ROU JIA MO

Where to Eat It: Xi’an

Essentially a Chinese version of döner kebab,rou jia mo is one of the world’s oldest sandwiches, dating back at least 2000 years. The traditional version combines pork that has been stewed in a heavily spiced (think lots of cumin) soup for several hours, which is then minced and stuffed in a flatbread with cilantro and mild peppers (beef is a common substitute in Muslim areas, and lamb is also popular in some regions). Rou jia mo originated in Shaanxi Province, whose capital is Xi’an (home to the famous Terracotta Army), but is now widely consumed in other parts of China. It’s easiest to find in the northern part of the country, so look for it in Beijing if Xi’an isn’t on your itinerary. And should you ever find yourself in Beijing, be sure to try jian bing, habit-forming crepes stuffed with eggs, cilantro, and crispy wonton crackers, made at street carts around the city.