Houston’s Northwest China Cuisine Map
By Bohan Zhang, Ph.D. Student in the Department of History
Northwest cuisine encapsulates the rich flavors of the northwestern region of China, encompassing areas such as Xinjiang, Gansu, Shaanxi, Qinghai, and Ningxia, among others. This culinary tradition flourishes along the historical Silk Road, spanning from Chang’an (modern-day Xi’an, Shaanxi Province) to the Roman Empire on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean and Constantinople at the Black Sea. Characterized by abundant livestock farming, challenging climate, and predominant Islamic beliefs among ethnic minorities, Northwest cuisine boasts a distinctive emphasis on lamb, beef, and cooked wheaten food.
Cuisine of Shaanxi Province
Shaanxi cuisine stands out for its unique taste and culinary techniques. Its defining features include a fusion of raw ingredients sourced from the Yellow River and Yangtze River basins, coupled with nationally renowned products. Notably, Shaanxi cuisine is distinguished by its bold flavors, characterized by a delightful interplay of sourness, spiciness, and freshness.
The culinary landscape of Shaanxi also celebrates a special affinity for pastries and noodles. One iconic snack is Oil Splashed Noodles (You Po Mian), featuring soft noodles bathed in aromatic chili oil and assorted toppings—a dish that tantalizes the taste buds. Additionally, Shaanxi Cold Rice Noodles (Shaanxi Liang Pi) and Chinese hamburger (Rou Jia Mo) are cherished classics, each embodying the region's rich culinary heritage and traditional essence.
Several restaurants in Houston offer an authentic taste of Shaanxi cuisine. Northern Pasta (9256 Bellaire Blvd, Houston, TX 77036) serves delectable Shaanxi Cold Rice Noodles, while Lau’s Kitchen (6348 Corporate Dr, Houston, TX 77036) specializes in Chinese hamburgers. For a comprehensive experience, Xing’s Kitchen (3412 Hwy 6 Suite K, Sugar Land, TX 77478) offers both with unwavering authenticity!
Cuisine of Gansu Province
Gansu cuisine is renowned for its abundant use of beef and lamb, offering dishes with a robust flavor profile characterized by saltiness, freshness, sourness, and spiciness. This culinary tradition seamlessly integrates the best of both Northern and Southern Chinese culinary styles, resulting in a rich and savory taste that captivates the palate.
One of the most celebrated dishes in Gansu cuisine is Hand-handled Lamb, exemplifying the region’s culinary prowess with its tender and flavorful meat. Another iconic dish is Lanzhou Ramen, affectionately known as “beef noodles,” hailed as a representative of Lanzhou food. This beloved dish features fragrant noodle soup, meticulously selected noodles, and succulent beef, all simmered to perfection to ensure a rich and satisfying dining experience. Accompanied by garnishes such as garlic, chili oil, and fresh coriander, Lanzhou ramen leaves a lasting impression with its irresistible flavor profile.
The Maad Lamb Cuisine (8300 W Sam Houston Pkwy S Suite 218, Houston, TX 77072), a newly opened restaurant, is a great place to taste Hand-handled Lamb. There are lots of different kinds of Lamb dishes to choose from. The taste is fantastic! If you're a fan of Lanzhou ramen, I've heard great things about the authenticity of Noodle Master (8201 Broadway St, Pearland, 77581), although I haven’t had the chance to try it myself. It might be worth checking out!
Xinjiang Cuisine
Xinjiang cuisine embodies the distinctive characteristics of halal cuisine while showcasing the bold flavors and aromatic nuances of Northwest Chinese culinary tradition. Featuring a diverse array of ingredients including meat, and eggs, Xinjiang cuisine boasts a unique approach to seasoning, emphasizing the use of beef and lamb in its culinary repertoire.
Primarily influenced by Muslim culinary practices, Xinjiang cuisine predominantly features beef, lamb, and chicken, prepared using frying, roasting, and grilling techniques to enhance their natural flavors. Signature dishes include Roasted Whole Lamb, Big-dish Chicken, and Naan Wrapping Lamb, each offering a blend of saltiness and spiciness that delights the senses. Renowned for its tender and succulent texture, Xinjiang lamb is a must-try for its exquisite taste.
Unfortunately, there is no restaurant specializing in Xinjiang food in Houston. The nearest one, Turan Uyghur (2001 Coit Rd #163, Plano, TX 75075), is in Dallas. However, Xinjiang BBQ (a fusion of Xinjiang and Northeastern Chinese cuisine, 9260 Bellaire Blvd, Houston, TX 77036) and Stone Age Street Food (9252 Bellaire Blvd c, Houston, TX 77036) offer Xinjiang Kebabs, which can provide a glimpse into the bold and flavorful world of Xinjiang cuisine.
Please check out my previous blogs on Northern and Southern Chinese food in Houston! Also, please stay tuned for my future blogs about Chinese food and explore the vibrant world of Chinese cuisine in H-Town with me!