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Come explore Xi'an with me through food, via tuktuk!
Xi'an is a city rich in history, but it's also a culinary paradise. My recent evening food tour with LostPlate took me on an unforgettable journey through the city's vibrant food scene, all from the comfort of a tuktuk. Here's a taste of what you can expect from this delectable adventure!
Stop 1: Biang Biang Noodles
Our first stop introduced us to one of Xi'an's most iconic dishes: Biang Biang noodles. These hand-pulled noodles are famous for their thick, chewy texture and the unique sound they make as they're slapped against the counter during preparation. Served with a savory sauce and a generous topping of vegetables and chili, the noodles were an explosion of flavors. Our guide, Buren is a Xi'an native and he gave us some inside information: eat your noodles with a chunk of raw garlic in one mouthful; it was the perfect, most authentic way to kick off our food tour!
Stop 2: BBQ Skewers
Next up, we ventured into the bustling streets of the Muslim Quarter to savor some beef and lamb BBQ skewers. Grilled to perfection over an open flame, these skewers were seasoned with a mouthwatering blend of spices that had us all reaching for more. The combination of tender beef and smoky, charred edges made for an irresistible treat. The lively atmosphere of the market added to the experience, making it a memorable stop on our tour.
Stop 3: Soup Dumplings and 8 Treasure Porridge
Our third stop brought us to a popular eatery where we indulged in Xi'an soup dumplings (which reminded me of Shanghai's XiaoLongBao) and 8 treasure porridge. The soup dumplings were little pockets of joy, filled with broth and tender meat. Each bite was a burst of flavor, and the delicate dumpling skin held everything together perfectly. The 8 treasure porridge is a sweet and nutritious dessert made with a mix of eight ingredients that provide a delightful contrast to the savory dumplings. It was a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that left us feeling satisfied and content.
Stop 4: Gourd Chicken
Our fourth stop featured a unique and traditional dish: gourd chicken. This dish, slow-cooked for 5 hours, was incredibly tender, flavorful, and a tour favorite! The chicken is then deep-fried and the result is a dish that's both comforting and special, with a depth of flavor that's hard to find elsewhere. It was a true highlight of the tour and a testament to the culinary heritage of Xi'an.
Stop 5: Craft Beer
To cap off our culinary adventure, we visited a fun craft brewery overlooking the city wall. Here, we sampled a flight of beers and picked our favorite so we could enjoy a proper pint! I loved the raspberry cider and it was the perfect way to unwind after an evening of feasting. The crisp, fruity notes of the cider were a great complement to the hearty dishes we had enjoyed earlier. As we sipped our drinks and took in the stunning views and buzzing vibe of the night, it was clear that this food tour was not just about eating, but also about experiencing the culture and ambiance of Xi'an.
If you're planning a trip to Xi'an, make sure to include this evening food tour with LostPlate on your itinerary. It's a fantastic way to discover the city's rich culinary traditions and enjoy some of the best dishes Xi'an has to offer.
And don't forget to use code JOURNEYWITHJANA for 5 USD off your next LostPlate tour booking!
Happy eating!
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