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Features of Mongolian food

The nomads that live in Mongolia sustain primarily from products that are derived from cattle, sheep, horses and yaks, which are domesticated. Meat is mostly cooked or used in soups and dumplings. The large percentage of animal fat in Mongolian diets helps the natives to withstand the cold and also work outdoors.

The milk and cream derived from these animals is used to make diverse beverages, cheese and other such products.

Some traditional dishes

Dairy products in Mongolia food variety differ greatly in terms of their taste. These products are called 'tsagaan idee' and include a lot of milk. The inclusion of milk denoted purity, kindness and unselfishness. Other ingredients include aaruul (dried curd) and urum (thick cream), Mongolian butter and kefir or soft yogurt.

Aaruul: It is believed by experts that this food item is the reason behind the strong teeth of Mongolian people. It is curdled milk that is dehydrated and dried. The great thing about this food item is that it never goes bad.

Airag: The national drink of Mongolia, this is primarily made during summers in Mongolia, especially in the rural regions. The drink is also popularly served during weddings, festivals and other special events. Some Mongolian people are known to consume about 3 liters in just one go.

Airag has an alcohol content of about 7% and should be consumed with caution. The tastiest versions of this drink originated from the Arkhangai, Bulgan and Ovorkhangai provinces. It improves pathogenic microbes in your body and ensures good health if consumed in moderation.

Khorhog: This item is made but cutting up sheep meat and baking it. Sometimes vegetables, pepper and salt are also added. The cooking method used here is one employed by soldiers during their camping times.

Boodog: This dish is usually made by removing the bowels and bones of large carcasses and then cooking it from the inside by putting in hot stones through the neck cavity, which is then sealed. The meat prepared in this fashion is tasty, tender and fragrant. You can even add pepper, salt and vegetables to this preparation as well.