Hand-grabbed rice
Hand-grabbed rice (called "Polao" or "Bolao" in Uyghur) is one of the most representative staple foods in Xinjiang and a top-level feast for entertaining guests among the Uyghur, Kazakh and other ethnic groups. This dish is called "hand-grabbed rice" because, according to traditional customs, people sit in a circle, pile the rice in a pyramid shape on a plate, and eat it directly with their right hand after washing it.
Restaurant Recommendations
Hetian Rose Pilaf
This restaurant is widely recognized as the "best of the best" for pilaf in Urumqi and is also the most popular pilaf specialty store. Many food critics have said that "not eating here is like not having been to Xinjiang."
Minced Meat Pilaf - Ma Shanhu
Their specialty is minced meat pilaf. The minced meat is evenly distributed in the rice, and every bite is full of meaty flavor. The environment is also relatively clean and hygienic.
One flag pilaf
The signature dish is lamb leg pilaf with a flag; the lamb leg is huge and stewed until tender. The rice is oily and the carrots are sweet.
