightly into a disk shape.
4. Brush both sides of the pancake with a little water, then sprinkle chopped scallions on one side.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook pancakes for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Three Cup Chicken
A classic Chinese dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, Three Cup Chicken is a staple of Sichuan cuisine. This recipe combines savory soy sauce, aromatic sesame oil, and sweet chicken broth for a mouthwatering experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 3 cups mixed ingredients (see below)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Mixed Ingredients:
– 1 cup sliced scallions
– 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
– 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts or cashews
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic.
3. Add chicken thighs and toss to coat; let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Remove chicken from marinade; place in a baking dish.
5. Pour mixed ingredients over the chicken; bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Oyster Omelette
This classic French dish is a twist on the traditional omelette, adding the brininess of fresh oysters to create a flavorful and indulgent breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup freshly shucked oysters (about 6-8 pieces)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk together with a fork.
2. Heat the butter in a medium non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour the egg mixture into the skillet and cook until the edges start to set, about 30 seconds.
4. Add the oysters to one half of the omelette and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Use a spatula to gently fold the other half of the omelette over the oysters.
6. Cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, until the eggs are almost set.
7. Slide the omelette onto a plate and garnish with parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Bubble Milk Tea
Get ready to quench your thirst with this easy-to-make bubble milk tea recipe, featuring a perfect blend of creamy milk and chewy bubbles. This comforting drink is sure to become your new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup black tea leaves (or 1 tea bag)
– 1 cup whole milk or non-dairy milk alternative (such as almond milk or soy milk)
– 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup tapioca pearls (boba)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
2. Add tea leaves or tea bag and let steep for 3-5 minutes, depending on your desired level of bitterness.
3. Strain the tea into a large mug or teapot.
4. Add milk, sugar (if using), and salt. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.
5. Cook tapioca pearls according to package instructions. Typically, this involves soaking them in water for 30 minutes, then boiling them for 10-15 minutes, or until they’re chewy and tender.
6. Add cooked boba to the tea and stir gently.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your refreshing bubble milk tea!
Stinky Tofu
Stinky tofu, also known as chòu dòufu () in Chinese, is a popular street food in Taiwan and other parts of Asia. This fermented tofu dish has a strong smell that might put off some people, but the flavors are actually quite complex and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of extra-firm tofu
– 1/2 cup of pickling liquid (usually a mixture of vinegar, soy sauce, and spices)
– 1/4 cup of rice wine or Chinese cooking wine
– 1/4 cup of vegetable oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of grated ginger
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the tofu into small cubes and soak them in the pickling liquid for at least 24 hours.
2. In a pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and ginger and stir-fry until fragrant.
3. Remove the tofu from the pickling liquid and add it to the pan. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, or until the tofu is lightly browned.
4. Pour in the rice wine and stir-fry for another minute.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Taiwanese Fried Chicken
A classic Taiwanese street food favorite, this crispy fried chicken recipe combines the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Perfect for a quick snack or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken pieces (legs, thighs, wings, breasts)
– 1 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground white pepper
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cornstarch, flour, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and white pepper.
2. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and toss until coated.
3. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
6. Fry chicken in batches until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes per batch.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total cooking time.
Zongzi (Sticky Rice Dumplings)
Zongzi, a traditional Chinese food, is typically served during the Dragon Boat Festival. This recipe combines glutinous rice with savory fillings and wraps them in bamboo leaves for a delicious and unique snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked glutinous rice
– 1/4 cup pork or chicken filling (see below)
– 10-12 bamboo leaves, fresh or frozen
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
Pork Filling:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Mix cooked glutinous rice with pork filling.
2. Lay a bamboo leaf flat on a work surface. Place about 1/4 cup of the rice mixture in the center of the leaf.
3. Fold the bottom half of the leaf up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a compact package.
4. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
5. Steam zongzi for 30-40 minutes or boil for 10-15 minutes.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (steaming), 10-15 minutes (boiling)
Gua Bao (Pork Belly Buns)
Experience the flavors of Taiwan with this iconic street food recipe, featuring tender pork belly served on a soft bun with crispy vegetables and tangy pickled mustard greens.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 4 soft buns (store-bought or homemade)
– Pickled mustard greens (see below for recipe)
– Thinly sliced scallions and cucumber
Pickled Mustard Greens:
– 1/2 cup mustard greens, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1 tbsp sugar
– 1 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, and rice vinegar. Add the pork belly and marinate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Roast the pork belly in the oven for 2-3 hours, or until tender and caramelized.
4. Meanwhile, toast the buns by grilling them lightly or baking for 5 minutes.
5. Assemble the Gua Bao by slicing the roasted pork belly into thick strips and placing it on a toasted bun with pickled mustard greens, scallions, and cucumber.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (including marinating time)
Dan Bing (Taiwanese Egg Crepe)
Dan Bing, also known as Taiwanese Egg Crepe, is a popular street food in Taiwan. This thin, crispy crepe is filled with a savory egg mixture and often served with a variety of toppings.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Filling ingredients (choose one or more): diced pork, chopped scallions, pickled mustard greens, chili flakes
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, water, and salt until well combined.
2. Heat a small non-stick pan over medium heat. Brush the pan with 1/2 teaspoon of vegetable oil.
3. Pour about 1/4 cup of egg mixture into the pan. Tilt the pan to evenly coat the surface.
4. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the edges start to curl and the surface is dry.
5. Loosen the crepe with a spatula and flip it over. Cook for another minute.
6. Repeat with remaining egg mixture.
7. Fill each crepe with your chosen ingredients.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes for all the crepes.
Turnip Cake (Lo Bak Go)
This traditional Cantonese dish is a staple during Chinese New Year celebrations and other special occasions. Turnip cakes are savory, slightly sweet, and perfect for snacking or serving as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large turnips, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine turnip gratings, cornstarch, scallions, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Add vegetable oil, beaten eggs, and soy sauce (if using). Mix until a dough forms.
3. Divide the dough into small portions and shape each into a patty or ball.
4. Heat about 1 inch of water in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Place the patties in the wok, cover with a lid, and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy on the bottom.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Taiwanese Sausage with Sticky Rice
This classic Taiwanese dish combines savory sausage with fluffy sticky rice, making it a satisfying and filling meal. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy this flavorful combination at home.
Ingredients:
– 4 Taiwanese sausages (Linguiang or Chinese sausage)
– 1 cup sticky rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the sticky rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain the water and set aside.
2. Cook the sticky rice according to package instructions or by steaming it with the right amount of water for about 20-25 minutes, or until fluffy.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Grill the Taiwanese sausages for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and slightly charred.
4. Serve the grilled sausage with the steamed sticky rice. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Milkfish Belly Soup
Milkfish belly soup is a comforting and flavorful Filipino dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe showcases the tender and rich flavor of milkfish belly, cooked to perfection in a creamy broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound milkfish belly, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup coconut cream
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened.
2. Add milkfish belly pieces; cook for 5 minutes or until lightly browned.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low; simmer for 10-15 minutes or until milkfish is cooked through.
4. Stir in coconut cream. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Moon Shrimp Cakes
Celebrate the magic of the moon with these crispy and flavorful shrimp cakes, infused with a hint of lunar-inspired spices. Perfect as an appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine shrimp, panko breadcrumbs, cheese, olive oil, onion, garlic, paprika, Old Bay seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well until just combined.
4. Divide mixture into 6-8 portions, depending on desired size.
5. Shape each portion into a patty.
6. Dip patties in mayonnaise and then coat with breadcrumbs.
7. Place cakes on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sugar-Coated Sweet Potatos
Sweet Potato Delight: A Simple Recipe for Sugar-Coated Sweet Potatoes
Get ready to impress your family and friends with this sweet and savory treat!
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large sweet potatoes
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork several times and bake for 45-50 minutes or until soft.
3. In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar, brown sugar, honey, and cinnamon.
4. Remove the sweet potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly.
5. Slice off the top of each sweet potato and scoop out some of the flesh to create a shell.
6. Place the sugar mixture inside each sweet potato shell, dividing it evenly among the three.
7. Return the filled sweet potatoes to the oven for an additional 10-12 minutes or until the sugar is caramelized.
Cooking Time: Total cooking time is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes (45-50 minutes for baking the sweet potatoes and 10-12 minutes for caramelize the sugar).
Eel Noodles
Eel noodles, also known as unagi soba, is a popular Japanese dish that combines the rich flavor of grilled eel with the comforting warmth of noodles. This simple recipe captures the essence of this beloved dish, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Japanese-style noodles (soba or udon)
– 1/2 pound of eel fillets (grilled or broiled)
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons of sake (Japanese rice wine) or dry white wine
– 1 tablespoon of mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– 1 teaspoon of sugar
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Slice the grilled eel into thin strips.
3. In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, sake or white wine, mirin, and sugar. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Combine cooked noodles and eel in a serving bowl. Pour the sauce over the top.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pineapple Cake
This moist and flavorful cake is infused with the sweetness of pineapple and the tanginess of cream cheese, making it a perfect dessert for any occasion. With its tender crumb and caramelized glaze, this cake is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup crushed pineapple
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. Add softened butter and mix until just combined.
4. Stir in crushed pineapple, cream cheese, eggs, and vanilla extract.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth tops.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the bold flavors of Taiwan with these 18 mouthwatering recipes! From classic dishes like Braised Pork Rice and Beef Noodle Soup, to street food favorites like Scallion Pancakes and Stinky Tofu, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to make comforting Taiwanese Fried Chicken and savory Zongzi dumplings, or try your hand at sweet treats like Pineapple Cake and Sugar-Coated Sweet Potatoes. With this collection of recipes, you’ll be transported to the bustling streets of Taipei in no time!
