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The diverse cuisine of Xinjiang reflects the cultural and historical fusion of this region. When visiting Xinjiang, don’t miss the chance to savor these 9 dishes, known for their captivating flavors and unique preparation methods!
1. Grilled Skewered Meat
Grilled skewered meat is a must-try street food during your Xinjiang trip. This dish captivates not only with its taste but also with its vibrant appearance. The meat is cut into bite-sized pieces, marinated with spices and chili powder, skewered onto bamboo sticks, and grilled. The aroma of the sizzling meat fills the streets, and its eye-catching red hue makes it irresistible to passersby.
2. Cold Noodles (Liangpi)
Liangpi, or cold noodles, are primarily made from wheat or rice flour and served in a rich, flavorful sauce. The name "cold noodles" comes from the chilled rice noodles, which are thinly sliced after preparation. A bowl of Liangpi typically includes sauce, oil, chili, pepper powder, and vinegar, topped with bean sprouts and sliced cucumbers. This unique dish is a perfect choice to enjoy during your Xinjiang travels in the summer.
3. Biang Biang Noodles
Biang Biang noodles boast a unique name. The Chinese character 'Biang' is one of the most complex, consisting of 57 strokes, and mimics the sound of the dough being stretched and slapped during preparation.
Biang Biang noodles are typically served with vinegar, red chili, minced garlic, and hot oil drizzled on top. Despite its simple preparation, the dish's flavor captivates many diners.
4. Steamed Beef with Wheat Flour
Steamed beef with wheat flour is a dish deeply rooted in the Islamic culinary traditions of Xinjiang. What makes it special is the use of 23 herbs, wheat flour, and various spices to create its distinct flavor. The chef carefully seasons and steams the beef for about 7 hours to ensure it becomes tender and aromatic.
To enhance the dish's appeal, it is best enjoyed hot, accompanied by a cup of tea. This helps balance the richness of the beef fat and provides a light, refreshing finish.
5. Bread Crumbs with Lamb Soup
Bread crumbs with lamb soup is considered a culinary symbol of Xinjiang. The main ingredients, lamb and bread, captivate diners from the very first bite. Carefully selected bread is torn into small pieces, while the lamb is seasoned with spices like cumin, chives, star anise, and Chinese prickly ash. The meat is then simmered in water until it absorbs all the flavors. The bread crumbs are poured over the lamb mixture, creating a delightful combination of soft, fragrant bread, sweet garlic, and chili sauce.
6. Sticky Rice Cake with Dates
Sticky rice cake with dates is a popular breakfast dish among locals in Xinjiang. Made from glutinous rice, dates, and red beans, the cake is traditionally cooked in an ancient clay pot called a 'zeng.' This results in a sweet, fragrant cake with a fruity aroma, the chewiness of sticky rice, and the nutty sweetness of red beans. While it may appear overly sweet at first glance, its unique flavor is surprisingly light and enjoyable.
7. Pilaf Rice
Pilaf rice is a staple dish in Central Asia and Xinjiang. Typically made with rice, lamb or beef, carrots, onions, peppers, and spices like pepper, star anise, and salt, all ingredients are simmered together with a generous amount of oil for an extended period. This process creates a rich, aromatic, and flavorful dish.
Pilaf rice is often served with a side of pickled vegetables or sour cucumbers to balance the dish's richness. This popular and enticing meal is a must-try for visitors traveling to Xinjiang.
8. Sour Meat Soup Dumplings
While sour meat soup dumplings can be found across China, it is in Xinjiang where you can experience their unique flavor. These dumplings, filled with lamb, are soaked in a hot, tangy soup. The soup, poured over the dumplings, is the highlight of the dish, featuring sesame seeds, chopped garlic chives, and cilantro, creating a rich and unforgettable taste.
9. Lagman Noodles
Lagman noodles are a famous dish of the Uyghur people. Made from wheat flour, water, salt, and oil, the noodles become chewy, soft, and delicious after boiling. They are typically served with a sauce containing onions, peppers, lamb, cabbage, and spices like pepper and chili powder. This flavorful dish is a must-try when exploring local cuisine.
According to Mytour.vn
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Reference: Travel guide from Mytour.vn
Mytour.vnMay 27, 2024
