Live Shrimp at Liyu Lake

Live Shrimp at Liyu Lake

　　The carp, silver carp, tilapia, and small shrimp abundant in Liyu Lake are all popular dishes at over 10 lakeside restaurants, but the live shrimp is especially renowned. The tiny shrimp are soaked in a marinade of wine, vinegar, ginger, and garlic, then served after being simmered for 3–5 minutes once the shrimp are stunned, resulting in a dish full of authentic flavor. In addition, Youle Restaurant by the lake is famous for its dishes made with Anoectochilus formosanus. Known as the “King of Chinese Herbal Medicine,” this plant is native to warm temperate forests at altitudes of 800–1800 meters and is said to invigorate cells, nourish the liver, and treat gout. Youle was the first to incorporate Anoectochilus formosanus into its cuisine, offering not only stewed chicken, scrambled eggs, and shredded meat soup, but also herbal liquor, each with a distinctive flavor. (Hualien County)