Xi’an’s Muslim Quarter (Huimin Street) is a lively and bustling area where you can experience the rich flavors of local cuisine with deep roots in the Muslim community. This street is not just a culinary hotspot but also a cultural treasure, where you can taste traditional dishes that reflect Xi’an’s diverse history, dating back to the time when it was a major stop on the Silk Road.

Here are some of the must-try dishes that make Huimin Street famous:

1. Roujiamo (肉夹馍) – Chinese “Hamburger”

Often referred to as a Chinese hamburger, Roujiamo is one of the most iconic foods in Xi’an. It consists of tender, slow-cooked meat, usually pork or lamb, served in a soft, fluffy flatbread. The meat is seasoned with a variety of spices, making it incredibly flavorful. It’s a quick and delicious snack that locals love, and it’s a great introduction to Xi’an street food.

2. Yangrou Paomo (羊肉泡馍) – Lamb Soup with Flatbread

This hearty dish is a traditional Xi’an comfort food, especially popular during colder months. Yangrou Paomo consists of tender lamb meat served in a rich, flavorful broth. The key part of the dish is the mo, a type of flatbread that is torn into pieces and soaked in the soup. The bread absorbs the flavors of the lamb and broth, making it a warm, filling meal. Often, diners can adjust the spiciness to their taste with the addition of chili paste and other seasonings.

3. Biangbiang Noodles (油泼面)

One of the most famous noodle dishes in Xi’an, Biangbiang noodles are wide, chewy noodles served with a variety of toppings, including spicy chili oil, garlic, and vegetables. What makes these noodles unique is the character biang, one of the most complex Chinese characters, which is sometimes even considered the most complicated Chinese character. The noodles are traditionally handmade and boiled, served with a sauce that’s both spicy and savory.

4. Shaanxi-style Kebabs (肉串)

Xi’an is famous for its kebabs, which are often made with lamb or beef, marinated in a blend of cumin, chili powder, and other spices, then grilled to perfection. These skewers are a popular street food in the Muslim Quarter, where you can watch the chefs grilling the meat right in front of you. The smoky, spicy flavor of these kebabs is a true taste of Xi’an’s local food culture.

5. Qishan Noodles (岐山臊子面)

Another noodle dish from the Shaanxi region, Qishan Noodles are served in a rich, slightly sour soup made from vinegar and garlic, with a mix of vegetables and meat, often lamb or beef. This dish has a unique balance of flavors, with the vinegar and spices adding an interesting tang to the otherwise savory soup.

6. Pita Bread with Lamb Soup (羊肉泡馍)

This is one of the most traditional and beloved dishes in Xi’an. Pita Bread with Lamb Soup is made by tearing pieces of thick pita bread and soaking them in a hot, flavorful lamb broth. The bread absorbs the rich, meaty flavors, and you can add chili and garlic paste to adjust the spice level. This is a must-try dish for anyone visiting the Muslim Quarter.

7. Fruit Tea (酸梅汤)

To complement the spicy and hearty foods, many visitors enjoy a refreshing cup of Suān Méi Tāng (酸梅汤), a sweet and sour plum tea. This drink is made from dried plums, sugar, and a hint of herbal flavor, providing a refreshing contrast to the richness of the food. It’s often served cold and is perfect for quenching your thirst on a warm Xi’an day.

8. Sweet and Savory Steamed Dumplings (小吃包子)

Xi’an’s Muslim Quarter is also known for its delicious baozi, which are steamed buns filled with various fillings, including pork, lamb, and vegetables. These buns are soft and pillowy, and are often enjoyed as a quick snack or breakfast. They can be savory or sweet, depending on the filling, and are often served with chili sauce.

9. Yangmei (杨梅) – Chinese Bayberry

For a refreshing and slightly tangy treat, you can try Yangmei, a local Chinese bayberry fruit, which is sweet and sour in taste. This fruit is sold in markets along the street and is often eaten as a snack after a savory meal. It’s a favorite local fruit and gives you a refreshing contrast to the heavier, spiced dishes.