For centuries, the Uighur were an important link between China and the rest of the world. They lived along the silk road and worked as caravan drivers transporting Chinese goods. Traditionally, the Uighur were shepherds and oasis farmers. Today, however, many of them are involved in businesses such as manufacturing, mining, oil drilling, trading, and transportation. One can easily see that their diet has been greatly influenced by their rural past.
Meat is eaten at every meal, and dairy products are enjoyed daily.
The Uighur love to drink tea with milk. Their staple foods also include noodles and round bread made from maize or wheat flour. The typical Uighur house is square. It includes skylights, and a flat roof that is used for drying grains and fruits. Bed frames are low to the ground, and made of bricks so that they can be heated.