Move over, avocado toast—there’s a new cultural superstar in town! Tourists in Urumqi, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, are lining up to try naan, the iconic Uygur flatbread that’s winning hearts (and appetites) one crispy bite at a time.
Ahead of China’s National Day holiday, stalls near the bustling Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar became hotspots for foodies eager to taste this traditional staple. For many visitors from eastern China, the savory bread—baked in clay ovens and stamped with intricate patterns—is a delicious introduction to Uygur culture.
Once a humble household essential, naan has evolved into a thriving local industry. Over the past decade, its popularity has soared beyond Xinjiang, becoming a symbol of regional pride and even boosting exports. Talk about a glow-up!
\"Naan isn’t just food—it’s a story of heritage and innovation,\" says a vendor at the bazaar. With every golden-brown loaf, Urumqi’s artisans are kneading tradition into tomorrow’s opportunities.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com