Hujiao bing

Hújiāo bǐng, or Pepper Bun, is a cherished street food originating from Fuzhou, the capital of China's Fujian province. Over time, it has gained significant popularity in Taiwan, where it is a staple in vibrant night markets and diverse food stalls.

So, what exactly is a Pepper Bun? It’s a delectable baked bun with a crispy outer shell made from a straightforward dough composed of flour, water, and a leavening agent. The enchantment lies within the savory filling of marinated meat—typically pork—seasoned with sugar, soy sauce, pepper, and scallions.

The origins of Hújiāo bǐng are somewhat ambiguous, but it is widely believed to have come from Fuzhou, brought to Taiwan by Fuzhounese immigrants. The preparation involves rolling out a thin dough and incorporating fats to make it exceptionally crunchy. The marinated meat filling is placed on the dough, generously topped with scallions, and then sealed before being baked in a high-heat clay oven.

Pepper Buns gained international acclaim after being featured on TV shows like Anthony Bourdain's "The Layover" and Hong Kong's "Neighborhood Gourmet." Nowadays, they are a must-try for anyone visiting Taiwan. Their popularity often results in long lines at vendors, with some customers purchasing in bulk to make the wait worthwhile. These vendors sometimes close early once they run out of ingredients for the day.

What makes Hújiāo bǐng so irresistible? It’s all about the contrast between the crispy exterior and the juicy, flavorful meat inside, paired perfectly with the fresh taste of scallions. If you ever have the opportunity to try one, you'll understand why so many people are willing to stand in line for this delectable treat!