Food History of Muslim Quarter, Xi'an, China
The Muslim Quarter in Xi'an is not only a historical site but also a culinary haven that dates back over 1,000 years. This area is the hub of the Chinese Muslim community in Xi'an, home of the Hui people who are known for their halal cuisine that blends Chinese cooking with Islamic dietary laws. The Silk Road once ran through Xi'an, which made the city a melting pot of cultures, spices, and flavors from all over the world including various parts of the Muslim world, and this history is reflected in the rich and diverse food available in the Muslim Quarter today.
Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Muslim Quarter, Xi'an
- Roujiamo - Non-Veg: Often referred to as a Chinese hamburger, this dish consists of marinated meat (usually lamb or beef, but pork is also common in non-Muslim areas) stuffed inside a crispy baked bun.
- Yangrou Paomo - Non-Veg: A comforting soup made with pita bread soaked in lamb broth, served with tender pieces of lamb meat.
- Liángpí - Veg: These are cold, spicy noodles mixed with vinegar, garlic, and chili oil, a refreshing dish especially in the summer heat.
- Biang Biang Noodles - Veg: Known for their wide and thick shape, these belt-like noodles are served with a variety of toppings, including chili, garlic, and vinegar.
- Xi'an Dumplings - Veg/Non-Veg: Dumplings are a staple in the area, but Xi'an dumplings come in a variety of unique fillings and shapes, including vegetarian options.
- Hu La Tang - Non-Veg: A spicy and hearty beef soup that contains a variety of ingredients such as bean jelly, vermicelli, and vegetables.
- Qishan Sàozi Noodle - Non-Veg: A noodle soup that's tangy and spicy with diced vegetables, usually with pork, but beef versions are available in Muslim Quarter.
- Zeng Gao - Veg: A sweet and sticky rice cake, often infused with dates or other sweet flavors.
- Fried Rice with Pickled Chinese Cabbage and Chili - Veg: A spicy twist on traditional fried rice which includes pickled cabbage for an extra zing.
- Mutton Shashlik - Non-Veg: Skewers of cumin-seasoned, roasted mutton are ubiquitous in the Muslim Quarter and are loved for their smoky flavor.
Top Restaurants in Muslim Quarter, Xi'an
- Fan's Noodles
88 Bei Yuan Men Muslim Market
Famous for their Biáng Biáng Noodles - Veg.
- De Fa Chang
28 Pingan Market, Bell Tower Square
Renowned for their Xi'an Dumplings - Veg/Non-Veg.
- Lao Sunjia
78 Bei Yuan Men
Known for Yangrou Paomo - Non-Veg, a traditional lamb soup bread dish.
- Jia San Soup Dumpling Restaurant
93 Bei Yuan Men
Famous for its various flavorful Guantang Baozi, steamed soup-filled buns - Non-Veg.
- Lao Mi Jia Liang Fen
Beiyuan Gate, North Street
Famous for their refreshing Liang Fen (Cold Silken Noodles) - Veg.