A Taste of China: Tibetan Food

Tibet, known in Chinese as Xīzàng (西藏), is the highest region on earth, with an average elevation of 4,900 meters (16,000 ft). Due to the high elevation, the Tibetan food has had to adjust and is therefore quite different from our own.

Vegetables are hard to grow, so the main foods are meat and dairy products (such as yogurt, milk, and butter) from yaks, cows, and sheep. Occasionally Chinese style dishes will also be served, though the ingredients are rare.

As barley is the principal crop, barley-based dough, dumplings, and beer are common. Other beverages are yogurt drinks and butter tea.

Common dishes are momos (dumplings), meat noodles, tsampa (barley dough), spicy stews, mutton chops, and curries.

Still hungry? Read more about the ancient secrets in Chinese cuisine, on how to order and prepare Chinese food, or if you’re brave try it our yourself, see our story on how to become a true Chinese Master Chef.