Tried tarot balls dessert in Beijing. as good as Taiwan Jiufen.
🍡Taro ball 芋圓 is a traditional Taiwanese cuisine dessert made of taro. It can be found in almost every part of Taiwan and other parts of the world selling Taiwanese desserts.
🍧The taro balls can be made by mixing mashed taro with water and sweet potato flour or potato flour, making the taro balls more springy or softer respectively.
The colour of mashed taro makes the dessert appear crystal purple or grey.
The mashed taro can be replaced by mashed sweet potato or ground mung bean and becomes the yellow sweet potato ball (地瓜圓) or the green mung bean ball.
The dessert can be served with syrup either icy or hot.
When I first tried taro ball dessert in Beijing, I was pleasantly surprised by how authentic and flavorful it tasted, especially compared to what I had enjoyed in Jiufen, Taiwan. The texture of the taro balls struck a perfect balance—springy yet soft—thanks to the careful mixing of mashed taro with sweet potato or potato flour. In some variations, they even use mung bean, which gives a nice green hue and a subtly different flavor that adds variety to the dessert experience. One aspect that elevated the taro ball dessert in Beijing was the choice of syrup—some shops offer it icy cold, ideal for beating the summer heat, while others serve it warm, which becomes a comforting treat in colder months. This versatility makes it a dessert for every season. The natural purple or grey tint from the taro is visually appealing and hints at the rich, earthy taste you get with every bite. It’s fascinating to see how this Taiwanese classic dessert has been embraced and lovingly recreated in Beijing, allowing people who can’t travel to Taiwan to still enjoy an authentic taste. Besides the great flavors and textures, the atmosphere in the dessert shops often mimics those in Taiwan, adding to the overall experience. Many shops also offer take-away options, so you can share this delicious treat with friends and family. If you’re a dessert lover visiting Beijing, I highly recommend seeking out a taro ball dessert stand or shop—it's a delightful culinary discovery that bridges cultures and satisfies sweet cravings alike.