Traditional snacks are making a comeback in a big way—colorful “rainbow sweet potato balls” have become the night market’s top favorite.

▲ A rainbow of colorful sweet potato balls.

Reported and photographed by reporter Yu Jiayun / Banqiao

Yellow and purple sweet potato balls are no longer unique—colorful ones are the real eye-catchers. Located at Banqiao NS Ya Night Market, the “Runaway Rainbow Sweet Potato Balls” stand out from ordinary vendors who sprinkle on seasonings afterward. Instead, they mix ingredients like plum, chocolate, and matcha directly into the dough during preparation, giving the sweet potato balls vibrant colors that are simply mouthwatering. Even on rainy nights, the small stall draws long lines, making it the latest viral snack in the night market.

▲ Long lines even on rainy days.

The owner of Runaway Sweet Potato Balls shared that she previously operated a stall in Tucheng, where she had already gained some local fame. This is her first time entering a night market, and she plans to set up shop regularly at NS Ya. Since most sweet potato balls on the market come in the plain yellow color, her multicolored creations have become a highlight in the night market. Even on rainy days, the lines don’t thin out—the owner herself was surprised, saying, “I didn’t expect so many people to love sweet potato balls!”

▲ Sweet potato balls sell out within three minutes of being scooped out.

The owner explained that the colors come from mixing seasonings directly into the dough instead of sprinkling them on afterward. The darker ones are chocolate-flavored, the green ones are matcha, and the pink ones are plum powder. A previously offered seaweed flavor was discontinued due to average feedback and unappealing fried color. However, purple sweet potato and a new coconut flavor are in development and will be introduced depending on the situation.

▲ Colorful sweet potato balls look incredibly appetizing in the frying oil.

Unlike regular sweet potato balls that are often hollow inside, Runaway’s are plump, firm, and delightfully chewy—a result of the owner constantly stirring and pressing them during frying. Each batch takes about 10 minutes to prepare. The added seasonings bring diverse flavors, adding an extra layer of enjoyment with every bite. This traditional Taiwanese snack has made a triumphant return, sweeping through the night markets.

▲ Freshly fried sweet potato balls taste best when hot.

▲ Rainbow sweet potato balls, plump and round.

Runaway Rainbow Sweet Potato Balls (NS Ya Branch)
Location: In front of Victory Department Store, Banqiao NS Ya Night Market
Business hours: Monday to Thursday (one random day off per week), Friday to Sunday 18:00–00:30