The Mysterious Rice Noodles: Not Your Typical Noodle Experience
Rumored to be distinct from flat noodles, rice noodles have a unique identity that is hard to comprehend until you've tasted them. Numerous YouTubers, especially those claiming to be locals, assert that rice noodles are a category of their own, entirely different from flat noodles. However, to an outsider, they appear quite similar—at least, that's how I see it.
Zhong Zhen Market serves as a hub or birthplace for rice noodles, a culinary creation brought to Taiwan by elderly settlers. Walking down the streets, you'll come across countless rice noodle shops, making it impossible to try them all in a single visit. Each establishment likely boasts its distinct flavors and characteristics.
When unsure which shop to choose, the best approach is to seek off-site advice, perhaps through a local friend's recommendation. This ensures a certain level of quality, preventing disappointment. Zhong Zhen Cheng was the recommended spot for us, with locals urging us to hurry before it closed. Zhong Zhen Cheng only operates during breakfast and lunch, closing its doors at 13:30 in the afternoon.
If you're unsure about choosing and want to savor all the ingredients, go for the signature rice noodles. It includes meat slices, pork liver, and egg—all in one dish. Whether you prefer it dry or with soup depends on personal preference. Additionally, you can try ordering a portion of pea starch noodles, a rare Taiwanese delicacy.
The interior of the restaurant underwent a recent renovation, resulting in a bright and welcoming atmosphere. However, the seating arrangement might be a bit snug due to the limited space.
The cold-mixed dishes generally share a similar seasoning, so you can choose based on your preferences or cravings.
The texture of pea starch noodles is quite unique; it's not like konjac and has a melt-in-your-mouth quality. In terms of taste, the noodles themselves are rather neutral, relying on the flavor of the sauce. The sauce is appetizing, carrying a tangy and refreshing acidity, making it particularly suitable for consumption during the summer.
Finally, the highlight arrives with the introduction of the signature rice noodles at this local "Rice Noodle Old Shop," renowned for its unique ingredient combinations and outstanding culinary skills. The rice noodles are crafted to perfection, maintaining an ideal thickness, offering a delightful chewiness. The pork slices strike a balance between tenderness and firmness, while the pork liver exhibits a smooth texture. The eggs are expertly cooked with options of fully or partially cooked, and the freshness of the scrambled eggs is undeniable.
In terms of soup base, it leans slightly towards the salty side, presenting a deep soy color with hints of scallion and pepper aromas. It's rich without being overpowering, leaving a lingering and satisfying taste. Overall, this establishment has expertly rearranged various ingredients, presenting an astonishing flavor combination that brings a delightful and fresh culinary experience.
While rice noodles indeed differ from flat noodles, the dissimilarity might stem from variations in proportions during preparation and differences in thickness when cutting. Understandably, there may be some perceptual differences. Nevertheless, the flavor is highly palatable, reminiscent of soup bases encountered in mainland China. It's definitely worth a try!
忠貞誠
地址：320桃園市中壢區前龍街38號
電話：034658818
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