Turkmen cuisine

Turkmen cuisine is a delightful fusion of traditions from Turkmenistan and Central Asia, offering a variety of hearty and flavorful dishes. One of the standout dishes is Plov, a savory blend of mutton, carrots, and rice, often served during celebrations. Another favorite is Manti, delectable dumplings filled with either meat or vegetables. Shurpa, a comforting meat and vegetable soup, is also a staple in Turkmen households.

Street food in Turkmenistan is a treat, with filled pies and fried dumplings like somsa and gutap being particularly popular. Unlike many other cuisines, Turkmen dishes use minimal spices, relying instead on the natural flavors of the ingredients and cottonseed oil.

Unique dishes worth trying include Chegdermeh and Shashlyk, which showcase the distinct culinary traditions of the region. Melons hold a special place in Turkmen cuisine, with the country boasting around 400 varieties!

Bread, especially naan bread known as çörek, is a common accompaniment to meals. When it comes to beverages, green tea is the go-to drink and is enjoyed by many throughout the day. Chal, a fermented camel's milk, is a traditional beverage that's quite popular, while vodka is the preferred alcoholic drink.