Kazakh cuisine, rich in history and tradition, offers a tantalizing experience for both the palate and the soul. To truly appreciate and prepare these delicious dishes, it helps to familiarize oneself with some key Kazakh words related to cooking and recipes. This article will guide you through essential vocabulary and phrases, ensuring you can navigate Kazakh recipes with ease and confidence.
Basic Cooking Terms
Understanding fundamental cooking terms is crucial when diving into any cuisine. Here are some essential Kazakh words you’ll encounter in recipes:
1. **Pishiru** (пісіру) – This means “to cook.” It’s a versatile term you’ll see often.
2. **Qaynatu** (қайнату) – This means “to boil.” It’s commonly used when preparing soups and stews.
3. **Qizdiru** (қыздыру) – This means “to heat.” It can refer to preheating an oven or heating oil in a pan.
4. **Tuz** (тұз) – This is the word for “salt.” An essential ingredient in many dishes.
5. **Mai** (май) – This means “oil” or “butter.” Kazakh cuisine often uses both, sometimes interchangeably.
Ingredients
Before you start cooking, it’s important to know the names of common ingredients. Here are some that you’ll frequently encounter:
1. **Et** (ет) – This is the word for “meat.” Given the significance of meat in Kazakh cuisine, this is a must-know term.
2. **Qoy Eti** (қой еті) – “Lamb meat.” Lamb is a staple in many traditional dishes.
3. **Siir Eti** (сиыр еті) – “Beef.” Another popular meat in Kazakh cooking.
4. **Tauyk** (тауық) – This means “chicken.”
5. **Balyk** (балық) – “Fish.” Although less common than meat, fish is still used in certain regions and dishes.
6. **Süt** (сүт) – This is the word for “milk.” Dairy products are integral to many recipes.
7. **Qaymaq** (қаймақ) – “Cream.” Often used in soups and desserts.
8. **Sary May** (сары май) – “Butter.” Essential for adding richness to dishes.
9. **Jumurtka** (жұмыртқа) – “Egg.” Used in various recipes, from main dishes to desserts.
10. **Un** (ұн) – This means “flour.” A key ingredient in many baked goods.
Cooking Utensils and Equipment
To effectively follow a recipe, you need to know the names of various cooking utensils and equipment. Here are some important ones:
1. **Qazan** (қазан) – This is a traditional Kazakh cooking pot, often used for making stews and soups.
2. **Keshe** (кесе) – A bowl, typically used for serving soups or salads.
3. **Tabak** (табақ) – This means “plate.”
4. **Qasik** (қасық) – “Spoon.” Essential for stirring and serving.
5. **Pishirifshak** (пішіргіш) – “Oven.” Used for baking and roasting.
6. **Kesish** (кескіш) – “Knife.” An indispensable tool in any kitchen.
7. **Taba** (таба) – “Pan.” Used for frying and sautéing.
Common Verbs in Kazakh Recipes
Understanding the verbs used in recipes is crucial for following instructions correctly. Here are some common verbs you will encounter:
1. **Aralastyru** (араластыру) – “To mix.” This verb is used when combining ingredients.
2. **Qosu** (қосу) – “To add.” You’ll see this verb when new ingredients are introduced.
3. **Kesu** (кесу) – “To cut.” Whether it’s vegetables or meat, this verb is essential.
4. **Tuuzu** (тұздау) – “To season.” This typically refers to adding salt or other spices.
5. **Qaynatyp Alu** (қайнатып алу) – “To bring to a boil.” Important for soups and stews.
6. **Quryu** (қуыру) – “To fry.” Often used for preparing meat or vegetables.
Measurement Terms
Recipes often include measurements, and understanding these terms is crucial for accuracy:
1. **Shayqasik** (шайқасық) – “Teaspoon.” Used for small measurements, especially spices.
2. **Asqqasik** (асқасық) – “Tablespoon.” Larger than a teaspoon, often used for liquids and semi-liquids.
3. **Stakan** (стакан) – “Glass” or “cup.” Used for measuring larger quantities.
4. **Gramm** (грамм) – “Gram.” A metric unit of weight.
5. **Kilogramm** (килограмм) – “Kilogram.” Equivalent to 1,000 grams.
Traditional Kazakh Dishes
Now that you’re familiar with the basics, let’s explore some traditional Kazakh dishes and the specific vocabulary associated with them:
Beshbarmak
Beshbarmak is a traditional Kazakh dish, often considered the national dish. It literally means “five fingers,” referring to the way it is traditionally eaten—by hand.
1. **Qoy Eti** (қой еті) – “Lamb meat.” The primary ingredient.
2. **Qamyr** (қамыр) – “Dough.” Used to make the noodles that accompany the meat.
3. **Sorpa** (сорпа) – “Broth.” The meat is boiled to create a rich broth.
4. **Piyaz** (пияз) – “Onion.” Often used as a garnish.
Kurt
Kurt is a traditional Kazakh dairy product, similar to dried cheese balls. It’s a popular snack and can also be used in cooking.
1. **Süt** (сүт) – “Milk.” The main ingredient.
2. **Tuz** (тұз) – “Salt.” Essential for the flavor and preservation.
3. **Qaymak** (қаймақ) – “Cream.” Sometimes added for richness.
Kazy
Kazy is a traditional sausage made from horse meat, a delicacy in Kazakh cuisine.
1. **At Eti** (ат еті) – “Horse meat.” The primary ingredient.
2. **Shuzhyk** (шұжық) – “Sausage.” The form in which the meat is prepared.
3. **Sary May** (сары май) – “Butter.” Often used in the preparation process.
Baursak
Baursak are traditional Kazakh fried doughnuts, often served with tea.
1. **Un** (ұн) – “Flour.” The main ingredient.
2. **Jumurtka** (жұмыртқа) – “Egg.” Used in the dough.
3. **Mai** (май) – “Oil.” Used for frying.
Cooking Techniques
Understanding cooking techniques is crucial for mastering any cuisine. Here are some techniques you’ll encounter in Kazakh cooking:
1. **Qaynatu** (қайнату) – “Boiling.” Often used for soups and stews.
2. **Quryu** (қуыру) – “Frying.” Used for meats and doughs.
3. **Buhte Pishiru** (бухте пісіру) – “Steaming.” A healthier cooking method for vegetables and dumplings.
4. **Qamyr Jasu** (қамыр жасау) – “Making dough.” Essential for dishes like Beshbarmak and Baursak.
5. **Sorpa Jazau** (сорпа жасау) – “Making broth.” Important for soups and stews.
Cooking Tips and Tricks
To make your Kazakh cooking experience smoother, here are some tips and tricks:
1. **Use Fresh Ingredients**: Fresh meat and dairy products are crucial for authentic flavor.
2. **Don’t Overcook**: Kazakh cuisine values the natural flavors of ingredients, so avoid overcooking.
3. **Season Generously**: Don’t be afraid to use salt, but do it in moderation.
4. **Practice Makes Perfect**: Traditional dishes like Beshbarmak may take a few tries to master, so keep practicing.
Conclusion
Cooking Kazakh dishes is a rewarding experience that allows you to explore a rich culinary tradition. By familiarizing yourself with these essential Kazakh words and phrases, you’ll be well-equipped to read recipes, follow instructions, and create delicious meals. So, don your apron, gather your ingredients, and embark on a culinary journey through Kazakhstan!
