John Myers
Introduction: Mongolian Cuisine and Mutton
Mongolian cuisine is a unique reflection of the country’s nomadic culture and harsh climate. With limited access to vegetables and fruits, meat, particularly mutton, is the main ingredient in most Mongolian dishes. Mutton is preferred over other meats as it is readily available and can withstand the extreme temperatures and conditions of the Mongolian steppes.
The Traditional Mongolian Dish: Khorkhog
Khorkhog is a traditional Mongolian dish made by cooking mutton with hot stones in a tightly covered pot. The stones are first heated in a fire until they are red hot, and then they are placed into the pot with the meat and water. The pot is then sealed and left to cook for about an hour. The result is a tender and flavorful meat dish with a smoky taste. Khorkhog is usually served with boiled potatoes and vegetables, and it is a popular dish during special occasions such as weddings and other celebrations.
Stewed Mutton: Boortsog and Bansh
Boortsog and Bansh are two popular Mongolian dishes made with stewed mutton. Boortsog is a type of deep-fried dough that is commonly eaten as a snack or dessert in Mongolia. It is often served with a bowl of hot milk tea and a plate of stewed mutton. Bansh, on the other hand, is a type of dumpling filled with minced mutton and vegetables. It is usually served with a spicy tomato sauce or a bowl of clear soup.
Spicy Delicacy: Buuz, Khuushuur, and Tsuivan
Buuz, Khuushuur, and Tsuivan are three spicy delicacies made with mutton that are popular in Mongolia. Buuz is a type of steamed dumpling filled with minced mutton and onions, and it is often served with a side of hot chili sauce. Khuushuur is a deep-fried pastry filled with minced mutton and onions, and it is usually served with a side of sour cream. Tsuivan is a stir-fry dish made with thinly sliced mutton, noodles, and vegetables. It is often flavored with chili pepper and other spices.
Mutton Soup: Guriltai Shul and Uuts
Guriltai Shul and Uuts are two types of mutton soup that are commonly consumed in Mongolia. Guriltai Shul is a clear broth made with mutton bones, vegetables, and spices. It is often served with a side of boiled mutton and rice. Uuts, on the other hand, is a thick soup made with mutton, potatoes, carrots, and onions. It is usually eaten with a slice of bread or a bowl of rice.
Desserts with Mutton: Khailmag and Urum
Khailmag and Urum are two desserts made with mutton that are popular in Mongolia. Khailmag is a type of custard made with mutton fat, milk, and sugar. It is usually served cold with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Urum is a type of sweet rice pudding made with mutton meat and milk. It is often flavored with cardamom and saffron and served with a side of dried fruits and nuts.
