Food in Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan stands as a crossroads of cultures and traditions, a characteristic that is vividly reflected in its diverse and flavorful cuisine. As a visitor to this Central Asian nation, you are in for a culinary adventure that offers a taste of not just Turkmen delicacies but also the influences of its nomadic heritage and neighboring countries. Familiarize yourself with the essential dishes of Turkmenistan's gastronomy to fully experience the country's rich culture and warm hospitality during your stay.

Turkmen Dishes

Plov (Palaw)

Plov, also known as palaw, is the national dish of Turkmenistan and a staple at festive occasions. It is a hearty rice dish typically cooked with mutton, carrots, onions, and a blend of spices such as cumin and black pepper. Each region has its own variation of plov, with some adding fruits like quince or dried apricots for a touch of sweetness.

Shurpa (Shorpa)

Shurpa is a rich and aromatic soup that is popular in Turkmen cuisine. It's made with chunks of fatty mutton, potatoes, carrots, and tomatoes, simmered with a variety of herbs and spices. This comforting soup is known for its restorative properties and is often enjoyed as a starter or a warming main dish during colder months.

Beshbarmak

Beshbarmak, meaning "five fingers," is a traditional Turkmen dish reflecting the nomadic heritage of the region. It consists of boiled meat, traditionally horse or mutton, served over thinly rolled dough that has been boiled and then sprinkled with a flavorful onion sauce. It's a communal dish often eaten with hands, symbolizing hospitality and kinship.

Manti

Manti are steamed dumplings filled with ground meat, usually lamb or beef, mixed with spices and onions. They are wrapped in a thin dough and steamed until cooked through. Served with a dollop of sour cream or a vinegar-based sauce, manti is a beloved comfort food in Turkmenistan.

Ishlekli

Ishlekli is a type of meat pie that's popular in Turkmen cuisine. It's made with a filling of minced meat, often lamb, mixed with onions and spices, encased in a crispy dough. This savory pastry is typically baked in a tandoor oven and can be found in many Turkmen households, especially during celebrations.

Kebabs

Grilled meats, or kebabs, are a favorite throughout Central Asia, and Turkmenistan is no exception. Skewers of marinated lamb, beef, or chicken are grilled over an open flame, producing a smoky and tender meat dish often served with flatbreads and fresh vegetables.

Yarma

Yarma is a traditional Turkmen dish made from crushed wheat that's been cooked and mixed with meat, usually lamb. It's seasoned with an array of spices and sometimes garnished with red pepper or onions. This wholesome dish is a common feature in the Turkmen diet, particularly in rural areas.

Chorba

Chorba is a soup that is quite prevalent in Turkmenistan's culinary repertoire. It's a hearty soup made from meat, often lamb or beef, and can include a variety of vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and tomatoes. It's seasoned with herbs and sometimes served with a spoonful of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top.

Gutap

Gutap is a type of fried pie that comes with various fillings, including meat, pumpkin, spinach, or potatoes. The thin dough is filled and then folded into half-moons before being fried to a golden crisp. Gutap is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a snack or a light meal.

Samsa

Samsa is a savory pastry that is similar to the Indian samosa. It is typically filled with minced meat, onions, and spices, then baked in a tandoor oven. The flaky crust and rich filling make samsa a popular street food and a tasty snack throughout Turkmenistan.

Turkmen Desserts

Chak-Chak

Chak-Chak is a sweet treat made from deep-fried dough that's been shaped into balls or sticks and then coated in a sticky honey syrup. It's a common dessert in Turkmenistan, especially during celebrations and festivities.

Pishme

Pishme are simple yet delicious Turkmen doughnuts. The dough is made from flour, water, and yeast, then deep-fried until golden brown. They are often dusted with powdered sugar or dipped in honey and are a favorite treat among children and adults alike.

Zefir

Zefir is a type of soft confectionery similar to marshmallows, made from fruit puree, sugar, and egg whites. It's light and airy with a delicate sweetness and comes in various flavors. Zefir is a popular dessert in Turkmenistan, enjoyed for its melt-in-the-mouth texture.

Navat

Navat is a traditional crystallized sugar candy that's often enjoyed with tea. Made by boiling sugar syrup until it crystallizes, navat is said to aid digestion and is commonly offered to guests as a symbol of hospitality.

Halva

Halva is a dense, sweet confection made from sugar, flour, and butter, often enriched with nuts or seeds. In Turkmenistan, halva is typically made with sunflower seeds and has a crumbly texture. It's a popular sweet treat consumed with tea or as a dessert.