Mongolia is a land of vast landscapes and rich traditions. But one of its most underrated aspects? The food! Mongolian cuisine doesn’t get as much attention as it should. With intense flavors, comforting textures, and a lot of meat, you’ll find the food in Mongolia both simple and satisfying.
This guide will take you through the best local dishes and where to find them in some must-visit restaurants. Here’s where to eat like a local and try authentic Mongolian cuisine.
Mongolian Traditional Dishes You Need to Try
Khuushuur
Khuushuur is like a fried dumpling stuffed with meat. You’ll find it everywhere in Mongolia: from street markets to high-end restaurants. It’s usually stuffed with mutton or beef and fried to crispy perfection. Some may even add onions or garlic for extra flavor, but the meat is the star.
Looking for a quick snack? Grab one from a street vendor. Prefer a full meal? Almost every restaurant serves it. The best part: it’s cheap and delicious.
Buuz
Buuz are steamed dumplings, and every Mongolian household has their own preparation. Expect a meaty filling (usually mutton) wrapped in a soft and chewy dough. They’re often served during the Mongolian Lunar New Year, but fortunately, you can find them year-round.
They’re slightly heavier than Khuushuur because they’re steamed instead of fried, but they’re just as tasty.
Tsuivan
Tsuivan is a noodle dish that will fill you up. It’s made with fried meat (usually mutton or beef), vegetables, and thick noodles. What makes it special is that everything gets cooked in the same pot, and the noodles absorb the flavors from the meat and veggies.
This dish is a staple in everyday Mongolian life, and it’s hearty enough to keep you warm during colder months.
Boodog
Boodog is not your average BBQ. The process is a bit more extreme. Traditionally, a whole marmot is stuffed with hot stones and meat, then cooked from the inside out. You won’t see this everywhere, but if you can find it, be ready for a unique experience. It’s usually reserved for special occasions.
If you’re into food that’s as much about the process as it is about taste, then boogog is something you should try.
Airag
Airag isn’t a dish, but it’s an integral part of Mongolian cuisine. It’s fermented mare’s milk, and yes, that means it’s slightly alcoholic. Airag is tangy, kind of fizzy, and definitely an acquired taste. Still, when you’re in Mongolia, you can’t miss out on this quintessential beverage.
Most hosting families in the countryside will offer you a glass—it’s tradition! Even if it’s not your favorite flavor, respect the custom and give it a shot.
Top Street Foods to Try
Khorhog
Khorhog is another example of Mongolian BBQ, cooked using hot stones. Unlike Boodog, this dish isn’t as extreme; it uses mutton and vegetables cooked in the same pot with stones to distribute the heat evenly.
The result is a tender, flavorful stew. It’s often eaten during picnics or outdoor gatherings. If you want to try this, you’ll either have to travel to the countryside or find a street vendor that knows how to make it.
Shorlog
Shorlog is Mongolian shashlik, a skewered meat similar to the kebabs you might find in other countries. The difference lies in the seasoning, which is usually just salt and pepper, allowing the natural flavor of the meat to shine through.
Street vendors grill Shorlog over an open flame, and they’re sometimes served with a side of salad. Simple but incredibly tasty.
Dried Meat (Borts)
In Mongolia, drying meat is a way of preserving it for the winter months. Borts is often rehydrated and added to soups, but in its dried form, it’s also eaten as a snack, usually with tea.
You’ll likely find it in smaller towns or on road trips through the countryside. Try it for a truly Mongolian experience.
Top Restaurants to Try Authentic Mongolian Cuisine
Hana Restaurant – Ulaanbaatar
If you’re in Ulaanbaatar, Hana Restaurant offers a wide variety of traditional Mongolian dishes, from Buuz to Tsuivan. The ambiance is cosy, and the prices are reasonable. Warning: it’s popular, so get there early or make a reservation.
The atmosphere is welcoming, and you’ll get the chance to taste traditional dishes with a little modern twist.
Modern Nomads – Multiple Locations
Modern Nomads is a well-known restaurant chain in Mongolia that aims to give you a taste of traditional recipes but in a contemporary setting. You’ll find all the must-tries here: Khuushuur, Buuz, and even Airag during some seasons.
This is a great place to get introduced to Mongolian cuisine, especially if you’re looking for an English menu!
Altai Mongolian Grill – Ulaanbaatar
For something fresh, check out Altai Mongolian Grill. It’s a buffet-style restaurant, meaning you get to choose your ingredients from the fresh selection of meats and veggies, and then they grill it up before your eyes.
It’s a more modern take, but still worthy if you’re into grilled BBQ-style food.
Narnii Guur Restaurant – Ulaanbaatar
If you’re looking for a slightly hidden gem, head to Narnii Guur. The menu here is packed with hearty, traditional dishes. Think Khuushuur, Tsuivan, and Khorhog.
The atmosphere is casual, and you’ll find mostly Mongolian locals eating here. It’s a true local experience.
Tips for Finding Authentic Mongolian Food
Look for Places Full of Locals
As with any country, a good rule of thumb is to eat where the locals eat. If you see a restaurant packed with locals, there’s a high chance the food is both affordable and authentic.
Especially in places like Ulaanbaatar, sticking to local spots instead of touristy chains can help you experience real Mongolian cuisine.
Visit Markets for Quick Street Food
For street food, markets are a great option. Naran Tuul Market in Ulaanbaatar is one of the largest and offers plenty of local food stalls. You can try Khuushuur, Buuz, and even Borts here.
Remember that street food here is usually fresh and fast, so if you’re in a rush or just want a snack, hit the markets.
Don’t Be Afraid to Travel to the Countryside
If you want to try some of the more unique dishes, like Boodog or Khorhog, you might need to venture outside the city. Mongolian families in the countryside often prepare these dishes for visitors, especially during special occasions.
Consider staying in a traditional Ger, and you might end up getting invited to a feast.
Final Thoughts
Eating like a local in Mongolia is easy and extremely satisfying. Whether you’re a fan of BBQ-style dishes like Khorhog and Shorlog or prefer something hearty like Tsuivan, the country has plenty to offer.
Don’t forget to sip on some Airag while you’re at it! Experience the culture, and taste the flavors that have sustained the nomadic Mongolian lifestyle for centuries.
Leave a reply