Taiwan's night markets are a unique feature of the island's food culture. These markets are known for their bustling energy, vibrant atmosphere, and delicious street food. Here are some of the characteristics that make Taiwan's night markets so special:
Wide variety of street food: Night markets in Taiwan offer a huge selection of mouth-watering street food, from savory stinky tofu and oyster omelets to sweet shaved ice and bubble tea. Each night market has its own specialties and local delicacies, so there's always something new to try.
Affordable prices: One of the best things about Taiwan's night markets is the affordability of the food. Visitors can sample a variety of dishes without breaking the bank, making it an ideal destination for budget travelers.
Vibrant atmosphere: Night markets are a hub of activity in Taiwan, and the energy and excitement are palpable. Vendors call out their wares, neon signs flash overhead, and crowds of locals and tourists mingle and jostle their way through the narrow alleys.
Local culture: Taiwan's night markets are an important part of the country's cultural identity, and they reflect the island's unique blend of Chinese, Japanese, and indigenous cultures. From traditional snacks like oyster vermicelli and grilled squid to modern fusions like popcorn chicken and fried taro balls, night markets offer a glimpse into the diverse culinary landscape of Taiwan.
Late-night hours: Night markets in Taiwan typically operate from late afternoon until midnight or even later, making them a popular destination for late-night snacking and socializing. Many markets also feature live music, games, and other forms of entertainment, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere.
For oversea tourists, there are many must-try street foods at Taiwan's night markets. Here are the five of the most popular you must to try.
1. Stinky tofu: Although its strong odor can be off-putting to some, stinky tofu is a beloved street food in Taiwan. It's deep-fried and served with spicy sauce, pickled vegetables, and herbs, and has a unique and flavorful taste.
2. Oyster omelet: A classic Taiwanese snack, oyster omelets are made with eggs, small oysters, and sweet potato starch. They're pan-fried and topped with a sweet and tangy sauce.
3. Bubble tea: A signature Taiwanese drink, bubble tea is a refreshing and sweet beverage made with tea, milk, and chewy tapioca balls. It comes in a variety of flavors and can be served hot or cold.
4. Braised pork rice: It is a popular comfort food in Taiwan and can be found in a variety of restaurants, from local street vendors to high-end establishments. To make the dish, diced or ground pork belly is first braised in a mixture of soy sauce, rice wine, sugar, and spices like star anise and cinnamon. The meat becomes tender and flavorful as it simmers in the savory sauce, which is absorbed by the rice when it's served together. It's a simple but satisfying dish that is a must-try for anyone visiting Taiwan who wants to experience the country's culinary culture.
5. Mango shaved ice: It is a popular dessert in Taiwan that is particularly refreshing during the hot summer months. The dish features a generous amount of ripe, sweet mango, layered on top of shaved ice, and topped with a variety of toppings such as condensed milk, syrup, and sometimes even small pieces of mochi or other fruits. To make the dish, the ripe mango is sliced and arranged on top of a bed of shaved ice, which is finely shaved ice that is fluffy and soft. Condensed milk or syrup is drizzled on top of the mango, creating a sweet and creamy flavor combination. The dish is then served with a spoon, allowing diners to mix the mango and ice together.
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