Kyrgyz Kymyz Koy Shurpa
A hearty and traditional Kyrgyz soup featuring tender lamb and root vegetables, enriched with the unique tang of kymyz (fermented mare's milk). This dish is a staple in nomadic cuisine, offering warmth and sustenance.

๐ง Ingredients
- 1 kg Lamb shoulder, bone-in, cut into large chunks
- 3 liters Water
- 2 large Onions, quartered
- 3 medium Carrots, peeled and cut into large chunks
- 4 medium Potatoes, peeled and cut into large chunks
- 2 medium Turnips, peeled and cut into large chunks
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper, freshly ground
- 0.25 cup Fresh dill, chopped
- 0.25 cup Fresh parsley, chopped
- 200 ml Kymyz (fermented mare's milk)
๐จโ๐ณ Instructions
- 1
In a large pot, combine the lamb chunks and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.
๐ก Tip: Skimming ensures a clear and clean broth. - 2
Add the quartered onions to the pot. Cover and simmer for 1.5 hours, or until the lamb is very tender.
๐ก Tip: Simmering for a long time allows the lamb to become fall-apart tender and its flavors to infuse the broth. - 3
Remove the lamb from the pot and set aside. Discard the onions. Strain the broth into a clean pot, discarding any solids.
๐ก Tip: Straining the broth will remove any small bones or impurities, resulting in a smoother soup. - 4
Return the strained broth to a simmer. Add the carrots, potatoes, and turnips. Season with salt and pepper.
๐ก Tip: Add the root vegetables in stages if they have different cooking times, but these should be similar. - 5
Cook the vegetables for about 20-25 minutes, or until tender. While the vegetables are cooking, shred or cut the lamb into bite-sized pieces.
๐ก Tip: Ensure vegetables are cooked through but not mushy. - 6
Return the shredded lamb to the pot. Stir in most of the chopped dill and parsley.
๐ก Tip: Adding herbs towards the end preserves their fresh flavor and aroma. - 7
Just before serving, gently stir in the kymyz. Do not boil the soup after adding the kymyz, as it can curdle.
๐ก Tip: Warming the kymyz slightly before adding can help prevent curdling, but avoid high heat. - 8
Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with the remaining fresh dill and parsley. Serve hot.
๐ก Tip: This soup is best enjoyed immediately after preparation.
๐ก Pro Tips
- โIf kymyz is unavailable, a small amount of plain yogurt or kefir can be used as a substitute for a similar tangy flavor, though it won't be authentic.
- โFor a richer flavor, you can brown the lamb pieces before adding water.
- โAdjust the amount of kymyz to your preference for tanginess.
โจ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add other root vegetables like parsnips or rutabaga.
- Include a bay leaf during the initial simmering of the lamb for added depth of flavor.
- A pinch of cumin can be added for a subtle warmth.