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Bookman

Preface

Do you know what the top priority for Taiwanese people is? Yes,
you’re right! Food! And do you know how many snacks and delicacies
are available on the island? We don’t know the answer either, as the
number is difficult to count, and new dishes are likely being created
as you read this book. Not until this research have we realize that

Taiwanese snacks and delicacies are closely related to historical figures
and events. The renowned general Zheng Chenggong not only defeated
the Dutch but left his mark on popular seafood dishes such as an oyster

omelet and milkfish. Many stories derive from Taiwanese cultural
values, exhibiting the Taiwanese hopes and aspirations for a better life.
Trotters are eaten for good luck, while coffin bread (or treasure chest)
express for success in work or business.

Many delicacies have borne witness to Taiwan’s history and

economic development: the sweet pengbing, once enjoyed only by
rich people in the early days in Tainan, is also a nutritious component
in postpartum care. The ever-popular Taiwan wheel cakes originated
from a Japanese snack introduced during the Japanese rule. Bawan
was life-saving food given to villagers after floods. Turkeys wasn’t

seen until the US military were stationed in Taiwan. The popular beef
noodle dish was created by a soldier who retreated from China with the
KMT government. Papaya milk was created in harmony with Taiwan’s

progress in dairy farming and fruit cultivation. Taiwanese food stories

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2023/6/19 上午9:30
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美好食光.indd 11 2023/6/19 上午9:30