Lin Yuan Da Li Rou Yuan Introduction
Lin Yuan's Large Meatballs, now run by the second generation, is a must-visit food establishment for worshippers at the Cihui Temple in Banqiao and discerning food lovers alike. The small shop is often packed with customers who come specifically for the particularly large and delicious meatballs. Lin Yuan is named after the first-generation owner, who made the meatballs extra large to ensure customers feel full after just one. The filling is made from chilled pork hind leg, marinated and mixed with quail eggs, shiitake mushrooms, and shredded bamboo shoots, then wrapped in a thin meatball skin. The highlight of the meatball is its outer skin, made from hand-kneaded traditional rice flour and sweet potato starch. Each morning, the meatballs are steamed, then fried in oil when customers place their orders, enhanced with a flavorful garlic sauce that makes them even more delicious. Besides meatballs, the restaurant also serves a traditional shuizhong fish ball soup, featuring a southern-style broth and fish balls that pair perfectly with the meatballs. Lin Yuan's large meatballs are crafted from traditional rice and sweet potato flour, first steamed and then fried, with a substantial filling that attracts many food lovers from Taipei, who often take the MRT specifically to enjoy them.
