Traditional Turkmen Cuisine: Discover the rich flavors of Turkmenistan’s national dishes and drinks. Explore the best local restaurants to savor the authentic taste of Turkmen cuisine.

Traditional Dishes and Drinks of Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan is a country located in Central Asia, bordered by Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Iran, and Afghanistan. The country is known for its rich culture and history, which is reflected in its traditional dishes and drinks. The local cuisine of Turkmenistan is a blend of various influences, including Persian, Russian, and Turkish. In this article, we will explore the traditional dishes and drinks of Turkmenistan and the best places to try them.

One of the most popular dishes in Turkmenistan is plov, which is a rice dish cooked with meat, vegetables, and spices. Plov is a staple food in Central Asia, and each country has its own version of the dish. In Turkmenistan, plov is usually made with lamb or beef, and it is cooked in a large pot over an open fire. The rice is flavored with onions, carrots, and cumin, giving it a rich and aromatic taste. Plov is often served with a side of yogurt or a salad.

Another popular dish in Turkmenistan is manty, which are steamed dumplings filled with meat and vegetables. Manty is a traditional food in Central Asia, and it is often served during special occasions such as weddings and festivals. The dumplings are made with a mixture of ground lamb or beef, onions, and spices, and they are steamed until they are tender and juicy. Manty is usually served with a side of sour cream or a tomato-based sauce.

Shashlik is another traditional dish in Turkmenistan, which is a type of kebab made with marinated meat and vegetables. Shashlik is usually made with lamb or beef, and it is marinated in a mixture of vinegar, oil, and spices. The meat is then skewered and grilled over an open flame, giving it a smoky and charred flavor. Shashlik is often served with a side of bread or rice.

In addition to these traditional dishes, Turkmenistan is also known for its delicious drinks. One of the most popular drinks in Turkmenistan is chai, which is a type of tea that is served with sugar and milk. Chai is a staple drink in Central Asia, and it is often served during social gatherings and meetings. The tea is brewed with loose tea leaves and water, and it is then mixed with sugar and milk to create a creamy and sweet flavor.

Another popular drink in Turkmenistan is ayran, which is a type of yogurt drink that is served cold. Ayran is made with yogurt, water, and salt, and it is often served as a refreshing drink during hot summer days. The drink has a tangy and slightly salty taste, and it is often served with a side of bread or a salad.

If you want to try the traditional dishes and drinks of Turkmenistan, there are several places where you can do so. One of the best places to try plov is at the Ashgabat Sunday Bazaar, which is a large market that sells a variety of goods, including food. The bazaar is located in the capital city of Ashgabat, and it is open every Sunday. You can also try manty and shashlik at local restaurants and cafes in Ashgabat and other cities in Turkmenistan.

If you want to try chai and ayran, you can visit a local teahouse or cafe. Teahouses are a popular gathering place in Turkmenistan, and they offer a variety of teas and snacks. You can also try chai and ayran at local restaurants and cafes, which often serve them as a complimentary drink with meals.

In conclusion, the traditional dishes and drinks of Turkmenistan are a reflection of the country’s rich culture and history. Plov, manty, shashlik, chai, and ayran are just a few examples of the delicious foods and drinks that you can try in Turkmenistan. Whether you are a foodie or just looking to experience the local culture, Turkmenistan has something to offer for everyone. So, the next time you visit Turkmenistan, be sure to try some of these traditional dishes and drinks and immerse yourself in the country’s vibrant culinary scene.