Hualien Pufferfish

Hualien Pufferfish

　　Pufferfish often inhabit reef and rocky areas, and their intestines can sometimes accumulate toxic substances, which is why people in Taiwan rarely try them. However, the Amis people living along the east coast have a tradition of eating pufferfish. They skillfully catch non-toxic varieties with short spines, first roasting them over fire, then shelling and gutting them before cooking the meat into a soup. Due to its tender texture, it has long been considered a delicacy among the elderly. Hualien City’s renowned “The Best Pufferfish Specialty Store” offers everything from Japanese-style preparations such as sashimi and pufferfish-infused shochu, to Chinese-style dishes including three-cup, cold tossed, steamed, sweet-and-sour, liver stir-fry, and deep-fried versions. These are paired with a mixed cocktail of Amis rice-flavor liquor and Anoectochilus tea, providing an intoxicating taste of the rugged flavors of Amis cuisine.