Hey amigos! 🚀 Last week, CGTN's Caroline Wu invited Kevin, a visitor from the United States, on an epic foodie mission in the heart of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Their stop? A cozy, bustling restaurant that smells like home-cooked magic! ✨
First up was da pan ji 🍗—a giant pan of braised chicken loaded with fragrant spices, tender potatoes and peppers. One bite and Kevin's eyes lit up! The savory broth and kick of chili made it an instant favorite. 🔥
Next came gan ban mian 🍜, those famous hand-pulled noodles swimming in a rich, slightly sweet sauce. The noodles were perfectly chewy, sliding easily with every slurp. Kevin couldn't help but compare them to his favorite ramen—but with a totally new twist! 😉
To round off the meal, they tore into fresh naan 🫓—warm, fluffy flatbread that's crunchy on the outside and soft inside. Dunked in sauces or eaten solo, it was the perfect sidekick for all those bold flavors. 😋
As the night went on, Kevin soaked up the lively vibe: Uygur music playing, locals chatting, and the clatter of pots and pans. It wasn't just a meal—it was a backstage pass to Xinjiang's vibrant food culture. Ready to start your own flavor quest? 🌍✨
Reference(s):
A taste of Xinjiang: An American guest's journey into local cuisine
cgtn.com