From the ancient capital of Xi’an to the western front city of Xinjiang, northwestern China offers travelers a food journey rich in both history and diversity. In this article, we will introduce you to some of the most favored foods in both destinations. Don’t forget to satisfy your taste buds with these foods on your future China tours.

Xi’an: Where History Meets the Plate

Hand-Pulled Biang Biang Noodles

Thick and chewy, Biang Biang noodles are a Xi’an staple food. Its name “BiangBiang” is sourced from the sound of dough slapping against board. A must-try on Xian tours, the noodles are often paired with chili oil, garlic, and vegetables, with pork or a fried egg on the top. Its chewy texture and spicy flavors make it a favorite among locals and travelers all over the world.

Savory Roujiamo (Chinese Burger)

While westerners have “hamburger”, Chinese also have their own “ han burger”, an old snack popular in Xi’an. Dubbed the “Chinese hamburger,” Rou Jia Mo features tender cooked pork, which is stuffed into a crispy bread called ‘’mo’’. After simmering for hours with cinnamon and star anise, the meat melts into the bread’s flaky layers. Often paired with a bowl of liangpi (cold skin noodles), Rou Jia Mo will set you off for a day’s work.

Sweet Persimmon Cake

After enjoying the “heat” food, it’s time make your tongue “cool down”. Try sweet persimmon cake, a golden dessert made from local Hu County persimmons. A bit sticky and chewy, this cake is sweet in a delightful way. Besides, the walnut on the top add crispy taste to it. What a good finale to a day’s meal!

Xinjiang: A Melting Pot of Central Asian Flavors

Fragrant Lamb Kebabs

No Xinjiang tours are complete without smoky lamb skewers. Grilled over charcoal. It is soaked with chili, cumin, and salt. A cornerstone of Xinjiang tours, a tender bite of it can show you how skillful the Uyghur people is in open-fire cooking.

Heavenly Pilaf (Polo): A Feast of Silk Road Heritage

With lamb fat, carrots, and grains, this dish is inspired by Uzbek but becomes a symbol for Xinjiang cuisine. As a traditional food, it is often served at celebrations, such as weddings, festivals, and family gatherings. Historically, it fueled traders along the Silk Road, that’s why it earns the nickname “the food of caravans.” Today, it’s a must-try for travelers on Xinjiang tours.

Nang Bread: The Ultimate Travel Companion

Nang Bread is a typical kind of Uyghur food. It is a sesame-studded flatbread baked in tandoor ovens. Because it can last for several days and is easy to bring with, Nang becomes an ideal food for traders walking across Xinjiang’s vast deserts. For better travelling experiences, you can visit local bakeries or night markets, where bakers make the bread in traditional tandoors.

Cross-Regional Delicacies

Both Xi’an and Xinjiang share a love for yogurt drinks and pomegranate juices. You can try “Liangpi” cold noodles in Xi’an, and you can’t miss “Dapanji” (spicy chicken stew) in Xinjiang. Whether you’re planning to visit Xi’an or Xinjiang, you can immerse into the history transformation and cultural exchange by trying these flavors.

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