Food in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan, a vast country with a rich history, invites travelers to experience a blend of traditions and flavors in its multifaceted cuisine. As the world's ninth-largest country, Kazakhstan has a culinary landscape that has evolved over centuries, influenced by nomadic cultures and neighboring nations. Visitors to this Central Asian gem can expect to indulge in hearty and nourishing dishes that reflect the local way of life. Discover the must-try Kazakh delicacies that promise to provide an authentic taste of the nation's cultural heritage.

Kazakhstani Dishes

Beshbarmak

Beshbarmak is the national dish of Kazakhstan, traditionally made with horse meat, although it can also be prepared with beef or lamb. The name means "five fingers," reflecting the traditional way of eating it by hand. It consists of boiled meat served over homemade noodles and topped with a broth called "sorpa," garnished with parsley or dill. Beshbarmak is often served during special occasions and is a symbol of Kazakh hospitality.

Kazy

Kazy is a traditional Kazakh sausage made from horse rib meat, which is seasoned with garlic, salt, and pepper, then stuffed into horse intestine casings. It is typically smoked or dried and served in thin slices. Kazy is a common addition to Beshbarmak and other Kazakh dishes, adding a distinctive flavor and richness.

Shashlik

Shashlik is a form of skewered and grilled meat, similar to kebabs, which is popular in Kazakhstan. It is typically made with marinated lamb, beef, or sometimes chicken, and cooked over an open flame. Shashlik is often accompanied by onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes, also threaded onto the skewers. It is a popular street food and is commonly enjoyed at social gatherings.

Kuurdak

Kuurdak is a hearty meat stew that is considered one of the oldest Kazakh dishes. It is traditionally made with offal, such as liver, kidney, and heart, but can also be made with beef or lamb. The meat is fried with onions and sometimes potatoes and served with flatbread. Kuurdak is known for its savory and rich flavor.

Qarta

Qarta is a traditional dish made from the large intestines of cattle or sheep. It is cleaned thoroughly, boiled until tender, and then fried with onions and seasoned with salt and spices. This dish is an acquired taste but is cherished as a delicacy and a part of Kazakh culinary heritage.

Sorpa

Sorpa is a savory broth that is often served alongside dishes like Beshbarmak or consumed on its own. It is rich in flavor, typically made from boiling meat bones for an extended period, and is believed to have restorative properties. Sorpa is seasoned with salt and sometimes flavored with herbs or spices.

Manty

Manty are large dumplings filled with ground meat, usually lamb or beef, mixed with onions and spices. They are steamed and often served with a side of sour cream or a vinegar-based sauce. Manty is a popular comfort food in Kazakhstan and is commonly eaten during family gatherings.

Baursaki

Baursaki are puffy deep-fried bread that is a staple at Kazakh celebrations and everyday meals. They are made from a simple dough, cut into pieces, and fried until golden brown. Baursaki are enjoyed with tea, used to dip into soups and stews, or eaten plain as a snack.

Kazakhstani Desserts

Chak-Chak

Chak-Chak is a popular Kazakh sweet made from unleavened dough that is shaped into small balls or sticks, deep-fried, and then drenched in hot honey syrup. Once cooled, it forms a sticky and sweet treat that is typically served during celebrations and special occasions.

Shelpek

Shelpek is a traditional Kazakh flatbread that is deep-fried and often enjoyed as a dessert or snack. The dough is typically made from flour, milk, sugar, butter, and yeast, and is shaped into rounds before being fried. Shelpek is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, and can be enjoyed with honey, jam, or simply on its own.

Qurt

Qurt is a traditional Central Asian snack made from dried sour milk or yogurt. It is formed into small, hard balls and has a salty, tangy taste. Qurt is rich in protein and is often consumed as a snack, particularly by nomadic people, due to its long shelf life and nutritional value.

Zhent

Zhent, also known as jent, is a traditional Kazakh dessert made from a mixture of toasted flour, sugar, and qurt. It is sometimes enriched with nuts, seeds, and dried fruit. Zhent is seen as a nutritious treat and is particularly popular during the Nauryz holiday, which marks the beginning of spring.

Baursak with Sweet Fillings

While baursak is typically savory, it can also be adapted into a sweet treat. The dough is stuffed with sweet fillings such as jam, sweetened cottage cheese, or honey before being fried. These sweet baursaks are often dusted with powdered sugar and served as a dessert or tea-time snack.