Roujiamo Reinvents Itself: "One Bun, Endless Flavors" Ignites Xi'an's Latest Food Craze, Back on Top

Xi’an’s Famous Roujiamo Is Now Trendier Than Ever

Xi’an’s roujiamo isn’t just a snack—it’s becoming a creative sensation. From cute plush toys to ice cream and even Italian-style sandwiches, this classic dish is getting fun new twists while keeping its traditional taste.

Roujiamo Turned into Ice Cream

On August 17, a sign saying “Roujiamo Ice Cream” caught many people’s eyes on West Street in Xi’an. This unique dessert looks like a traditional baked bun filled with ice cream.

Mr. Wang, a 68-year-old local, said, “I’ve eaten roujiamo my whole life, but never a sweet one.” He bought one for his grandson and was pleasantly surprised. “The shell is crispy, and the inside is cool and sweet. Kids love it.”

Young people were also lining up to take photos with the ice cream. Xiaomeng, a university student, said, “It tastes like an ice cream puff—crunchy and sweet.” This creative treat costs only 5 yuan and is made with a wafer shell, creamy cheese, and shredded chicken.

It’s created by Zhongleng Cold Dessert, a 71-year-old local brand known for its classic “Clock Tower Ice Cream.” Now, they’re telling a new story with this innovative dessert.

Italian Bread Meets Chinese Braised Meat

Another new hit is the “Roujiamo Ciabatta.” Ciabatta is a type of Italian bread, but in Xi’an, it’s being filled with traditional braised meat.

This fusion food is gaining popularity at a bakery in the MOMOPARK shopping mall. Many young customers say it’s “familiar yet new.”

Wang Yuanyuan, a local, tried it and said, “The meat tastes the same, but the bread is chewier and richer.” Another customer laughed, “I often eat ciabatta, but I never expected it to go so well with Chinese meat. It’s delicious!”

The bakery staff explained that the ciabatta’s airy texture soaks up the meat’s juices perfectly, making each bite flavorful.

Sharing Xi’an’s Culture Through Roujiamo

At a cultural gift shop near the Clock Tower, tourists enjoy “Rong Momo”—soft plush toys designed like roujiamo.

Unlike ordinary souvenirs, these let people “make” their own roujiamo by putting felt “meat” and “vegetables” between two bun-shaped pieces. It’s interactive, cute, and full of local character.

A tourist from Sichuan said, “It’s adorable and meaningful—a great way to remember Xi’an.” Another visitor mentioned, “I saw it online and had to come buy one. It’s so creative.”

Chen Jiajin, part of the design team, said, “Roujiamo is a symbol of Shaanxi. We want more people to learn about our culture through these cute products.” The team plans to make more items, like “vegetable roujiamo” and “liangpi” plush toys, to build a unique cultural brand for Shaanxi.

In Xi’an, roujiamo is more than food—a way of life. It can be served in soup, broken into pieces, turned into bread, or even become a cultural icon. Through these new ideas, Xi’an is sharing its story with the world.