Delicious Specialties of Urumqi

The Unique Features of Urumqi

Urumqi is the biggest city and capital of the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region in Northwest China. It is a melting pot of diverse cultures and has always been an important hub of the ancient Silk Road. The city's geographically remote location enables it to enjoy a unique climate and fertile soil. Thus, Urumqi has plenty of specialties produced locally. These characteristics endow the city's cuisine with unique flavors and dishes.

Popular Food and Favorite Drinks in Urumqi

Urumqi cuisine is well-known for its rich ingredients, spicy flavors, and heavy taste. Some of the most popular dishes are lamb kebabs, roast lamb leg, and naan bread. These dishes are made using traditional Xinjiang seasoning, which includes cumin, chili, and sesame oil. Amongst the drinks native to Urumqi, Xinjiang black beer and deep-fried milk are particularly well-loved. Deep-fried milk is a dessert with a golden crispy exterior and soft milky interior. It is sweet and rich, with a slight hint of sesame oil, making it a popular choice amongst locals and tourists alike.

Unforgettable Snacks to Try in Urumqi

Apart from traditional dishes, Urumqi is also famous for various snacks. The most famous ones are hand-pulled noodles, xiangpi (a kind of cold noodle), and meat-filled steamed buns. These snacks are easily found in bazaars and street stands. Another snack that deserves a special mention is fragrant pear, which is a kind of candied fruit made from fresh pears, sugar, and spices. The pear is thinly sliced, glazed with syrup and baked in an oven. It is ideal for satisfying one's cravings for a light and sweet snack. In conclusion, Urumqi is a city of diversity, where different ethnicities, cultures, and traditions coalesce, making the regional cuisine unique and enticing. A visit to Urumqi to taste its specialties is an unforgettable experience.