Food & beverages
Khorkhog - roasted meat
Khorkhog, a culinary treasure of the Mongolian nomads, is a dish held in high esteem, especially for honored guests. This delectable feast involves roasting a whole goat or sheep in a container with hot stones and a delightful blend of seasonings. The result is an exquisite barbecue infused with a rich and hearty broth. As part of the delightful tradition, guests hold the hot stones briefly, believing it to be beneficial for their health, before indulging in the succulent roasted meat. Khorkhog gatherings become especially enjoyable when shared with families, groups of friends, and loved ones. The joy of togetherness adds an extra layer of deliciousness to this remarkable dining experience. During our trips, you'll have the delightful opportunity to savor the flavorsome Khorkhog dinner, immersing yourself in the authentic taste of Mongolia and the warm hospitality of its nomadic culture.
Various dumplings
The nomads' culinary creativity shines through their mastery of dumplings, using meat and flour as the main ingredients. Among the delectable varieties, Khuushuur stands out as a fried dumpling, its flavorful filling made of minced mutton or beet. This mouthwatering delight takes center stage during the festive Naadam Festival, adding a special touch to the celebrations. Another delightful dumpling, Buuz, takes the form of steamed pockets filled with tender beef or mutton and is sometimes accompanied by vegetables, depending on individual preferences. Buuz holds a special place in the everyday life of Mongolians and takes on a significant role during the Lunar New Year festivities. It's a tradition for Mongolian families to prepare thousands of Buuz, warmly welcoming every guest who visits their home during this joyous occasion. Photo credit to Asiana Buddha restaurant
Noodle soup
Mongolian noodle soup holds a special place in the hearts and homes of the people. Unlike the common noodle soups found throughout Asia, Mongolian noodle soup boasts a unique and hearty broth made from fresh meat, paired with homemade noodles. This delightful combination is a staple in nearly every household, enjoyed on a daily basis. An equally delicious variation of this noodle soup includes dried meat, adding a delectable twist to the already flavorful broth. Whether prepared with fresh or dried meat, Mongolian noodle soup remains a cherished and comforting dish, representing the essence of Mongolian cuisine and the warmth of its culture.
Airag - fermented mare's milk
Airag, the renowned Mongolian drink crafted from fermented mare's milk, holds a special place in the hearts of the Mongolian people. It is no surprise that Airag was Genghis Khan's favorite beverage, as it offers a delightful blend of flavors and is rich in essential nutrients such as vitamins A, B, C, and calcium. Creating Airag is an art that is influenced by regional factors, including pasture and summer temperatures. As a result, the best Airag is said to hail from the Middle Gobi, Uvurkhangai, and Bulgan provinces, where the ideal conditions bring out its full potential. For anyone with the chance to taste Airag, it is an experience not to be missed. Savor the unique and refreshing flavor of this traditional Mongolian drink, and discover a part of Mongolia's rich cultural heritage that has stood the test of time.
Yogurt - traditionally made
Mongolians cherish the arrival of spring, as it brings the first dairy delight after the long, harsh winter – yogurt. This prized delicacy holds a special place in their culture, and they save the last yogurt as a dried version to use as a starter for the new year's batch. This ancient method ensures the healthiest yogurt, containing around 30 different types of beneficial bacteria, far surpassing the limited bacteria found in manufactured yogurt. With an abundance of milk sources from goats, sheep, cows, and even camels, Mongolians create a diverse array of delicious yogurt. Beyond yogurt, they skillfully process dairy to make various curds, Mongolian milk vodka, and delectable cheeses. Their early consumption of dairy contributes to their remarkable dental health. When visiting a nomadic family, indulging in their delightful yogurt is a must, especially savoring the unique camel yogurt amidst the majestic Gobi Desert. It's an experience that unveils the true essence of Mongolian culture and culinary traditions.
International delicacy in Ulaanbaatar
Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia, boasts a flourishing culinary scene that goes beyond traditional Mongolian cuisine. Over the years, the city has embraced a multicultural environment, offering a diverse range of international delicacies. Whether you're a local or a tourist, Ulaanbaatar invites you to embark on a culinary journey like no other. The city's dining landscape has expanded significantly, with various eateries serving up delectable international dishes alongside Mongolian favorites. From sizzling Korean BBQ to delicate Japanese sushi, aromatic Indian curry, comforting Italian pasta and pizza, flavorful Chinese noodles, mouthwatering Middle Eastern shawarma, classic American burgers, and indulgent French pastries—you'll find an array of global flavors waiting to delight your taste buds. Photo credit to Asiana Buddha restaurant