Food History of Keelung Miaokou Night Market, Keelung, Taiwan
Keelung Miaokou Night Market has a rich and diverse culinary history, reflecting the cultural melting pot of Keelung's bustling port area. Historically, it has been a gathering place for fishermen, merchants, and locals, who collectively contributed to the market's eclectic food scene. The market gained prominence in the early 20th century and has since become famous for its wide array of traditional Taiwanese snacks, seafood dishes, and sweet treats. The word "Miaokou" translates to "temple entrance," with the market located around the Dianji Temple, further infusing the food culture with a sense of tradition and community.
Top 10 Food Dishes in Keelung Miaokou Night Market for Tourists
- Tempura (甜不辣) – Non-Veg: A fish cake snack deep-fried and often seasoned with a unique blend of spices.
- Seafood Vermicelli (海產米粉) – Non-Veg: Rice vermicelli noodles served with a variety of fresh seafood, popular due to Keelung's proximity to the sea.
- Pot Edge Noodle Soup (鍋巴麵線) – Non-Veg: A savory soup with noodles characterized by the crispy rice stuck to the edges of the cooking pot.
- Gao Ji (糕渣) – Veg: A steamed rice cake mixed with radish and served as a light snack or side dish.
- Braised Dishes (滷味) – Non-Veg: Various items such as tofu, eggs, and meats braised in a soy sauce-based broth.
- Four Spirits Soup (四神湯) – Non-Veg: A traditional Chinese soup believed to have medicinal properties, often containing pork and a mix of Chinese medicinal herbs.
- Stinky Tofu (臭豆腐) – Veg: Fermented tofu with a strong odor, deep-fried and served with pickled vegetables.
- Oyster Omelette (蚵仔煎) – Non-Veg: A local favorite featuring small oysters cooked into an egg and starch mixture, giving it a unique texture.
- Grilled Squid (烤魷魚) – Non-Veg: Fresh squid grilled to perfection, often enjoyed with soy sauce and spices.
- Sweet Potato Balls (地瓜球) – Veg: Bite-sized, deep-fried sweet potato treats that are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside.
Top Famous Restaurants in Keelung Miaokou Night Market
- Nutritious Sandwich (健康三明治)
- Address: No. 5-1, Aisi Road, Ren’ai District, Keelung City
- Famous Food: Sandwiches with a selection of fillings – Veg/Non-Veg
- Yi’s Stinky Tofu (義氏臭豆腐)
- Address: No. 19, Ai 3rd Road, Ren’ai District, Keelung City
- Famous Food: Stinky Tofu – Veg
- Kuo’s Rice Noodle (郭家米粉)
- Address: At the cross-section between Ai 4th Road and Ren 3rd Road, Ren’ai District, Keelung City
- Famous Food: Seafood Vermicelli – Non-Veg