Xinjiang Yogurt and Ice Cream: A Sweet Summer Treat

Xinjiang yogurt is tart and thick, while its ice cream boasts a rich dairy flavor. Strolling through bazaars and the old town in summer, enjoying these treats as you go, offers the most direct way to beat the heat—but you'll need to control the sweetness and portion sizes yourself.

Ways to Enjoy Yogurt

Plain yogurt is typically sugar-free, so you can add sugar or honey to taste. Yogurt zongzi involves drizzling yogurt over sticky rice dumplings for a sweet-and-tangy combination. Yogurt shaved ice is popular in summer and offers a refreshing texture.

• Plain Yogurt: Tangy and thick; add sugar to taste.
• Yogurt Zongzi: A sweet and tangy blend with generous portions.
• Yogurt Shaved Ice: Stay cool this summer—ensure food safety.

Ice Cream and Maloosh

Handmade ice cream has a rich milky flavor and medium sweetness; old town shops often use traditional methods. Malash is a blended drink of ice cream and yogurt, with a texture between a milkshake and a smoothie.

Portions are generally large; one serving is best shared by two.

Sweetness and Hygiene

Local flavors tend to be sweeter; request less sugar. For street-side ice treats, choose shops with high foot traffic to avoid products left out in the heat for too long.

If you're lactose intolerant, start with small amounts and avoid consuming large quantities on an empty stomach.

When to eat

Enjoy as a palate-cleansing dessert after a meal, or grab one during your afternoon break at the Bazaar. After heavy grilled meats, yogurt feels more refreshing than an icy drink.

See more diet combinations atDairy Products and Milk Tea。

Take it home

Fresh yogurt requires refrigeration and spoils easily during long trips. It is not recommended to carry it on planes or trains. For souvenirs, consider powdered milk, milk tablets, or vacuum-packed dairy products. Always check the production date and expiration date.

Bazaar's freshly made yogurt is sold by the bowl in disposable containers, making it convenient to sit and eat on the spot. If you have a few days left in your itinerary, plan to buy it one or two days before your departure to avoid storing it for long periods during travel.

Order of manual additions

Plain yogurt is tangy. For best texture, add a small amount of sugar or honey first and stir well. Then add dried fruit and nuts, followed by fresh fruit. Add in moderation; top up after finishing to avoid overwhelming the yogurt flavor with sweetness.

Ice cream melts quickly. For the most even texture, eat the edges first, then the center. In hot weather, especially outdoors, choose smaller portions to enjoy longer and reduce strain on your stomach.

Street-side yogurt is usually made the same day. Check that containers are clean and kept refrigerated. If you have a sensitive stomach, start with a small amount of plain yogurt; avoid adding ice right away. After eating ice cream, sip some warm water—it feels much better than immediately drinking something cold.

It's more comfortable to enjoy yogurt at home than while standing by the roadside. Before adding honey, taste the yogurt first to gauge its tartness and adjust the amount accordingly. Seal any leftovers and refrigerate; they make a great next-day breakfast with naan, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

When buying ice cream in summer, check that the freezer is cold enough; avoid soft or melted products. After eating, wipe your hands with a tissue before continuing to browse the bazaar to prevent sticky fingers from affecting your shopping and to reduce the risk of staining your clothes.

See the difference between milk tea and dairy products.Xinjiang Dairy Products and Milk TeaWhat to eat in summerFood & Scenery Categories。

Related reading

• Xinjiang Dairy Products and Milk Tea: The Everyday Taste of the Grasslands
• Xinjiang Seasonal Fruit Calendar: What to Eat When
• Xinjiang Tea Houses and Cafés: Slow Moments in the City
• Food & Scenery Categories

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Xinjiang yogurt particularly sour?

Local yogurt is typically plain, unsweetened, and fermented with high acidity. You can add sugar or honey yourself, or choose a version with jam.

Can lactose-intolerant people drink Xinjiang milk tea?

Milk tea contains milk and may cause discomfort. You can start with small amounts of yogurt or choose dairy-free teas.

Supplementary Note: This article was compiled by a tour consultant from Xinjiang China International Travel Service (Xinjiang CITIC). Xinjiang travel itineraries and information are subject to seasonal changes and road conditions. Dining and accommodation arrangements can be discussed directly with our local travel consultants via online consultation.