Shuangbaotai

Shuangbaotai, affectionately known as "horse hooves" is a beloved Taiwanese delicacy often found sizzling at street vendor stalls and bustling night markets. This delightful fried dough snack is renowned for its unique texture—a perfect blend of chewy insides with large air pockets and a satisfyingly crispy exterior.

The charm of shuangbaotai lies in its straightforward preparation. Two small pieces of dough are twisted together and then fried, creating a slight separation while remaining connected, much like conjoined twins. This distinctive appearance is the origin of its name. In Mandarin Chinese, "shuāngbāotāi" (雙胞胎) translates directly to "twins." In Taiwanese Hokkien, it's referred to as 馬花糋 (bé-hoe-chìⁿ), meaning "horse-hoof cake" a nod to its shape. Another Hokkien name for this snack is 雙生仔 (siang-siⁿ-á), which also means twins.

Although shuangbaotai may not be commonly found in traditional restaurants or bakeries, it is a staple of Taiwan's vibrant street food culture. Whether you're exploring a night market or stopping by a street vendor, this tasty treat is a must-try for its delightful combination of textures and flavors.