Beef noodle soup (niu rou mian) is the unofficial national dish of Taiwan. The soup draws on the spicy flavors of China’s Sichuan province. Star anise, cloves, cinnamon, Sichuan pepper, and fennel seeds help create a rich and spicy broth that coats the noodles, which are accompanied by slices of tender beef shank and bright greens.
Where to eat it:
• Tao Yuan Street Beef Noodles, 15 Taoyuan St., Zhongzheng district
• Yong Kang Beef Noodles, No. 17, Lane 31, Section 2, Jinshan South Road, Da’an district
Soup dumplings (xiao long bao) originated in the city of Nanxiang, China, but Taiwan is known for producing dumplings with a thinner, more delicate skin than the mainland versions. The dumplings are traditionally stuffed with pork but can also contain crab, chicken, or other meaty substitutes. The "soup" part of the dumpling is a gelatinous broth that melts when the dumpling is steamed. Be cautious when biting into a soup dumpling, because it is easy to burn your tongue or to let the delicious soup spill out onto your plate. For best results, place a dumpling on a spoon, take a nibble out of the side, and let it cool a bit before sucking the broth out.
Where to eat them:
• Din Tai Fung, a chain famous for its soup dumplings, has multiple locations in Taipei. Check the English version of its website at www.dintaifung.com.tw/eng. — SUSIE L. MA
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