Outside Tang Cheng Goose’s shop hangs a stop-and-look sign that reads “Beware of Goslings”—adorable! The humor shows how a traditional trade can stay vibrant by speaking the language of a younger generation. This goose-farming family from Dalin is now in its third generation; the grandchildren vowed to carry Grandpa’s business forward and create an entirely new goose brand and specialty store. The older sibling handles marketing and operations, the younger one develops goose-meat products, and together they run a “non-traditional goose shop.” In 2020 their goose-rice was crowned “No. 1 in Taiwan” by the National Goose Association, overturning the stereotype that Chiayi only does turkey rice. Turns out premium goose dishes are also a Chiayi pride.
The secret behind Tang Cheng’s champion goose rice is its healthy, aromatic “scallion-infused golden goose oil.” Goose fat boasts the highest proportion of unsaturated fatty acids among animal fats, helps lower blood cholesterol, and is nicknamed “the olive oil of animal oils.” With a very low melting point, it stays liquid above 16 °C, making it one of the most body-friendly cooking fats. Alongside the golden goose oil, the “chewy-yet-tender iron goose eggs”—usually sold out—are the insider favorite whispered about among foodies.
No. 228, Chengren St., East Dist., Chiayi City
0953 650 350
11:00–19:00, closed Tuesdays
https://www.facebook.com/townchengoosestore/
