Top Local Dishes & Where to Try Them in Yan’an Beilu, Xinjiang, China
1. Kashgar Lamb Kebab
Delicious skewered mutton cooked over an open flame, seasoned with cumin, garlic and chili. A must-try in the bustling Id Kah Mosque Square.
- Authentic Flavor: Taste the real flavor of Xinjiang's lamb, marinated in a traditional blend of spices.
- Cultural Atmosphere: Savor the kebab amidst the vibrant and historic Id Kah Mosque Square, where local Uighur culture thrives.
- Street Food Experience: Experience the authentic street food scene of Kashgar while enjoying your lamb kebab.
2. Burza (Paper-Thin Pastry)
A flaky, savory pastry filled with mutton, onions and spices, served with chili sauce. Found in many eateries around the city.
- Unique Texture: Enjoy the crispy exterior and tender, flavorful filling that bursts with each bite.
- Versatile Snack: Perfect for a quick meal or snack while exploring Yan’an Beilu's vibrant streets.
- Spicy Twist: Experience the fiery chili sauce that accompanies this dish, adding an extra kick to every bite.
3. Naan Bread with Dried Fruit
A soft, fluffy flatbread baked in a tandoor oven and served with a variety of fillings like raisins, apricots, and walnuts. Popular at Naan Bakeries.
- Tasty and Nutritious: Enjoy a delicious and nutritious snack made with wholesome ingredients like whole wheat flour, dried fruits, and nuts.
- Local Bakery Experience: Visit local naan bakeries to witness the art of naan-making firsthand and indulge in this tasty treat.
- Sweet and Savory: Experience the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors in each bite of this unique bread.
4. PoluoMian (Hand-Pulled Noodles)
Watch skilled noodle pullers create fresh, thin noodles right before your eyes. Enjoy them in a hearty soup or stir-fried with vegetables.
- Artisanal Craftsmanship: Marvel at the skill and artistry of local noodle pullers as they handcraft each noodle.
- Fresh Ingredients: Taste the freshness and quality of these homemade noodles made from scratch daily.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy hand-pulled noodles in a variety of dishes, catering to your preference for soup or stir-fry.
5. Manti (Xinjiang Dumplings)
Steamed dumplings filled with minced meat and onions, served with a tangy yogurt sauce. Best enjoyed at local restaurants.
- Tender Texture: Savor the tender, delicate texture of these flavorful dumplings.
- Local Taste: Experience authentic Xinjiang cuisine with a dish that is beloved by locals and visitors alike.
- Yogurt Dip: Dip these dumplings in a cool, tangy yogurt sauce for the perfect balance of flavors.
6. Yangrou Paomo (Bread Soup with Mutton)
A hearty soup made by soaking torn pieces of naan bread in a rich mutton broth. Topped with chopped mutton and served with chili oil.
- Comfort Food: Warm up on a cold day with this comforting, filling dish.
- Local Bread: Experience the versatility of naan bread, used to make a delicious soup in Yangrou Paomo.
- Spicy Twist: Add a dash of chili oil for an extra kick and customize the spiciness to your liking.
7. Roujiamo (Xinjiang's Famous Sandwich)
A savory sandwich filled with tender, slow-cooked lamb and seasonings, served in a steamed bun. Found at street food vendors.
- Flavorful Filling: Savor the mouthwatering combination of tender lamb and aromatic seasonings.
- Portable Meal: Enjoy a convenient, handheld meal while exploring Yan’an Beilu's streets.
- Street Food Experience: Experience the vibrant street food scene of Xinjiang by trying this iconic sandwich.
8. Jinghong Yogurt (Milk Tea with Yogurt)
Cool down with a refreshing drink made from fresh milk, yogurt and tea. Found in many tea houses around the city.
- Refreshing Drink: Quench your thirst on a hot day with this refreshing, creamy beverage.
- Local Delicacy: Taste a traditional Xinjiang drink that is cherished by both locals and visitors.
- Versatile Tea House Experience: Relax in a tea house while enjoying this unique, refreshing beverage.
9. Kashgar Pomegranate Seeds
Fresh, juicy pomegranate seeds served in a bowl. A popular snack found at street food vendors and markets.
- Healthy Snack: Enjoy a nutritious and refreshing snack, packed with antioxidants.
- Local Produce: Taste the freshness of locally-grown pomegranates in Yan’an Beilu.
- Street Food Experience: Experience the vibrant street food scene of Xinjiang by enjoying a bowl of fresh pomegranate seeds.
10. Kashgar Fruit and Vegetable Market
Visit one of the largest and most vibrant markets in Central Asia. Browse a wide variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and local specialties.
- Cultural Experience: Immerse yourself in the unique Uighur culture by exploring this bustling market.
- Fresh Produce: Experience the freshness and variety of local produce, from exotic fruits to common vegetables.
- Shopping Opportunity: Pick up unique local ingredients, souvenirs or snacks to take home.
11. Tianying Street Night Market
Explore a lively night market offering a wide variety of food stalls, souvenir shops, and entertainment. A must-visit destination.
- Cultural Experience: Immerse yourself in the vibrant Uighur culture by exploring this bustling night market.
- Food Options: Indulge in a variety of local dishes and street food, all conveniently located in one area.
- Entertainment Opportunity: Enjoy live music performances, magic shows, and other entertainment offerings.
12. Id Kah Mosque
Visit the largest mosque in China, with a capacity of over 20,000 worshippers. A stunning example of Islamic architecture.
- Historical Significance: Marvel at the historical significance and architectural beauty of this centuries-old mosque.
- Cultural Experience: Gain insights into Uighur culture and Islamic traditions by visiting this important religious site.
- Photography Opportunity: Capture stunning photos of the intricate architecture, beautiful courtyards, and bustling square.
13. Apak Hoja Tomb
Visit the magnificent mausoleum of Apak Hoja, a famous Islamic figure in Xinjiang. A beautiful example of Islamic architecture.
- Historical Significance: Learn about the life and legacy of Apak Hoja, an important figure in Uighur history.
- Cultural Experience: Gain insights into Uighur culture and Islamic traditions by visiting this historic site.
- Photography Opportunity: Capture stunning photos of the intricate architecture, beautiful courtyards, and vibrant gardens.
14. Karakul Lake (Ke'erqing Lake)
Visit this stunning alpine lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lush grasslands. A must-see natural attraction.
- Natural Beauty: Marvel at the breathtaking beauty of this alpine lake, surrounded by towering mountains and pristine grasslands.
- Photography Opportunity: Capture stunning photos of the lake, mountains, and surrounding landscapes.
- Relaxation Opportunity: Enjoy a peaceful and relaxing environment away from the bustle of city life.
15. Sunday Bazaar (Shichang) in Kashgar
Experience one of the largest and oldest bazaars in Central Asia, where you can shop for a variety of goods, including textiles, spices, and handicrafts.
- Cultural Experience: Immerse yourself in the vibrant Uighur culture by exploring this bustling bazaar.
- Shopping Opportunity: Pick up unique local goods, souvenirs or bargains to take home.
- Photography Opportunity: Capture stunning photos of the lively atmosphere, colorful textiles, and bustling crowds.