Paochueh Temple is not only a significant religious site in Taichung, Taiwan, but it is also a place where visitors can explore traditional Taiwanese flavors and street food delights. The temple area is renowned for integrating Buddhist vegetarian concepts into the local cuisine, as it is common to find vegetarian food stalls and eateries nearby, catering to the dietary restrictions of Buddhist devotees and monks.
Over the years, the vicinity of Paochueh Temple has become a repository of Taichung local culture, where different foods, from snacks to full meals, reflective of Taiwanese gastronomic heritage have made their way into the hearts of locals and travelers alike.
1. Stinky Tofu (Non-Veg): A Taiwanese street food staple known for its pungent aroma, often served deep-fried with pickled cabbage.
2. Bubble Tea (Vegetarian): Iconic Taiwanese beverage, also known as boba tea, made with tea, milk, and chewy tapioca balls.
3. Taiwanese Fried Rice Noodles (Vegetarian/Vegan options available): A dish of stir-fried rice noodles with vegetables, often with options to add egg or meat.
4. Vegetarian Dumplings (Vegetarian): Dumplings filled with a variety of vegetables, tofu, and occasionally, imitation meat.
5. Scallion Pancakes (Vegetarian): Flaky, pan-fried pancakes that are crispy on the outside with layers of green onions within.
6. Pineapple Cake (Vegetarian): A beloved Taiwanese pastry with a crumbly crust and a sweet pineapple filling.
7. Oyster Omelette (Non-Veg): A savory omelette made with eggs, fresh oysters, and greens, typically glazed with a sweet and savory sauce.
8. Soy Milk and Youtiao (Vegetarian): A popular breakfast duo; warm soy milk paired with deep-fried dough sticks.
9. Braised Pork Rice (Non-Veg): A homey dish of rice topped with braised pork and often accompanied by pickled vegetables.
10. Taiwanese Sweet Soups (Desserts) (Vegetarian): A variety of traditional sweet soups made with beans, taro, tapioca pearls, and sweet potatoes.
Vegetarian House
Address: No. 100, Section 1, Meicun Road, West District, Taichung City, Taiwan 403
Famous Food: Vegetarian Hot Pot (Vegetarian)
Old Street Taiwanese Gourmet
Address: No. 23, Luchuan West Street, North District, Taichung City, Taiwan 404
Famous Food: Traditional Taiwanese Small Plates (Non-Veg options available)
Chun Shui Tang
Address: No. 66, Siwei Street, West District, Taichung City, Taiwan 403
Famous Food: Original Bubble Tea (Vegetarian) and Shrimp Rolls (Non-Veg)
Lai Lai Green Bean Dessert Shop
Address: No. 38, Chongde Road, North District, Taichung City, Taiwan 404
Famous Food: Sweet Green Bean Soup (Vegetarian)
Spring Onion Pancake King
Address: Close to Taichung Park, Taichung City, Taiwan
Famous Food: Scallion Pancakes (Vegetarian)