Must-Try Kazakh Dishes for Food Lovers
- Aya Basha
- Aug 19
- 5 min read
Kazakhstan is an ideal destination to visit because it is a place that a traveler with an interest in tasting the culture would not regret visiting. Having the reputation of steppes, the traditions of nomadic life, and the friendly welcome, Kazakhstan also has a cuisine that can tell about centuries of history and way of life. When you are going to visit a country and want to have a taste of the original flavours, then there are a number of Must-Try Kazakh Dishes that will provide you with a touch of the heritage of the country. And the most wonderful? When you book Kazakhstan packages with reliable travel agents such as Go Kite Travel, you can easily plan your trip, so that you do not miss the cultural sites and food delicacies.
Here are The Must-Try Kazakh Dishes for Food Lovers

The Abundant History of Kazakh Cuisine
Kazakh cuisine is very associated with nomadism. In the past, the Kazakhs used livestock as their daily food source and thus the cuisine contains meat, dairy, and filling grains. However, nowadays, these dishes not only serve to reflect the local traditions, but also provide the visitors with an opportunity to get to know the true taste of Central Asia. To a food enthusiast, sampling of these meals is as important as visiting the sceneries and monuments in Kazakhstan.
Beshbarmak The National Dish
There is one dish that you simply cannot leave Kazakhstan without trying and that is Beshbarmak which is commonly referred to as the king of Kazakh cuisine. The name Beshbarmak literally means five fingers, and is usually eaten by hand. It is a boiled meat (most often lamb, beef or horse) on a bed of flat noodles, with an onion broth on top.
Beshbarmak is a cultural experience, not a dish because it is one of the most iconic Must-Try Kazakh Dishes. It is commonly used in celebrations and family get-together and is considered to be a sign of hospitality and unity. When honeymooners or families are going on tour, eating this dish together is a unique and special way to connect with the locals and experience Kazakh culture.
Kazy -Conventional Horse Meat Sausage
Kazy is another staple food of Kazakhstan, being a delicious sausage based on the meat of a horse. Although this might seem strange to certain people, in Kazakhstan horse meat is a delicacy and is cooked very carefully. Seasoned, encased, and boiled, the sausage has a rich, savory flavor that works well with bread or noodles.
Kazy goes well with celebratory foods and may be served with Beshbarmak as well. It is among the most original Must-Try Kazakh Dishes which provides the travelers with the idea of the nomadic way of life which influenced the development of the national cuisine.
Shashlik- Grilled Perfection
Shashlik is heaven to the lovers of grilled foods. These sticks of marinated meat, normally lamb, chicken or beef are grilled over an open fire, making them smoky, tender morsels that are full of flavour. Shashlik is a common street food in Kazakhstan and is usually accompanied by fresh salads, pickled vegetables, flat bread.
It can be prepared in a local eatery, or at a fine-dining restaurant, but Shashlik is one of the most famous Must-Try Kazakh Dishes which travelers cannot stop loving. It is a relaxed, tasty dish to be consumed outdoors, particularly in busy markets.
Baursak The Sweet Bread Treat
Baursak, fluffy pieces of fried dough, are the best complement to any Kazakh meal, they might be compared with donuts. Golden brown and lightly sweetened, Baursak is typically served on occasions, weddings and holidays. When accompanied by tea, jam or honey these small snacks serve as a warm and cozy addition to any meal.
Being one of the lighter and yet popular Must-Try Kazakh Dishes, Baursak will suit well both the sweet-toothed travellers or those who just like to taste the local breads of different countries of the world.
Kumis- The Exclusive Drink
To have an authentic Kazakh experience, a visitor has to taste Kumis, a traditional beverage which is mare milk that has fermented. Kumis is slightly tangy, fizzy, refreshing, and it is also culturally significant. Nomadic tribes have eaten it for centuries as a nutritional and medicinal supplement.
Although it might be an acquired taste to some, Kumis is the icon of the Kazakh culture, and one of the most intriguing Must-Try Kazakh Dishes in liquid form.
Lagman A Central Asian Specialty
Lagman is a filling noodle soup that is not only popular in Kazakhstan, but throughout Central Asia. The noodles hand-pulled are mixed with stir-fried vegetables, lamb, and a tasty broth, making it a filling but also a delicious meal. Lagman also has different versions such as soupy and dry, which makes it flexible to the taste.
Foodies who are on the hunt of a comfort food with strong flavors will be pleased to know that Lagman is one of the most fulfilling Must-Try Kazakh Dishes on their trip.
Pilaf (Plov) A Hearty Staple
Plov, which is a rice dish prepared with meat, carrots, onions, and spices is also a favorite in Kazakhstan. Plov is a social meal cooked in a large cauldron known as a kazan that is traditionally shared at celebrations and other events. Another delicacy of Kazakh cuisine is its aromatic flavor and delicious taste.
Anyone who likes one-pot meals will be impressed by Plov, a hearty, unforgettable dish that is part of the common culinary heritage of Central Asia.
Conclusion
The country of Kazakhstan is so much more than endless steppes and beautiful scenery, as it is also a food paradise to explore by those who like to experiment with food. Whether it is the national dish Beshbarmak, such delicacies as Kazy, soft and sweet treats such as Baursak, or hearty meals such as Lagman and Plov, there are hundreds of Must-Try Kazakh Dishes to be tried and tested. Every plate is a narrative of nomadic culture, community, and hospitality, so every mouthful is a cultural experience.
In order to get the full experience of this tour of tastes, one must better organize his trip with the professionals. By contacting Go Kite Travel, you can book Kazakhstan packages and guarantee that your vacation is not only a series of tours but also a selection of restaurants with the best food in the country. Your travels can be full of food experiences in both populated cities and usual villages.
That is why, be it your passion about food, an adventurer, or a person just interested in the original cuisines, Kazakhstan welcomes you to explore its cuisine diversity. These are the Must-Try Kazakh Dishes that will not only make your taste buds happy but also leave the indelible memories of an exotic travel experience.
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