China Airlines Launches Limited-Edition “Hakka In-Flight Meal” Available Only in Business Class on 5 New Southbound Routes

▲ China Airlines’ “Hakka In-Flight Meal,” featuring one of the three main dishes: Red-Yam Duck Leg Rolls. (Photo / Provided by China Airlines)

Reported by Lai Wen-xuan / Taipei

Starting September 1, China Airlines will introduce the “Taoyuan Hakka Delicacies” in-flight meal, available exclusively in business class on five New Southbound routes departing from Taoyuan to Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hanoi. The three main dishes include Red-Yam Duck Leg Rolls, Hakka Three-Treasures Braised Pork, and Hakka Soybean Paste Chicken. These dishes incorporate common Hakka cooking techniques using four key seasonings, offering passengers a fresh and innovative taste experience during their flight.

▲ %The in-flight meal will be available in business class on the five New Southbound routes. (Photo / Provided by China Airlines)

China Airlines collaborated with the Taoyuan City Government’s Hakka Affairs Bureau and China Pacific Catering Services to develop the Hakka in-flight meal. Utilizing common Hakka cooking methods and four essential seasonings, the meal combines flavors such as pickled vegetables, mushrooms, tofu, and dried radish. It highlights the earthy, rich tastes that Hakka cuisine is known for, while also offering a moderate level of spiciness without being overly hot.

The three main dishes integrate signature Hakka sauces and locally sourced agricultural products. The “Red-Yam Duck Leg Roll” uses red yam for marination to preserve the freshness of the ingredients, emphasizing health and wellness. The “Hakka Three-Treasures Braised Pork” employs a cooking method of first braising and then steaming the pork, using the leftover braising sauce to simmer vegetables, resulting in tender and flavorful pork. The “Hakka Soybean Paste Chicken” incorporates the essential soybean paste used by Hakka families, stir-frying the chicken until dry before simmering it in a pot. For dessert, specially made traditional Hakka snacks such as “Hakka-Style Three-Color Cold Cake” and “Hakka Mugwort Daifuku” are included, aiming to convey Taiwanese cultural charm through Hakka cuisine.

▲ %The in-flight meal features generous portions and vibrant presentation. (Photo / Provided by China Airlines)