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Taiwanese cuisine is a delicious mix of cultures — from Chinese and indigenous roots to Japanese influences and modern twists. What makes it truly special is the Taiwanese love for bold flavors, unique textures, and the joy of sharing food, especially through its vibrant street food scene.
Growing up, Guan Miao Mian (關廟麵) was always a staple in our home. Personally, it became one of my favourite types of noodles because of its unique texture. My Lao Ma would always say, “A good bowl of noodles starts with the right kind of noodle.” And for me, that noodle was Guan Miao Mian.
LaoMa – Coming to Singapore; Menu decision!
Dear Diary,
Time flies! Before I knew it, my son’s little noodle business had expanded so much and so well that they will be going to Singapore! While as a mother I will always have my worries like the old saying “養兒一百歲，長憂九十九” but I have full confidence that my little boy will do well!
We have been discussing some of my cooking that our Singapore friends will like but he still can’t decide what to put on the menu. My heart feels like a pot of broth on the stove—boiling with excitement but also a little anxious. Singapore is such an interesting place, so many different flavors, so many different people… I’m going to help him think of some dishes!
The dishes have to be something comforting, yet authentic to Taiwan. Hm…yes, I got it, Pork Chop Noodles! Who wouldn’t love that? Soft, sun-dried noodles, perfectly chewy, topped with a pork chop so big, larger than my hand! It reminds me of those giant pork chops I used to eat in the streets of Tainan… crispy outside, juicy inside. But paired with noodles? Mm, I know it will be even better!
The Hua Diao Chicken Noodle! Something I always made for my son before he went out to surf… Garlic Chicken Noodle Soup. I used to worry so much about him out in the cold ocean, so I made sure the soup was rich, warm, and full of flavor – this dish is for anyone looking for warmth. Come, come, LaoMa will take care of you!
Now… what else? Maybe something that shows a little of my fiery personality. Back in the day, if I had a guest I wasn’t too fond of, I would serve them my special Mala Hotpot Noodles—so spicy, the broth turned as red as my temper! But ay… turns out I made it too well. Instead of suffering, they would gulp it down and say, “LaoMa, this is amazing!” Sigh… So in the end, my plan didn’t work! But never mind, now I’ll put it on the menu, so everyone can enjoy, and hopefully not suffer from the heat.
Alright, that’s enough thinking for tonight. This old brain of mine needs a rest! Tomorrow, I’ll sit down with my sons and brainstorm more. I just hope that when people eat my noodles, they can taste the warmth, the love, and the memories in every bite.
– Laoma