ADishIndependent states
Ashlan-fu
Karakol's famous cold soup of noodles, starch jelly, vinegar and chilli, from Dungan cuisine.
Ashlan-fu comes from the kitchen of Karakol's Dungans, a Muslim people who moved from China in the 19th century. It is built on thick noodles and a clear jelly made from starch (ashlyan).
A cold sauce of vinegar, chilli and tomato is poured over it, sometimes with egg, and its sour-spicy taste is especially refreshing on hot summer days.
A whole street next to Karakol's bazaar is lined with small cafés serving it.
Sources
Updated: October 3, 2026