Xiping Hakka Big Rice Balls

Review

Xiping Hakka Big Rice Balls is on Section 1 of Xinglong Road in Toufen, some way from the city centre among fields and homes. The 'big ban yuan' in its name is the Hakka term for large glutinous rice balls, a common savoury snack in Miaoli's Hakka villages. Despite the remote location, Supertaste includes it in both its Toufen food list and its Miaoli Hakka roundup, noting crowds and queues even though the dining room is spacious.

The signature Hakka rice balls are large, with soft, chewy skins wrapped around pork filling, served in a broth loaded with garlic chives and fried shallots. Bloggers describe the soup as sweet and savoury with a strong shallot aroma. Other regular orders include Hakka stir-fried flat noodles and pan-fried turnip cake, plus assorted stir-fries and Hakka dishes that work as a full meal or for sharing.

Diners praise the springy rice balls, fragrant shallots and old-fashioned broth, calling it a true local taste, and there is parking out front. Critics feel prices are a bit high for snack food and that cleanliness could improve; the decor is plain, and waits at peak times can be long.

Hours are roughly 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 5 to 7 p.m., closed between lunch and dinner and on Mondays; weekend closing times differ slightly, so follow the shop's notices. With such short service windows, arriving at opening time helps avoid queues or sold-out items. Driving is easiest, as public transport is inconvenient.

Best for anyone keen on genuine Hakka rice snacks who does not mind a short drive. First-timers should start with a bowl of Hakka big rice balls, then add stir-fried flat noodles and pan-fried turnip cake; groups can order one or two Hakka stir-fries to make a complete meal.