10 Traditional Kazakhstan Food & Dishes to Try

Kazakhstan’s cultural richness, vast deserts, geographical diversity, stunning attractions, and awe-inspiring attractions make it a popular tourist destination. Besides, there is one more thing that captivates visitors. And that is Kazakhstan food. The delicious delicacies of Kazakhstan drool tourists with their incredible taste. It is an exciting experience to dwell in the national cuisines of Kazakhstan. Most dishes in Kazakhstan include meat. Traditional Kazakh dishes are well-suited to a nomadic way of life.

If you want to try Kazakh food, you can skim through the list of the best cuisines that you should try in Kazakhstan. We have put together these 10 dishes that every tourist must taste.

10 Most Popular Kazakhstan Cuisines

You can refer to this list while scrolling down the menu in Kazakhstan. We are sure your taste buds will thank us later.

1. Palau (Kazakh Pilaf)

Palau or Kazakh Pilaf is the most-loved Kazakh cuisine. It is a rice-based dish that consists of many ingredients like onions, carrots, spices, and meat. It is a central Asian delicacy that Kazakhs love and have their recipe for it. If you don’t want meat, add vegetables in Palau and enjoy. The mouthwatering flavors of this dish will have you wanting more. The best part about this cuisine is that you can find this dish almost anywhere and on every menu. All you have to do is go out to the market and try this delicacy of Kazakhstan.

2. Kuurdak

Kuurdak is another ancient Central Asian cuisine. It is popular among other Kazakhstan dishes. After Palau, Kuurdak is the next dish that is most favorite among tourists and locals alike. Made with roasted or deep-fried meat, garlic, onions, and potatoes, Kuurdak has a vast foodaholic base. Kuurdak is originally from Kyrgyzstan, but it is also famous in Kazakhstan. This sizzling dish is available on every menu in the country. It is one of the oldest dishes of Kazakhstan that still holds the same essence and significance. If you are in Kazakhstan and want to indulge in a delectable delicacy, Kuurdak is the right choice.

3. Beshbarmak

Beshbarmak is one of the top names in the list of mouthwatering Kazakhstan dishes. It is Kazakh’s national dish. Beshbarmak contains boiled meat, thin pasta sheets, and a sauce made of meat broth, onions, salt, and pepper. The most common names of this dish are Turama, Khorkhog, Naryn, Tullama, and Dograma. Beshbarmak means “five fingers”, which signifies how nomadic people eat it with their hands. No occasion or celebration is complete without Beshbarmak on the table. Every restaurant has this cuisine on its menu. You can have it anywhere. While wandering the streets of Kazakhstan, don’t forget to try this delicious dish.

4. Koktal

Koktal is one of the best Kazakh dishes that offers smoky flavors to make your taste buds dance. It is a hot smoked fish that hides secret flavors inside. Everyone in Kazakhstan has a different recipe for Koktal. It is prepared from freshwater fish. The aromatic flavors of this dish will leave you with an unforgettable aftertaste imprint in your mind. The ingredients used in this cuisine are sweet peppers, onions, and tomatoes. Koktal may take longer to cook, but it is worth the wait. If you are holidaying in Kazakhstan, always remember to try Koktal at least once. The savory flavors of this food will get you going.

5. Manti

Manti is the famous Kazakhstan cuisine that is popular among the youth. It is a steamed dumpling enriched with the softness of thin dough and the rich taste of fillings. This dish has many shapes and sizes, depending on the region. It is a good-to-go snack for tourists and locals that they can find in every nook and corner. The typical ingredients of Manti are spiced meat, chopped pumpkin, and a bit of black pepper. Kazakhs serve this dish with sour cream and an onion or garlic sauce.

6. Shelpek

Shelpek is a delightful Kazakh cuisine. It is a type of Central Asian flatbread widely known throughout the country. Shelpek is made from dough consisting of sour cream, flour, milk, baking soda, sugar, salt, and butter. It is deep-fried in vegetable oil till it gets golden brown. It resembles the Indian delicacy called Puri. These flatbreads are commonly prepared on Friday to honor the spirits of the ancestors. Shelpeks are usually served with cheese, jam, or sour cream accompanied by a cup of tea. You can find Shelpek on almost every menu and dinner table. If you come to Kazakhstan, please try this bread.

7. Tandyr Nan

Tandyr Nan is the most cherished Kazakhstan food that holds cultural significance. It is a traditional Central Asian bread baked in a clay oven which is called a Tandyr. The main components of this bread are water, a pinch of salt, and flour. A smoky, crispy, and earthy aroma is given to the crust of Tandyr Nan during the baking process. This versatile Tandyr Nan can be accompanied by both savor and sweet dishes. But it is eaten with meat dishes, including Plov, Beshbarmak, and horse meat stew. It is also wonderfully paired with cheeses, fresh vegetables, and dips.

8. Chak Chak

Chak-Chak is the sweet Kazakhstan cuisine. This delectable treat is a captivating yet simple dessert made from a handful of ingredients. The main elements of this cuisine are flour, oil, honey, etc. The typical aroma of honey leaves a last-longing tasteful impression on visitors. Chak-Chak holds a cultural significance for locals. It is prepared during occasions and celebrations, such as weddings and family reunions. Chak-Chak also signifies the delightful hospitality of the Kazakh people. Therefore, sharing Chak-Chak is a gesture of Kazakh hospitality. Often, guests are welcomed with a plate of Chak-Chak.

9. Irimshik

Irimshik is a true gem of Kazakhstan’s culinary heritage. It is undoubtedly one of the best sweet Kazakh dishes that holds a special significance in the hearts of tourists and visitors. This sweet dessert showcases the essence of Kazakhstan’s culture. Irimshik’s main ingredients are wheat flour, butter, sugar, etc. The heavenly taste of this dessert leaves a lasting impression on anyone who is having it. Irimshik is a national dessert of Kazakhstan. It symbolizes joy, abundance, and togetherness. If you seek an authentic taste of Kazakh dessert, Irimshik is the treat for you.

10. Nan-Salma

Nan-Salma is one of the most traditional Kazakhstan dishes that offers delightful flavors. It somewhat resembles the Lagman. This slavering dish consists of meat, gravy, noodles, onions, and aromatic spices, making it finger-licking good cuisine. As you sip this aromatic broth and savor the tender noodles, it satiates and nourishes your soul. If you are in Kazakhstan, Nan-Salma must be on your things-to-eat list.

Eat and Explore in Kazakhstan with Dook!

We are sure this list of mouthful dishes to try in Kazakhstan will make you eat them all. If this is what you want, then plan a holiday in Kazakhstan. Dook International has ample tour packages assisting every kind of travel need. Our Kazakhstan tour packages are customized so you can personalize them as per your travel preferences. We provide full-time assistance throughout your trip. From visa facilities to hotel accommodations, we take care of everything. So, why are you wasting time? Get ready for a tasteful yet adventurous experience in Kazakhstan.

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