Guriltai Shul (Mongolian Noodle Soup)
Guriltai Shul is a hearty and traditional Mongolian noodle soup, known for its comforting warmth and simple yet flavorful ingredients. This dish typically features tender mutton or beef, vegetables, and thick noodles in a savory broth, reflecting the practical and resourceful nature of Mongolian nomadic cuisine.

🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Mutton or Beef(fatty cut, cut into strips or bite-sized chunks)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 1 large Onion(sliced thinly or diced)
- 2 medium Carrots(peeled and chopped)
- 2 medium Potatoes(peeled and diced)
- 1 medium Turnip(diced (optional))
- 2 cloves Garlic(minced (optional))
- 2 liters Water or Beef Broth
- 10 oz Thick Asian Noodles(fresh or dried (e.g., Udon))
- Salt(to taste)
- Black Pepper(to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Cumin(ground (optional))
- Caraway Seeds(to taste (optional))
- 2 Green Onions(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a large, deep pot or wok over medium-high heat.
💡 Tip: Using a fatty cut of meat will add more flavor to the soup. - 2
Add the sliced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Add the carrots and turnip (if using) and stir-fry until they begin to soften.
- 3
Add the meat to the pot and stir-fry until browned on all sides. If using softer vegetables, add them now.
- 4
Season with salt, pepper, cumin, and caraway seeds (if using). Stir well to combine the flavors.
💡 Tip: The initial frying of meat and vegetables is crucial for developing the soup's aroma. - 5
Pour in the water or beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the meat is tender.
- 6
Add the noodles to the simmering soup and continue to cook according to noodle package directions, usually about 5-10 minutes, until they are tender.
- 7
Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.
💡 Tip: Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Using fatty meat is essential for a rich flavor.
- ✓The initial sautéing of meat and vegetables is key to developing the soup's aroma.
- ✓Adjust vegetables and seasonings to your preference.
- ✓Japanese Udon noodles are a good substitute for traditional thick Asian noodles.
🔄 Variations
- Add other vegetables like cabbage or mushrooms.
- Use different types of noodles if thick Asian noodles are unavailable.
- Incorporate a bay leaf or thyme for added aroma during simmering.