Khujand, one of the oldest cities in Central Asia and the second-largest city in Tajikistan, has a rich and diverse culinary history influenced by various cultures and ethnic groups that have settled in the region over the centuries. The city's location on the Silk Road has made it a melting pot of flavors and culinary techniques. Tajik cuisine, notably in Khujand, primarily relies on locally sourced ingredients, like grains, legumes, fruits, and herbs, reflecting the agricultural bounty of the fertile Fergana Valley. While meat dishes are prevalent, there are also numerous vegetarian dishes that form part of the local diet, often flavored with a distinctive blend of spices and herbs.