Xi’an, often celebrated as the “Carb Capital” of China, offers a rich tapestry of flavors and dishes that reflect its historic past and vibrant present. As the ancient eastern terminus of the Silk Road and the capital for 13 dynasties, Xi’an’s food scene is not only a fascinating mix of traditional and modern but also a testament to its rich culinary heritage. Consequently, from savory noodles to unique street snacks, this city is undeniably a haven for food lovers. Let’s dive into the world of Xi’an food and discover the must-try dishes during your travel.
Iconic Xi’an Dishes
Biangbiang Noodles (Biangbiang面)
Type: Noodles, Vegetables and Meat
Price: About CNY 18
Best at: 魏家凉皮
Biangbiang noodles are renowned for their thick, hand-stretched texture and savory meat broth. Moreover, their name is derived from the sound made during their preparation. As a result, these noodles have become a favorite in Xi’an, celebrated for their chewy consistency and robust flavor.
Flatbread in Mutton Soup (羊肉泡馍)
Type: Halal Food, Meat Soup with Bread
Price: About CNY 28
Best at: Laomi’s Paomo Restaurant (Xiyangshi)
Flatbread in mutton soup, or Paomo, is a quintessential Xi’an dish. Initially, this comforting meal begins with crumbled pita bread soaked in a rich, flavorful mutton broth. Subsequently, it’s topped with tender mutton slices and served with pickled garlic. Consequently, perfect for colder days, this dish provides a hearty introduction to Xi’an food.
Cold Noodles (凉皮)
Type: Rice Noodles, Vegetarian Friendly
Price: About CNY 15
Best at: Master Wei Cold Noodles
Cold noodles, or Liangpi, offer a refreshing option with their steamed starchy base, crisp cucumber, bean sprouts, and spicy chili oil. For a milder taste, try the sesame sauce variant. These noodles add both flavor and color to Xi’an’s food scene.
Xi’an Meat Burger (肉夹馍)
Type: Snack, Meat, Burger, Street Food
Price: About CNY 15
Best at: Fan’s Roujiamo Restaurant (Zhubashi)
Often called the Chinese hamburger, the Xi’an meat burger features flat, leavened bread stuffed with juicy shredded beef, lamb, or stewed pork. Additionally, the crispy exterior and flavorful filling make this street food a popular choice for both locals and travelers alike. Consequently, it’s a must-try when exploring Xi’an’s vibrant food scene.
Pepper Beef Ball Soup (胡辣汤)
Type: Soup, Meat and Vegetable
Price: About CNY 10
Best at: LaoLiu’s Hulatang Restaurant
Hulatang, a spicy and thick soup, is a Hui specialty. Notably, it is infused with Sichuan peppercorns, which offer a numbing, spicy kick. Additionally, it is often enjoyed alongside a meat burger, making it a favorite breakfast choice in Xi’an.
Lamb Kebab (烤串儿)
Type: Meat, Halal Food
Price: About CNY 10
Where to find it: Muslim Quarter, Yong Xingfang Night Market
Xi’an’s lamb kebabs come in two varieties: small mutton pieces grilled on iron skewers or larger chunks coated in chili pepper and cumin. Both are flavorful and make for a great group dish.
Sticky Rice Cake (桂花糕, 镜糕)
Type: Snack, Vegetarian Friendly, Sticky Rice
Price: About CNY 5
Where to find it: Muslim Quarter, Yong Xingfang Night Market
Xi’an offers two types of sticky rice cakes: Guihuagao, a yellow cake topped with dried dates, and mirror cake, which is colorful and often decorated with cartoon figures. What’s more, both options are delightful treats, known for their chewy texture.
Persimmon Doughnut (柿子饼)
Type: Dessert, Flour, Raisin
Best at: Yiguzhai Huanggui Persimmon Cake Shop
Persimmon doughnuts, made from dried persimmon and unleavened dough, are deep-fried for a chewy, sour-sweet flavor. They are a unique and popular treat in Xi’an.
Finding Authentic Xi’an Food Experiences
Exploring Street Markets and Night Markets
Xi’an’s street markets offer an exciting way to dive into local cuisine. The Muslim Quarter is particularly renowned for its halal snacks, including lamb skewers and other street food delights. For a broader selection of traditional Xi’an flavors, visit the Yongxingfang Area.
Recommended Food Street:
- Beiyuanmen Night Market: Bell-Drum Tower Square, Lianhu District, Xi’an
- Eastern Street Night Market: Eastern Street in the middle of Jiefang Road, Xi’an
- Nanshaomen Night Market: Outside the South Gate in Yanta District, Xi’an
- Boshulin Night Market: Near Forest of Steles Museum, Duanlvmen, Xi’an
Food Travel Tips
Learn a Few Xi’an Phrases
Enhance your dining experience by picking up a few local phrases. For example, you can ask, “Is this dish spicy?” (这道菜辣不辣？) or say, “I’d like less salt, please” (少盐). These simple phrases can make your interactions smoother.
Be Mindful of Food Hygiene
While enjoying Xi’an’s street food, choose stalls and restaurants that maintain good hygiene standards. Ensuring food safety and hygiene is crucial for a pleasant eating experience.
Xi’an is a treasure trove of culinary delights, from its famed noodle dishes to unique street snacks. With this guide, you’re all set to explore and savor the authentic flavors of Xi’an. Enjoy your culinary adventure with China Explorer Tour, where every meal is a journey into the heart of Chinese food culture! To learn more about Chinese food, check out Discovering the True Diversity of Chinese Food – China Explorer Tour
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