Taiwanese cuisine is a culinary treasure trove, offering a rich tapestry of flavors and textures that will leave you craving for more. From comforting bowls of beef noodle soup to crispy oyster omelettes, and from savory braised pork rice to sweet pineapple cakes, Taiwanese cooking has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the streets of Taiwan, highlighting 20 authentic recipes that showcase the best of Taiwanese cuisine.
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking to try something new, these mouthwatering dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into the world of Taiwanese cooking!
Braised Pork Rice (Lu Rou Fan)
A comforting Taiwanese dish that combines tender braised pork belly with fluffy rice and savory flavors. This recipe is a classic take on Lu Rou Fan, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork belly, sliced into 2-inch pieces
– 2 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice (preferably Koshihikari)
– 4 cups pork broth or chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine pork pieces, broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sugar, and sesame oil.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 hours or overnight.
3. Cook Japanese short-grain rice according to package instructions.
4. To assemble, place cooked rice in a bowl, top with braised pork pieces, and garnish with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (braising time) + 20 minutes (cooking rice)
Beef Noodle Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a pick-me-up meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef (such as chuck or round), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups noodles (egg noodles or rice noodles work well)
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine beef, noodles, broth, onion, garlic, carrot, and celery.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the beef is tender.
3. Add thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Oyster Omelette (O Ah Jian)
A popular street food in Taiwan and Singapore, Oyster Omelette is a savory and flavorful dish that combines the brininess of oysters with the richness of eggs. In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make a delicious Oyster Omelette at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup oyster liquid (or 2-3 dried oysters rehydrated in water)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Beat the eggs in a bowl and set aside.
2. Heat the oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
3. Pour in the eggs and cook until the edges start to set (about 30 seconds).
4. Add the oyster liquid or rehydrated oysters to one half of the omelette.
5. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
6. Use a spatula to gently fold the other half of the omelette over the filling.
7. Cook for another minute, then serve hot with chopped scallions on top (if desired).
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Scallion Pancake (Cong You Bing)
This popular Chinese street food is a delicious and savory treat that’s easy to make at home. Scallion pancakes are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and packed with flavorful scallions.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 scallions, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, warm water, salt, and baking powder. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Divide the dough into 4-6 equal portions, depending on desired pancake size.
4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle, about 1/8 inch thick.
5. Brush the center of each circle with vegetable oil and sprinkle with chopped scallions.
6. Fold the dough in half to form a triangle or a square shape, pressing edges together to seal.
7. Cook pancakes in a non-stick skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, until crispy and golden brown.
8. Serve warm with soy sauce (optional).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Three Cup Chicken (San Bei Ji)
A classic Chinese dish from the Hunan province, Three Cup Chicken is a flavorful and savory meal that’s easy to prepare. This recipe uses just three cups of ingredients – soy sauce, chicken broth, and Shaoxing wine – to create a rich and aromatic sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 3 cups:
+ 1 cup soy sauce
+ 1 cup chicken broth
+ 1 cup Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 1/4 cup scallions, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, ginger, and scallions; stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Pour in the three cups of ingredients; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over steamed rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bubble Tea (Boba Milk Tea)
Experience the delightful fusion of tea, milk, and chewy boba with this simple recipe. Perfect for hot summer days or any time you need a pick-me-up!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups strong brewed black tea (or green tea)
– 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy, such as almond or soy milk)
– 1/4 cup tapioca pearls (boba)
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Ice
– Flavorings like fruit syrup or jasmine tea leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brew the tea according to package instructions.
2. In a large glass, combine the brewed tea and milk. Stir well to mix.
3. Add the tapioca pearls to the tea mixture and let them soak for at least 30 minutes.
4. If desired, add honey or flavorings to taste.
5. Fill the glass with ice and stir gently.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few steps.
Stinky Tofu (Chou Doufu)
Experience the infamous Taiwanese street food sensation with this simple recipe! Stinky Tofu, also known as Chou Doufu, is a fermented tofu dish that’s strong on flavor and aroma.
Ingredients:
– 1 block of firm or extra-firm tofu
– 1/4 cup of stinky tofu starter (available at Asian markets) or homemade starter mixture*
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the tofu into small cubes.
2. In a bowl, mix the stinky tofu starter with 1/4 cup of water to create a paste.
3. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened.
5. Add the tofu cubes and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown.
6. Add the soy sauce and stinky tofu paste; stir-fry for another minute.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes
Gua Bao (Taiwanese Pork Belly Buns)
Get ready to savor the rich flavors of Taiwan with these tender pork belly buns, steamed to perfection and served with a sweet and spicy dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork belly, skin removed
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp five-spice powder
– 1/4 cup water
– 20-25 pieces of gua bao dough (or store-bought buns)
– Dipping sauce (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large pot, combine pork belly, brown sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and five-spice powder. Add water and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 hours or until pork is tender.
4. Steam gua bao dough according to package instructions.
5. Assemble buns by placing cooked pork belly onto the steamed buns.
Dipping Sauce:
– 1/2 cup hoisin sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1 tsp sugar
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
Mix all ingredients together and serve with Gua Bao.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (pork belly) + steaming time for buns
Zongzi (Sticky Rice Dumplings)
Zongzi, a traditional Chinese snack, is a must-try during the Dragon Boat Festival. These sticky rice dumplings are steamed to perfection and filled with sweet fillings.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of glutinous rice
– 1 cup of water
– 1/4 cup of brown sugar
– 1/4 cup of red bean paste (or other filling of your choice)
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– Bamboo or wooden sticks for wrapping
Instructions:
1. Rinse the glutinous rice and soak it in water for at least 4 hours.
2. Drain the water and mix the rice with brown sugar until well combined.
3. Divide the rice mixture into small portions and shape each portion into a ball.
4. Flatten each ball slightly to form a disk shape.
5. Place a spoonful of red bean paste (or your chosen filling) in the center of each disk.
6. Fold the rice over the filling, forming a triangle or square shape, and secure with bamboo sticks.
7. Steam the zongzi for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Enjoy your delicious homemade Zongzi!
Dan Bing (Taiwanese Egg Crepe)
A classic Taiwanese breakfast treat, Dan Bing is a delicate egg crepe wrapped around a savory filling. This simple recipe yields a crispy and tender crepe that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Filling ingredients (e.g., diced vegetables, cooked meat, or tofu)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and salt until smooth.
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 the egg mixture into the pan. Tilt the pan to evenly coat the bottom.
4. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the edges start to curl and the surface is almost set.
5. Loosen the crepe with a spatula, then flip it over. Cook for another minute.
6. Repeat with remaining egg mixture.
7. Fill cooked crepes with your choice of ingredients and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on filling complexity)
Pineapple Cake (Feng Li Su)
This classic Chinese dessert is a staple at many Asian celebrations, with its moist cake soaked in a sweet and tangy pineapple syrup. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 large eggs
– 1 can (8 oz) crushed pineapple
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. Add softened butter and eggs; mix until smooth.
4. Stir in crushed pineapple and pineapple juice.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
7. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Fried Chicken Cutlet (Ji Pai)
This classic Korean-inspired dish is a crowd-pleaser, with its crunchy exterior and juicy interior. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the simple process of making crispy fried chicken cutlets.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Cut the chicken breasts into thin cutlets.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, cornstarch, and panko breadcrumbs.
3. Dip each chicken cutlet in the beaten egg, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the chicken cutlets for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Ba Wan (Taiwanese Meatball Dumplings)
Bring a taste of Taiwan to your table with this comforting dish, featuring tender meatballs wrapped in soft dumpling wrappers and served in a savory broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1/4 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Water for wrapping
– Broth ingredients: 2 cups chicken or pork broth, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 tablespoon sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large pot of water and add the wonton wrappers. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine ground pork, chopped cabbage, garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until just combined.
3. Lay a cooked wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place a small spoonful of meat mixture in the center.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges to seal the dumpling.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. In a large pot, combine broth ingredients and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and add the Ba Wan.
7. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked through. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Taro Ball Dessert
Taro balls are a popular dessert in many Asian cultures, and with this recipe, you can easily make these sweet treats at home. This dessert is perfect for warm weather as it’s light, refreshing, and utterly delicious.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups taro root (cooked and mashed)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup water
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed taro root, sugar, flour, and salt. Mix until well combined.
2. Gradually add in the water and mix until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
4. Divide the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
6. Fry the taro balls for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and puffed up.
7. Remove the taro balls from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
8. Dust the taro balls with powdered sugar and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Minced Pork Over Rice (Rou Zao Fan)
This classic Chinese dish is a comforting staple that combines tender minced pork with savory seasonings and fluffy rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup minced pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook white rice according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add minced pork and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes.
5. Serve the pork mixture over cooked rice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Taiwanese Sausage with Sticky Rice
Experience the rich flavors of Taiwanese cuisine with this simple and satisfying dish. Crispy Taiwanese sausage is served alongside a bed of creamy sticky rice, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Taiwanese sausages (Lao Gan Ma brand recommended)
– 1 cup uncooked glutinous rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the glutinous rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add the Taiwanese sausages and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side, until crispy and golden brown.
3. Serve the cooked sausages alongside the sticky rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Salt and Pepper Chicken (Yan Su Ji)
A classic Sichuan dish that combines the simplicity of salt, pepper, and chicken with the numbing sensation of Szechuan peppercorns. This recipe is a great introduction to the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 tsp Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1 tsp coarse salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 2 tbsp cornstarch
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together Szechuan peppercorns, salt, and black pepper.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and cornstarch mixture to the wok. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Add the Szechuan peppercorn mixture to the wok and stir-fry for another minute.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Sweet Potato Congee
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious Sweet Potato Congee, a traditional Chinese comfort food. This creamy, sweet, and savory porridge is perfect for a chilly day or as a soothing breakfast option.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 cups water
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: scallions, toasted nuts, or dried herbs for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine sweet potatoes and water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 30 minutes, or until sweet potatoes are tender.
2. Add sesame oil, onion, and garlic to the pot. Stir well and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
3. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the mixture until smooth.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with your choice of scallions, toasted nuts, or dried herbs.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Taiwanese Hot Pot
Experience the warmth and camaraderie of Taiwanese hot pot with this simple and flavorful recipe. Gather your friends and family around the table to enjoy a delicious and interactive meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork or beef slices (or combination)
– 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, sliced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon ground white pepper
– Noodles or rice for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken broth, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add sliced pork or beef, chicken, onion, and garlic. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the meat is cooked through.
3. Season with white pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot pot with noodles or rice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shaved Ice Dessert (Bao Bing)
A classic Chinese dessert that’s perfect for hot summer days, Bao Bing is a sweet and refreshing treat made with shaved ice, flavored syrups, and various toppings. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized to your liking.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup shaved ice
– 1/2 cup fruit syrup (such as strawberry or mango)
– 1/4 cup condensed milk
– 1/4 cup chopped nuts or sesame seeds (optional)
– Fresh fruit slices (such as strawberries, kiwi, or pineapple) and whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, shave the ice into fine flakes.
2. Add the fruit syrup and mix until the ice is well coated.
3. Pour in the condensed milk and mix until the mixture reaches your desired sweetness level.
4. Sprinkle chopped nuts or sesame seeds on top (if using).
5. Arrange fresh fruit slices and whipped cream on top (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None
Summary
Discover the flavors of Taiwan with these 20 authentic recipes. From comforting bowls like Braised Pork Rice and Beef Noodle Soup to street food favorites like Oyster Omelette and Stinky Tofu, there’s something for every palate. Don’t miss the sweet treats like Pineapple Cake and Shaved Ice Dessert, or the savory dishes like Three Cup Chicken and Salt and Pepper Chicken. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking to try new flavors, these recipes are sure to bring a taste of Taiwan into your kitchen.
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