Peppery meatball soup 肉丸胡辣汤
Peppery meatball soup is featured among the local specialties of Shaanxi and Xi’an.
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A savory, peppery soup documented among Xiaonanmen breakfast foods; a different morning choice from a sweet rice cake.
How it is made
Small meatballs and vegetables are cooked in a thick, peppery soup. Xi'an versions commonly use beef meatballs with vegetables that retain some shape, though each shop's mixture differs.
Flavour & texture
The soup is warming and coating, with tender meatballs, softer potatoes and firmer vegetables creating a varied spoonful.
Local roots & traditions
Meatball hulatang is a Xi'an breakfast specialty distinct from some Henan versions that emphasize wheat gluten and different meat preparations.
How to order Peppery meatball soup
Ask the pepper strength and order bread separately if you want a fuller breakfast.
More dishes to compare
Explore related local specialties and compare their names, preparation notes and ordering guidance.
Crisp layered beef pancake 香酥牛肉饼 →
Thinly rolled dough is spread or filled with seasoned beef and scallions, coiled into layers and flattened before frying. The shaping creates multiple crisp seams around the filling. The outer layers are flaky and golden, while the center is juicy and savory. Scallions add a fresh aromatic edge to the beef.
Cured braised beef slices 腊牛肉 →
Beef is salted or cured, cooked slowly with aromatics and cooled before slicing. The process gives the meat a dense texture and a deep color. The slices are savory and concentrated, with a firm grain that should still yield when cut thinly. This is prepared meat rather than a raw cured product by default.
Questions before you order
What name should I show when ordering?
Show 肉丸胡辣汤 for Peppery meatball soup. Ask the pepper strength and order bread separately if you want a fuller breakfast.
Sources & reading
Recipes and servings vary between kitchens.