Food & Drink

Turkmen cuisine is similar to that of the rest of Central Asia. The food is not heavy on spices but makes generous use of cottonseed oil. The primary food, pilaf, is cooked with rice, lamb, carrots, and onions. Often considered the national dish of Turkmenistan, pilaf is served at special occasions and celebrations.

Shurpa is a thick mutton soup with vegetables and served with a dollop of sour cream that you can try during Turkmenistan vacations. The fried dumplings manti and somsa contain different kinds of fillings, from pumpkin to ground meat. Some restaurants serve Russian delicacies.

Melon production in Turkmenistan contributes to the national economy. The country produces around 400 varieties of the fruit.

Bread is a staple food in the country. Different types of bread are eaten regularly. Meals and teas are served with corek, the local flatbread. Turkmen consider it disrespectful to mishandle bread or turn it upside down. They drink a lot of tea, and at all times of the day. Another popular beverage, chal, is fermented camel milk, which has a sour flavour. A salty yogurt drink called ayran, is served chilled along with meals in the summer months. Vodka is the most popular liquor among locals and priced affordably.