Traditional dishes and drinks of Kazakhstan: Discover the rich flavors of Kazakh cuisine and indulge in the national dish, Beshbarmak, or try the refreshing drink, Kumys. The best places to try them are local restaurants and cafes in cities like Almaty and Nur-Sultan.

Exploring Kazakhstan’s Local Cuisine: Traditional Dishes and Drinks to Try and Where to Find Them

Kazakhstan is a country that is rich in culture and history, and one of the best ways to experience this is through its local cuisine. The traditional dishes and drinks of Kazakhstan are a reflection of its nomadic past and the influence of its neighboring countries. In this article, we will explore some of the must-try dishes and drinks in Kazakhstan and where to find them.

One of the most popular dishes in Kazakhstan is Beshbarmak, which translates to “five fingers” in Kazakh. This dish is made with boiled meat (usually lamb or beef) and served on a bed of flat noodles. It is traditionally eaten with the hands, hence the name “five fingers.” Beshbarmak is often served at special occasions such as weddings and holidays, and it is a staple dish in Kazakh cuisine. One of the best places to try Beshbarmak is at a traditional Kazakh yurt, which is a portable dwelling used by nomads in Central Asia. Many yurts have been converted into restaurants, and they offer an authentic dining experience.

Another popular dish in Kazakhstan is Plov, which is a rice dish that is similar to pilaf. Plov is made with rice, meat (usually lamb or beef), carrots, onions, and spices such as cumin and coriander. It is a hearty and filling dish that is often served at family gatherings and celebrations. Plov can be found in many restaurants throughout Kazakhstan, but one of the best places to try it is at a local market. Markets such as the Green Bazaar in Almaty offer a wide variety of traditional Kazakh dishes, including Plov.

Kazy is a type of sausage that is made from horse meat. It is a traditional Kazakh dish that has been around for centuries. Kazy is usually served as an appetizer or snack, and it is often accompanied by bread and cheese. It has a unique flavor that is slightly spicy and smoky, and it is a must-try for anyone visiting Kazakhstan. Kazy can be found in many restaurants and markets throughout the country, but one of the best places to try it is at a traditional Kazakh restaurant such as the Kazygurt in Almaty.

Shubat is a traditional Kazakh drink that is made from fermented camel milk. It has a sour taste and a slightly thick consistency, and it is often served cold. Shubat is a popular drink in Kazakhstan, especially in the southern regions where camels are more common. It is believed to have many health benefits, including aiding digestion and boosting the immune system. Shubat can be found in many restaurants and markets throughout Kazakhstan, but one of the best places to try it is at a traditional Kazakh yurt.

Kymyz is another traditional Kazakh drink that is made from fermented mare’s milk. It has a slightly sour taste and a fizzy texture, and it is often served cold. Kymyz is a popular drink in Kazakhstan, especially among nomadic communities. It is believed to have many health benefits, including improving digestion and boosting energy levels. Kymyz can be found in many restaurants and markets throughout Kazakhstan, but one of the best places to try it is at a traditional Kazakh yurt.

In addition to these traditional dishes and drinks, Kazakhstan also has a wide variety of international cuisine. Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan, is known for its diverse food scene. It has everything from Italian and French cuisine to Korean and Japanese cuisine. One of the best places to try international cuisine in Almaty is at the Arbat Street, which is a pedestrian street lined with restaurants and cafes.

In conclusion, Kazakhstan’s local cuisine is a reflection of its rich culture and history. From Beshbarmak to Kazy, there are many traditional dishes that are a must-try for anyone visiting Kazakhstan. The best places to try these dishes are at traditional Kazakh yurts and markets. In addition to traditional cuisine, Kazakhstan also has a diverse food scene that offers international cuisine. Whether you are a foodie or just looking to experience the local culture, Kazakhstan’s local cuisine is sure to leave a lasting impression.