Food History of Stone Palace (Tash Khauli), Khiva, Uzbekistan

The Stone Palace, also known as Tash Khauli, built in the 19th century, resides in the heart of Khiva’s ancient town, Ichan Kala. While the palace itself is a testament to Khiva's architectural splendor, the culinary history surrounding Tash Khauli and Khiva is equally rich. Influenced over the centuries by the various cultures along the Silk Road, Khivan cuisine is an exotic blend of Central Asian traditions. It integrates local produce, meats (predominantly lamb, chicken, and fish), and a well-measured blend of spices, reflecting the caravans that once traded here.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Stone Palace (Tash Khauli), Khiva

1. Plov (non-veg) - This is Uzbekistan's national dish, a savory mix of rice, carrots, onions, and chunks of lamb, spiced with cumin and other seasonings. Each region - including Khiva - has its own variation.
2. Shurpa (non-veg) - A hearty soup made with chunks of lamb and a rich assortment of vegetables, offering a warming experience particularly comforting during cooler weather.
3. Samsa (non-veg) - Baked pastry filled with minced meat (lamb or chicken), onions, and spices. It is similar to Indian samosas and a popular street food item in Khiva.
4. Mastava (non-veg) - A traditional rice soup made with lamb, rice, and vegetables, seasoned with fresh herbs for a light but satisfying dish.
5. Lagman (non-veg) - This noodle soup, influenced by Chinese cuisine, includes lamb or beef, vegetables, and hand-pulled noodles, all in a spiced broth.
6. Dimlama (non-veg) - A one-pot stew with chunks of meat, potatoes, onions, carrots, bell peppers, and a mix of other vegetables, all steamed together.
7. Chuchvara (non-veg) - These are dumplings similar to ravioli, filled with minced meat and served either in soup or fried with a side of sour cream or tomato sauce.
8. Norin (non-veg) - A dish made mainly during the winter months consisting of homemade noodles and horse meat, though beef can be used as an alternative.
9. Yogurt Soup (veg) - A refreshing cold soup made with yogurt, cucumbers, radish, and herbs – perfect for hot summer days.
10. Vegetable Kabobs (veg) - Grilled skewers of marinated vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and zucchini, commonly found in local markets.

Top Famous Restaurants in Stone Palace (Tash Khauli), Khiva, with Famous Food

1. Restaurant Terrassa
   Address: Ichan-Kala, Tosh-Hovli Palace, Khiva
   Famous Food: Lagman (non-veg)
2. Khorezm Art Restaurant
   Address: Pakhlavon Makhmud Street, Ichan-Kala, Khiva
   Famous Food: Plov (non-veg)
3. Rahimxon Tea House
   Address: Polvon Qori Street, near the East Gate, Khiva
   Famous Food: Mastava (non-veg)
4. Zarafshon Chaikhana
   Address: Allakuli Khan Street, Ichan-Kala, Khiva
   Famous Food: Samsa (non-veg)
5. Restaurant Barakacha
   Address: Dishan Qala Street, Next to the North Gate, Khiva
   Famous Food: Chuchvara (non-veg)

Please note that restaurant offerings can change, and it is advisable to confirm with the establishment for the latest menu and vegetarian options. Additionally, while some of the restaurants mentioned may be situated near Tash Khauli within the confines of Ichan-Kala, there may not be eateries located inside the historical palace itself.