Eating in China
Taiwanese Savoury Sticky Rice

Taiwanese Savoury Sticky Rice

Chinese name
台式油饭
Mandarin pinyin
Táishì yóufàn

Steamed glutinous rice mixed with pork, dried shrimp, shiitake mushrooms, lard and fried shallots. Youfan is savoury rice, not a sweet rice pudding.

Heat
Region
Taiwan
Type
Order in Chinese

At the table

How to enjoy it

Take small spoonfuls and chew well. Ask about sauces and extra toppings; they differ by vendor.

A useful check

Contains pork and shrimp. The dense sticky texture is not suitable for every child or anyone with swallowing difficulty.

How it may vary

Seasonings and additions vary. Enriched versions may include taro, bamboo shoots or peanuts; these are not universal.

GET TO KNOW THE DISH

What goes into it?

Explore some key ingredients below. Preparations may use additional seasonings and ingredients.

Seasonings and additions vary. Enriched versions may include taro, bamboo shoots or peanuts; these are not universal.

Recipes vary by restaurant.

How does it taste?

Savoury, mushroom-rich and aromatic with shallots.

Chili heat
Texture
Sticky, chewy grains with tender pork and mushrooms.
How it’s made
Steamed glutinous rice is mixed with cooked aromatic ingredients and fat.

Seasonings and additions vary. Enriched versions may include taro, bamboo shoots or peanuts; these are not universal.

A CONNECTION TO PLACE

Origin & regional roots

Explore regional food

Associated with Taiwan.

About this regional connection

Taiwan: Youfan is associated with festivals and a baby’s first-month celebration in Taiwan, and is also sold in traditional markets. Its ingredients are mixed into the rice rather than just laid on top.

Ask if they have it first

ASK IF IT'S AVAILABLE

请问你们有台式油饭吗?

Do you have this item?

A LITTLE SOMETHING TO READ

Story & history

Rice for celebrations and markets

Youfan is associated with festivals and a baby’s first-month celebration in Taiwan, and is also sold in traditional markets. Its ingredients are mixed into the rice rather than just laid on top.

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