Table of Contents
Discovering the Tastiest Eats in Xi’an
Introduction
Xi’an, the ancient capital of China, is known for its culture, history, and of course, its delicious cuisine. With a long and rich history of gastronomy, it’s no surprise that Xi’an is home to some of the most tantalizing dishes in the country. From regional specialties such as biangbiang noodles and roujiamo (a type of Chinese hamburger) to more modern fare such as hot pot and barbeque, Xi’an offers a wide variety of delicious eats that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Here’s a look at some of the best dishes the city has to offer.
Biangbiang Noodles
Biangbiang noodles are a regional specialty in Xi’an. This thick, chewy noodle dish is made with wheat flour, salt, and water and is usually served with a variety of vegetables, meats, and sauces. The noodles themselves are particularly unique due to their width and length, which can reach up to two feet long. What really makes these noodles stand out is the flavorsome sauce that accompanies them. The sauce is usually a combination of chili oil, garlic, soy sauce, and other spices, giving the noodles a spicy kick.
Roujiamo
Roujiamo, sometimes referred to as a Chinese hamburger, is another regional specialty in Xi’an. This savory sandwich consists of a flatbread pocket filled with a variety of meats, such as pork, beef, and lamb, as well as vegetables. The bread is usually freshly baked and the filling is seasoned with a combination of spices and sauces to give it an extra kick. The result is an incredibly flavorful and filling sandwich that is sure to satisfy your hunger.
Hot Pot
Hot pot is a popular dish in Xi’an and all around China. This dish consists of a simmering pot of broth that is filled with a variety of meats, vegetables, and noodles. Hot pot is a communal dish, meaning that it is meant to be shared among a group of people. Each person can customize their own bowl of hot pot by adding in whatever ingredients they like. The broth is usually made with a combination of spices and sauces, giving it a depth of flavor that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Barbecue
Barbecue is a common sight in Xi’an, and for good reason. The city is home to some of the best barbecued meats in the country. The meats are usually seasoned with a variety of spices and sauces, giving them a unique flavor that is sure to please. The meats are usually cooked over an open flame, giving them a smoky flavor that is hard to resist. Whether you’re looking for beef, pork, or chicken, you’re sure to find something that will satisfy your cravings.
Goubuli Baozi
Goubuli baozi is a type of steamed bun that is native to Xi’an. This savory bun is filled with a variety of fillings, such as pork, beef, and vegetables. The buns are usually steamed, giving them a light and fluffy texture. The filling is usually seasoned with a variety of spices and sauces, giving it a unique flavor that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Liangpi
Liangpi is a type of cold noodle dish that is native to Xi’an. This dish consists of wheat noodles that are served cold with a variety of sauces and seasonings. The noodles are usually topped with a variety of vegetables, meats, and sauces, giving them a unique flavor that is sure to please. This dish is particularly refreshing in the summer months, making it a great option for those who are looking to beat the heat.
Mianwo
Mianwo is a type of steamed dumpling native to Xi’an. This savory dumpling is filled with a variety of meats, vegetables, and spices. The filling is wrapped in a thin dough and then steamed, giving it a light and fluffy texture. The dumplings are usually served with a variety of sauces and seasonings, giving them a unique flavor that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Dapanji
Dapanji is a type of stewed chicken dish that is native to Xi’an. This dish consists of chicken that is cooked in a variety of spices and sauces. The chicken is usually served with a variety of vegetables and noodles, giving it a unique flavor that is sure to satisfy your cravings. This dish is particularly popular in the colder months of the year, making it a great option for those who are looking for a hearty and warming meal.
Xiaolongbao
Xiaolongbao is a type of steamed dumpling native to Xi’an. This savory dumpling is filled with a variety of meats, vegetables, and spices. The dumplings are wrapped in a thin dough and then steamed, giving it a light and fluffy texture. The dumplings are usually served with a variety of sauces and seasonings, giving them a unique flavor that is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Bing
Bing, sometimes referred to as Chinese pancakes, are a popular street food in Xi’an. These thin pancakes are usually filled with a variety of meats, vegetables, and sauces, giving them a unique flavor that is sure to please. The pancakes are usually served with a variety of sauces and seasonings, giving them an extra kick. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a full meal, bing is sure to hit the spot.
Jianbing
Jianbing is a type of savory crepe that is native to Xi’an. This thin crepe is made with mung bean flour and is usually filled with a variety of meats, vegetables, and sauces. The crepe is then topped with a variety of seasonings and sauces, giving it a unique flavor that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a full meal, jianbing is sure to hit the spot.
Summary
Xi’an is home to some of the tastiest eats in the country. From regional specialties such as biangbiang noodles and roujiamo to more modern fare such as hot pot and barbecue, there is something to satisfy everyone’s cravings. For those looking for something out of the ordinary, there are also a variety of unique dishes such as goubuli baozi, liangpi, mianwo, dapanji, bing, and jianbing. No matter what your tastes are, you’re sure to find something delicious in Xi’an.