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Coming here from the eastern or southern part of
China, you will find sharp differences not only in landscape, architecture and culture,
but also in dining. It is accepted that the Silk Road had significant influence on the
food that is still served today, especially that coming from the west. The most dominant
food styles, beyond the local food, are those from Tibet, Xinjiang, Sichuan and Sha"anxi. Flour products are the staple food of the inhabitants of this northwestern province,
and it is the Beef Noodle that has
made its mark upon every city, town and village throughout the region. This type of pasta
is especially noticeable in Lanzhou,
where almost every street in the entire city either has a beef noodle shop (Lanzhou
lamian guan) or stalls that sell the cheap and tasty dish. Other cities and towns are
also distinguished by their own noodles. Of particular note, are the three specialties of Dunhuang, the Rangpi, the Yellow Noodles, and the Saozi Noodle, and the Mianpi
of Tianshui. The main meat dishes in the province are, similar to their northwestern Muslim neighbor
Xinjiang, lamb and beef. Of
the better culinary places to visit for serious meat eaters is Zhangye, where both the Lamb
Soup and the Cured Lamb, are worth attempting. In Lanzhou, you
may also sample the succulent Roast
Whole Lamb or the interesting beef-stuffed
cake. If you are vegetarian there are fewer interesting options for you in the province. The
obvious place to head would be the Tibetan monastery town, Xiahe, that has many
delicacies both Tibetan and Western for you to try. The yoghurt and pancakes are the best
way to fill a travel weary stomach. |
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