Traditional Mongolian cuisine is very rich and satisfying, using the meats and dairy products that are native to the lifestyle of the area. It takes influences from the cuisines of many neighboring countries, but with many factors that are uniquely Mongolian. Mongolian dishes are also traditionally very warm and hearty to fit with the cold climate of the area. Here are 20 of the most popular dishes of Mongolian cuisine.
Traditional Mongolian cuisine is very rich and satisfying, using the meatsand dairy products that are native to the lifestyle of the area. It takesinfluences from the cuisines of many neighboring countries, but with manyfactors that are uniquely Mongolian. Mongolian dishes are also traditionallyvery warm and hearty to fit with the cold climate of the area. Here are 20 ofthe most popular dishes of Mongolian cuisine.
1.Korkhog
This is a hearty Mongolian barbecue dish. It's made with lamb, carrots,potatoes, and onions that are cooked over smooth stones, which give a uniquefinish to the dish. It's very hearty and smoky and ideal for dinner on a coldnight.
2.Guriltai Shul
These are essentially noodles with a Mongolian twist. It's a combination ofnoodles, vegetables, and a fatty meat served in stock. The dish is heavy andvery filling, and combines several different flavors in a unique way.
3.Chanasan Mahk
This is a traditional breakfast dish that's very different from a westernbreakfast option. It consists of mutton dishes that are boiled in salty water,and can be served with sauces of your choice.
4.Gambir
This delectable dessert combines a variety of different flavors, as is verycommon in Mongolian cuisine. It's made like a pancake but is a dough-liketexture that contains butter and sugar. You can then opt to top it withchocolate, fruit, jam, or really anything you want.
5.Budaatai Kuurga
This is a Mongolian rice dish that makes a perfect side or can be served onits own. It's made with a shredded meat, traditionally either lamb or beef, andthen a vegetable mix that contains carrots, onions, bell pepper, and cabbage.
6.Tsuvian
This noodle stew is somewhat similar to Guriltai Shul in that it uses verysimilar ingredients - noodles, veggies, and of course, mutton or another fattymeat. However, in this dish the noodles are much more roughly cut, andeverything is served on a plate instead of in a stock.
7.Khuushur
These little dumplings are a staple of Mongolian culture and are eaten atall types of meals. They are made from satisfying, flaky dough that containsmutton or another heavy meat.
8.Qurut
This unique dish is made from drained yogurt or sour milk that has been sundried into a biscuit. They are usually eaten as a dessert and often are servedwith butter as well. They are very heavy and satisfying.
9.Boodog
The Boodog is a traditional Mongolian roast that's a staple of theirculture. It is a whole goat that is opened and cooked with hot stones, similarto the ones used in Korkhog. However, the stones are placed inside the goat tocook it. The goat is then filled with potatoes and onions.
10.Buuz
These are another type of dumpling that are very popular in localrestaurants in Mongolia. They are made from a soft dough and filled with muttonor another rich meat. They are usually steamed and make a great appetizer.
11.Airag
This is one of the most popular beverages in Mongolia. It is fermentedmare's milk and it is slightly alcoholic. It is very tangy and nutritious andpairs well with the heavy flavors of other Mongolian dishes
12.Boortsog
These are rich, delicious butter cookies that are served as dessert. Theyare a thick, fluffy pastry that can be served with honey or other toppings ifyou prefer. This dessert is a good contrast to the meat flavors of Mongolianmain dishes.
13.Orom
Orom is a form of clotted cream and can be made from many different types ofmilk. It is very rich and is often spread over bread or paired with jam as abreakfast item or dessert.
14.Mutton kebabs
Since mutton is a staple in many Mongolian dishes, it is no surprise thatmutton kebabs are very popular among locals. This classic food is often foundfrom street vendors and at festivals in Mongolia
15.Ul Boov
This is a soft cake that is made with a flaky, golden exterior and thenfilled with sweet cream. It is about the size of a cookie and makes anexcellent dessert.
16.Five Fingers
This meal isn't for the faint of heart, but it's incredibly filling andsatisfying. It's a stew where all parts of a lamb are cooked together, andtraditionally, the parts of the lamb that you eat depends on your place in thefamily. Since it's truly every part of the lamb, you could end up eatinganything from a heart to a stomach to an eyeball!
17.Uuz
This is a celebratory dish that consists of the back of a mutton. It's verythick and rich and is usually full of fat. It's typically cooked with a flamesimilar to a blowtorch instead of in an oven.
18.Bantan
This is another type of soup that is popular in Mongolia. It contains lumpsof flour, meat, and onion rings. This dish is traditionally served to childrensince it is mild and easy to eat.
19.Eezgii
This is a dried mass of cheese that is often served as a side dish or asnack. It's very light and somewhat sweet. It's made by over-curdling cheeseuntil the liquid is gone and it has turned to a golden color.
20.Suutei Tsai
This beverage is a Mongolian version of milk tea. It is served in a bowl andis paired with most meals in Mongolia. It's lightly salted, which is verydifferent than the preparation of most milk teas.
