Kyrgyz Kymyz Soup (Fermented Mare's Milk Soup)
A traditional and invigorating soup made from kymyz (fermented mare's milk), often enriched with meat, vegetables, and herbs. It's known for its unique tangy flavor and health benefits.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Lamb or beef(cut into small cubes)
- 1 liter Kymyz (fermented mare's milk)(ensure it's fresh and good quality)
- 1 liter Water
- 1 large Onion(chopped)
- 2 medium Carrots(diced)
- 3 medium Potatoes(diced)
- 1 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black pepper(freshly ground)
- 0.5 cup Fresh dill(chopped, for garnish)
- 0.5 cup Fresh parsley(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a large pot, combine the meat, water, and half of the chopped onion. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the meat is tender. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface.
- 2
Add the diced carrots and potatoes to the pot. Continue to simmer for another 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- 3
While the vegetables are cooking, gently warm the kymyz in a separate pot over low heat. Do not boil, as this will curdle the milk. Stir in the remaining chopped onion.
💡 Tip: Warming the kymyz helps to mellow its tanginess and makes it easier to digest. - 4
Once the meat and vegetables are tender, carefully stir the warmed kymyz mixture into the soup pot. Add salt and pepper to taste.
💡 Tip: Stir gently to combine without breaking up the vegetables too much. - 5
Simmer the soup for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Do not let it boil.
- 6
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish generously with fresh chopped dill and parsley before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Kymyz can be an acquired taste. If you are new to it, you might want to start with a milder version or add a little less.
- ✓The quality of the kymyz is crucial for the final taste of the soup.
- ✓This soup is often served warm, but can also be enjoyed at room temperature.
🔄 Variations
- Some recipes include a small amount of flour or cornstarch mixed with kymyz to thicken the soup slightly.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead of water.