Meet Roujiamo: China’s 2,200-Year-Old Street Food Legend
Forget avocado toast — the real OG handheld meal is here! Roujiamo, a savory meat-stuffed flatbread from Xi’an in northwest China, has been winning hearts (and stomachs) since the Qin Dynasty. 🌯✨ Dubbed the world’s oldest hamburger, this crispy-on-the-outside, juicy-on-the-inside delight features slow-cooked pork, lamb, or beef tucked into a pita-like bun. Think of it as the ancient ancestor of your drive-thru fave, but with WAY more street cred.
From Emperors to TikTokers
Originally a working-class staple, roujiamo is now a viral hit across China’s food scenes. Street vendors and fancy cafes alike are putting their spin on it — some even adding spicy cumin or herbs for a modern kick. 🧑🍳🌶️ Pro tip: If you’re traveling through the Chinese mainland, follow the lunchtime crowds to find the best spots!
Why Foodies Are Obsessed
This isn’t just a snack — it’s edible history. Food historians say roujiamo reflects ancient Silk Road trade routes, with flavors influenced by Central Asian spices. For Asia’s diaspora communities, it’s a craveable taste of home. And for the rest of us? A delicious reminder that good ideas (seriously, meat + bread?) truly stand the test of time. 🕰️🍖
