An Introduction to Street Food Culture
Street Food is the type of food that is to be eaten casually and in many countries, their defintions definitely differ. In some parts of East Asia, it's engrained as its own culture and reflects these countries' lifestyles. So here are 5 countries that have emit these lifestyles, and its surrounding the norm of Street Foods and how they differ from each other or may even share some similarities!
Street Food in Vietnam
The Most Common streetfood that you'll see in Vietnam (and that's super well known in the states) is Pho and Banh mi, since quite a few varieties can be eaten throughout any time of day! Even some Vietnam folks will drink their coffees from morning to evening. But did you know in Vietnam, a common streetfood delicacy is Sea Snails? And that they are almost just as popular as Banh Mi and Pho?
Street Food in South Korea
In the beginning, Street Food was traditionally only seen at markets or mainly on crowded streets. Now, there are dedicated street areas for these attractions. Specifically in Busan, Kkangtong Markte was the first permanent night market in South Korea, with many exotic street foods such as fusion cusine of kimichi and Japanese Pork. Common street in South Korea would be mainly consisting of tteobokki, dakganjeong, hotteok, fish cake, and many more - very popular in the Hongdae area.
Street Food in Japan
The kind of Street Foods that you'd see in Japan would be commonly found around the Local Markets, such as Nishiki and Kuromon markets. Having a large selection of fresh and grilled seafood. Some food stalls are mainly sitting while eating rather than moving around with food in your hand, most commonly seen in other countries.
Street Food in Taiwan
Taiwan Cusine specifically is heard to be famous for its street snacks. Similar to many east-asian street food, it is commonly seen around the night markets or dedicated stalls throughout the country. This includes popular and well-known dishes such as Stinky Tofu, Beef Noodle Soup, and Taiwanese Fried Chicken.
Street Food in Thailand
Thailand street food culture was influenced by both internal and external factors - such as chinese immigrants, and with how Thailand's way of life revolved around their agriculture and food production. Many street food items that are popular are mainly noodle dishes, such as pad thai, rad na, flat noodles with beef and more. There are also snacks commonly seen, like coconut cassava cake and different flavored jellies.
