"Exploring Taiwan's Unique Cuisine Through a History of Colonization"

Taiwanese food is distinct from Chinese cuisine, with its own unique pantry items and a sweeter flavor profile, influenced by the island's history of colonization. The Dutch and Japanese occupations shaped Taiwan's sugar and rice industries, leading to the incorporation of sugar in savory dishes and the cultivation of short-grain rice. Shuixian Gong Market in Tainan showcases the abundance of fresh ingredients and traditional Taiwanese cuisine staples, reflecting the island's culinary heritage.