Turkmenistan might not make a lot of “best food” lists, but its cuisine is a treasure trove for travelers who love to explore new flavors. This Central Asian nation has an incredible blend of traditional nomadic dishes, hearty staples, and Soviet-inspired fare. From street snacks to grand feasts, there’s plenty for adventurous eaters to sink their teeth into.
Plov: Simple, Yet Satisfying
You can’t talk about food in Turkmenistan without mentioning plov. It’s the national dish. Made of rice, lamb, carrots, garlic, and a variety of spices, plov is the go-to comfort food for locals. Think of it as a Central Asian version of pilaf.
You’ll find it served at weddings, special occasions, and family gatherings. The best place to try it? Local restaurants. But if you’re lucky enough to get invited to a local’s home, that’s where you’ll find the most authentic version.
Shashlik: Turkmenistan’s Favorite BBQ
Shashlik is skewered and grilled meat, usually lamb or beef, but sometimes chicken. It’s marinated in spices and then roasted over a charcoal fire until it’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
While you can find shashlik at many restaurants, the tastiest often comes from street vendors. You’ll see small grills set up along roadsides and in markets across the country. These skewers are cheap, filling, and perfect for grabbing on the go.
Chorek: Traditional Turkmen Bread
Bread is an essential part of Turkmen meals, and chorek is their traditional flatbread. Made in clay ovens like tandoors, chorek is deliciously crispy on the outside but soft on the inside.
It’s commonly served as an accompaniment to meals, but you’ll also find it as a snack. Pair it with fresh local cheese or yogurt, and you’ve got yourself a simple yet satisfying snack.
Laghman: Central Asian Noodles
Laghman is a dish of hand-pulled noodles served with either fried meat and vegetables or in a soup. Influenced by neighboring countries like Uzbekistan and China, this dish is both hearty and flavorful.
The noodles are fresh, often made daily. You can find laghman in streetside cafes or more casual sit-down restaurants. If you love noodles, don’t skip this dish.
Turkmen Manty: Dumplings with a Punch
If you’re into dumplings, you’ll love manty. These steamed dumplings are filled with minced meat (usually lamb or beef), onions, and spices. The dough is soft, and the filling is juicy.
They are sometimes served with sour cream or a light vinegar sauce for extra flavor. You can find manty in traditional restaurants or small cafes. It’s the perfect choice if you’re craving something warm and hearty.
Pishme: Sweet Fried Dough
Every country has its own take on fried dough, and Turkmenistan’s contribution is pishme. These small, pillow-like doughs are fried until golden brown and sprinkled with powdered sugar. They’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Pishme is often enjoyed alongside tea as an afternoon snack and is particularly popular during celebrations. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, you can find these in local shops or markets.
Kazy: Sausage for the Bold
If you’re up for a more adventurous dish, try kazy. It’s a traditional sausage made from horse meat, with a concentrated smoky and gamey flavor. While horse meat may sound unusual to outsiders, it’s considered a delicacy in Turkmenistan.
You’ll mostly find kazy at local markets. Try it thinly sliced with bread for an authentic, bold Turkmen experience. This one’s for the food adventurers, but it’s definitely worth a taste.
Shorpa: Lamb Soup that Warms the Soul
Shorpa is a rich lamb soup packed with vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions. The broth is simple but full of flavor because it’s slow-cooked with high-quality lamb. This dish is hearty and filling, perfect for colder days.
It’s a common starter in restaurants, but you can also find it at many homes, especially in rural areas. If you can handle a bit of lamb fat in your soup, this is a must-try.
Where to Eat Shorpa
Look for small eateries where locals eat lunch. These places tend to serve the most authentic shorpa, made fresh in the kitchen. Pair it with some fresh bread, and you’ve got yourself a solid, hearty meal.
Gok Chuchvara: Hot Dumplings in Broth
Gok chuchvara is a lesser-known noodle soup, consisting of small dumplings floating in a clear broth. The dumplings are usually filled with meat and flavored with herbs. It’s light, warming, and perfect for anyone who loves broth-based dishes.
You’ll typically find this dish in small, family-run restaurants that focus on homemade meals. While not as well-known as other dishes, it’s definitely worth your consideration.
Turkmen Tea Culture
Like many Central Asian countries, Turkmenistan takes tea seriously. Green tea (“kak chai”) is the most popular and is a part of nearly every meal. It’s served without sugar, and locals will often drink it several times a day.
If you prefer something stronger, try chai chorni, which is black tea typically served with sugar cubes. Turkmen tea is often paired with dried fruits, nuts, and sweets. Drinking tea here is less about caffeine and more about the social experience.
Street Food: Cheap, Tasty, and Everywhere
Turkmenistan’s street food scene has a lot to offer for those on a budget or in a rush. Beyond shashlik, you’ll find breads, samsa (savory pastry), and fruits being sold in most local markets.
Samsa, for instance, is a puff pastry filled with meat or pumpkin. They’re baked in tandoor ovens and sold hot. If you want something quick to eat while exploring, these handheld snacks are your best bet.
Local Markets: The Heart of Food Culture
If you want to see locals in their element, head to the markets. Ashgabat’s Tolkuchka Bazaar, one of the largest in the country, is filled with stalls selling fresh produce, meats, spices, and snacks.
You could easily spend hours wandering through the market, sampling everything from cured meats to homemade bread. It’s a great way to try a bunch of different dishes without committing to a full meal at a restaurant.
Fine Dining in Turkmenistan
While street food and markets offer plenty of affordable options, there is a growing fine dining scene in cities like Ashgabat. High-end restaurants here often blend traditional Turkmen cuisine with international flavors. You can expect better presentation, more varied dishes, and a wider selection of drinks.
If you want to splurge, check out restaurants in upscale hotels, or visit dedicated Turkmen fine dining spots like “Akhal” or “Merdem” in Ashgabat. You’ll still find many classic Turkmen dishes on the menu, but with a more modern twist.
Travel Tips for Eating in Turkmenistan
1. Mind the Portions
Turkmen portions tend to be large. Locals consider it a sign of generosity. Don’t feel forced to finish everything, but be polite if someone serves you at their home.
2. Know the Basics
Russian is widely spoken, so learning basic food words like “choy” (tea), “khleb” (bread), or “mysa” (meat) will help smooth out your dining experience. Some restaurants may offer English menus but don’t count on it.
3. Be Respectful
If invited into a local’s home for dinner, it’s customary to bring a small gift. Everyone eats together, and there’s often a communal element to the meal, like sharing a large tray of plov.
4. Go for the Experience
Turkmenistan’s food is more than just what’s on the plate. It’s about the experience: sharing meals, drinking tea, and enjoying local hospitality. Whether you’re at a street-side stall or in a family kitchen, the warmth of Turkmen hospitality will make every bite that much better.
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