Nothing powers exploration like nibbles that pack wallops of flair, energy and flavour on the go
1. Hweori gamja (potato tornado)
This carb-loaded force of nature keeps everyone – from children to supermodels – fortified in South Korea. In Myeongdong, Seoul, grab this spiralled tuber that’s unfurled down a bamboo stick and deep-fried. Sprinkle it with onion salt, or drizzle honey over.
SEE ALSO: 6 food streets all true foodies must visit in South-east Asia
2. Dondurma (Turkish ice cream)
Watch out! That’s dondurma being slung towards you and twirled in every other direction on a long metal rod. Serving Turkish ice cream is a performance art executed by charming vendors in traditional costume. Pick from classic flavours of vanilla, pistachio and rose at stalls lining Istanbul’s Taksim Square.
3. Taco
Born in Mexico and launched into global consciousness by hip American eateries, the taco is a mini tortilla sandwich brimming with fillings from beef tongue to ice cream. Catch one of El Tonayense’s wildly popular taco trucks roaming San Francisco for a hearty meal that packs a punch.
4. Satay (meat skewer)
In Singapore, sections of hawker centres are dedicated to executing the simple yet satisfying formula of meat on sticks, marinated with spices and caramelised over a charcoal grill. It’s best eaten with a thick peanut sauce. The historic Lau Pa Sat in Singapore’s financial district has the city state’s sole satay street – it’s open only after dark.
5. XXL chicken cutlet
Go big or go home. In Taiwan, chomp on a butterflied and deep-fried slab of chicken breast liberally coated with sweet and spicy seasonings. At Shilin, Taipei’s most popular night market, Hot-Star’s version is the heavyweight favourite, weighing more than 453g each.
– TEXT BY DESIREE KOH
PHOTOS: HOT STAR SINGAPORE, EL TONAYENSE, SINGAPORE PRESS HOLDINGS, 123RF.COM
This article was originally published by Singapore Press Holdings.
