Kazakh cuisine: 20 Must-Try Foods in Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan, a country rich in cultural heritage, offers a delectable array of traditional dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. From hearty meat-based dishes to flavorful pastries, Kazakh cuisine is a delightful blend of Central Asian and Middle Eastern flavors. In this article, we will explore the 20 best traditional Kazakh foods that you must try.
1. Beshbarmak
A national dish of Kazakhstan, Beshbarmak is a savory meat stew served with boiled pasta. It is traditionally made with lamb or beef and seasoned with onions and spices.
2. Kazy
Kazy is a traditional Kazakh sausage made from horse meat. It is usually served thinly sliced and is a popular choice for special occasions.
3. Baursak
Baursak is a deep-fried dough pastry that is often enjoyed as a breakfast or snack. These golden, fluffy treats are typically served with honey or jam.
4. Manty
Manty are steamed dumplings filled with seasoned ground meat and onions. They are a popular dish in Kazakhstan and can be enjoyed as a main course or appetizer.
5. Shashlik
Shashlik is a traditional Kazakh barbecue dish made with skewered and grilled chunks of marinated meat. It is often served with flatbread and fresh vegetables.
6. Kuyrdak
Kuyrdak is a hearty dish made from sautéed lamb or beef liver, kidneys, and heart. It is seasoned with onions, spices, and served with potatoes or bread.
7. Laghman
Laghman is a noodle dish that originated from China but has become a popular dish in Kazakhstan. It typically consists of hand-pulled noodles, stir-fried meat, and vegetables in a flavorful sauce.
8. Borscht
Borscht is a hearty beet soup that is popular in many Eastern European countries, including Kazakhstan. It is made with beets, cabbage, potatoes, and meat, and is often served with sour cream.
9. Kazylyk
Kazylyk is a traditional Kazakh cured meat made from horse meat. It is typically air-dried and thinly sliced. It is often enjoyed as a snack or used as an ingredient in other dishes.
10. Samsa
Samsa is a savory pastry filled with seasoned meat, onions, and spices. It is similar to a samosa and is a popular street food in Kazakhstan.
11. Kymyz
Kymyz is a traditional Kazakh fermented mare’s milk. It is known for its tangy flavor and is often enjoyed as a refreshing beverage.
12. Kurt
Kurt is a dried cheese made from sour milk. It is a popular snack in Kazakhstan and is often enjoyed with tea or as an accompaniment to other dishes.
13. Zhent
Zhent is a traditional Kazakh dish made from fermented camel milk. It has a slightly sour taste and is often enjoyed as a refreshing drink.
14. Kozhe
Kozhe is a traditional Kazakh soup made from fermented grain, usually wheat or barley. It is often served as a cold soup and is a popular summer dish.
15. Toluk
Toluk is a traditional Kazakh dish made from fermented camel milk and flour. It has a thick consistency and is often enjoyed as a breakfast or snack.
16. Chak-chak
Chak-chak is a sweet pastry made from deep-fried dough balls that are coated in honey. It is often served during special occasions and celebrations.
17. Kuyrdak
Kuyrdak is a traditional Kazakh dish made from sautéed lamb or beef liver, kidneys, and heart. It is seasoned with onions, spices, and served with potatoes or bread.
18. Shubat
Shubat is a traditional Kazakh beverage made from fermented camel milk. It is known for its tangy flavor and is often enjoyed as a refreshing drink.
19. Besbarmak
Besbarmak is a traditional Kazakh dish that translates to “five fingers” in English. It is a hearty meal made with boiled meat, usually lamb or beef, and served with pasta and onions.
20. Tamsyk
Tamsyk is a traditional Kazakh beverage made from fermented camel milk and flour. It has a thick consistency and is often enjoyed as a breakfast or snack.
These 20 traditional Kazakh foods offer a glimpse into the rich culinary heritage of Kazakhstan. Whether you are a meat lover or prefer vegetarian options, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Kazakh cuisine. So, if you ever have the opportunity to visit Kazakhstan, make sure to try these delicious dishes and experience the flavors of this fascinating country.
