Perhaps no other cuisine is as uniquely positioned to blend influences from its neighboring countries than Mongolian food. Sandwiched between Russia and China, Mongolia’s culinary scene takes inspiration from both, resulting in a fascinating fusion of flavors. The Russian influence is evident in the rich stews, hearty dumplings, and slow-cooked meats that are staples of Mongolian cuisine.
Meanwhile, the Chinese impact can be seen in the saucy stir-fries and noodle bowls that add a spicy kick to the menu. This blending of culinary traditions makes Mongolian cuisine a delightful mish-mash of flavors, textures, and presentation, ensuring there’s something for every palate.
20+ Popular Mongolian Recipes You Need To Try
Khuushuur – Meat Dumplings
Enjoying traditional Mongolian cuisine is not complete without trying the popular Khuushuur, a mouth-watering fried meat dumpling. The filling of juicy ground beef is carefully placed inside a pastry pocket, which is then deep-fried until it reaches a perfect golden and crispy texture.
Buuz
Discovering a flavorful alternative to fried dumplings is definitely possible with buuz, a dish that satisfies your cravings without compromising on taste. Delve into this culinary delight, where succulent meat-filled dumplings are gently steamed until they achieve a soft and juicy texture. Distinguishable from its authentic counterpart, which features mutton as the primary ingredient, the Western version of buuz is a more approachable blend of ground lamb and beef.
Bansh
Surprisingly, Mongolian cuisine may have earned a reputation for being predominantly meat dumplings. However, another popular option is Bansh, which shares similarities with the savory snack but boasts a thicker dough that’s boiled rather than steamed or fried. Serve these hot with a variety of accompaniments such as ketchup, hot sauce, creamy mayo – and/or a generous helping of mixed vegetables.
Tsuvian
Beyond the complexities of traditional Chinese cooking, the humble tsuvian noodle bowl is a flavorful one-pot meal that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. Don’t be discouraged by the idea of making homemade noodles – with just a few simple steps, you can create a delicious and authentic dish in no time. To begin, mix up a basic flour dough according to your preference, then roll it out and cut into long, thin strips.
The noodles are then simply added to the pan, where they cook alongside shredded beef and an assortment of colorful veggies.
Khorkhog – Authentic Mongolian Barbecue
Not only is Mongolian barbecue well-known in Western countries, but it also bears little resemblance to its authentic counterpart from Mongolia. In fact, the traditional way of preparing this dish is quite unique and might raise a few eyebrows. Instead of relying on conventional cooking methods, Mongolians use stones as a heat source. Yes, you read that right – stones are an integral ingredient in many traditional recipes.
To replicate this at home, start by heating your stones on a BBQ until they’re hot to the touch. Then, place them into a metal container with lamb or goat mutton and spiced vegetables. Allow the mixture to slow-cook for a couple of hours, and be prepared for an unforgettable culinary experience. The end result is tender, fall-off-the-fork meat that’s unlike anything you’ve ever tasted before.
Mongolian Beef
Hungry for a quick and delicious meal but don’t feel like cooking up a storm? This easy beef stir-fry recipe is the perfect solution, ready in just 30 minutes and ideal for a busy weeknight dinner. The combination of crispy textures and sweet flavors, along with the aromatics of ginger and garlic, will transport you to your favorite Chinese takeout restaurant without having to leave home or dig up stones for a Mongolian barbecue.
Mongolian Guriltai Shul Soup
Laden with a rich lamb broth, noodles, turnips, and carrots, Mongolian guriltai shul soup may have a long name but its ingredient list is surprisingly short. Don’t be misled by the simplicity of this dish; it’s actually loaded with tempting flavors thanks to the hearty meaty base broth and pungent spicy herb seasoning.
Mongolian Chicken
Not only can this delicious chicken be prepared in under 15 minutes, but its simplicity makes it an ideal choice for a quick and satisfying dinner. Stir-fried in a tangy soy-based sauce, the dish is equally impressive when served over steamed rice or noodles, offering a convenient alternative to more complicated meals.
For those following a low-carb diet, cauliflower rice provides a tasty substitute, while the recipe’s versatility allows it to be paired with almost any vegetables and a variety of sides.
Bantan
Under the guise of a hangover cure, this hearty soup has become a popular remedy for those looking to alleviate the symptoms of a wild night. Understanding its ingredients can help explain why it’s so effective at reviving both body and soul. Made with tender chunks of meat and small doughy dumplings, a bowl of this nourishing soup is sure to provide a much-needed boost after a long night of indulgence.
Mongolian Lamb
Lying at the heart of Mongolian lamb’s tender flavor is the carefully crafted marinade. By incorporating a small amount of baking soda into the piquant mixture, and allowing it to work its magic on your chosen cut of lamb overnight, you’ll be rewarded with an exceptionally delicious dish that simply falls apart.When combined with a sweet and spicy hoisin sauce, this delectable mixture is transformed into a truly unforgettable dinner experience that will undoubtedly leave you craving for more.
Gambir
Generally speaking, Gambir is a popular Indonesian dish that consists of a soft pancake made from a plain dough, lightly sweetened with sugar to add a hint of sweetness. This versatility is one of the reasons why people love Gambir, as it can be easily paired with various ingredients to suit different tastes and occasions.
Whether served with crispy bacon and scrambled eggs for breakfast, filled with fresh fruit for a light brunch, or even spooned over ice cream for a decadent dessert, Gambir’s adaptability makes it a treat that is suitable for any time of day.
Mongolian Donut Holes
Particularly charming, donut holes have captured the hearts of many with their irresistible charm and delectable taste. One of the reasons they’re so endearing is that they’re incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients such as flour, condensed milk, eggs, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt, you can whip up a batch in no time.
The key to achieving their signature crunchy exterior lies in deep-frying them to perfection, after which they’re rolled in sugar for an extra touch of sweetness. It’s worth noting, however, that even though these bite-sized treats may seem harmless, it’s still possible to overindulge – a lesson I learned the hard way when I attempted to cram 12 into my mouth at once.
Vegan Mongolian Beef
Contrary to popular belief, it’s entirely possible to savor a delicious vegan version of Mongolian ‘beef’, which may seem like an oxymoron at first. While the name itself might suggest the presence of actual beef, savvy vegans know that soy ‘meat’ or tofu can be easily substituted in this mouthwatering stir-fry without compromising on flavor.
Mongolian-Style Beef Crepes
Flavorful dinner options aren’t limited to just dinnertime. For those moments when you crave that same savory taste for lunch, consider whipping up these light and delicious Mongolian crepes.
Suutei Tsai (Millet and Green Milk Tea)
Elevating the humble milk tea to new heights, this traditional Mongolian drink is a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. With its rich toasted millet notes, grassy undertones from the green tea, and creamy texture provided by the milk, it’s no wonder this beverage has become an integral part of Mongolian culture, often served as a gesture of hospitality to visitors.
Whether enjoyed on a chilly night or while trekking across the steppes, milk tea is the perfect accompaniment for any adventure, its warmth and charm sure to transport you to a world of nomadic traditions and untamed landscapes.
Airag
Majestic in its uniqueness, airag is a brew that’s unlike any other. Made from fermented horse milk, it’s a must-try for those who dare to venture into the uncharted territory of culinary adventures. The fermentation process lends an edge to this drink, giving it a subtle alcoholic kick. Furthermore, airag can be distilled into a potent spirit known as mongol arkhi or milk liquor, which is sure to leave a lasting impression on even the most seasoned connoisseur.
Mongolian Beef and Spring Onions
Nourishing the palate with its rich flavors, this classic soy-flavored stir-fry is a staple of many cuisines. Featuring shredded beef as the main ingredient, it’s sautéed in a piquant Chinese-style sauce that adds depth to each bite. Packed with protein and served over a bed of fluffy rice, it makes for a satisfying and flavorful dinner option, perfect for those seeking a comforting meal.
Mongolian Beef Sloppy Joes
Globally, foodies are embracing innovative twists on traditional dishes. In this case, a Mongolian classic is reimagined with brilliant results. Ground beef is mixed with a sweet and spicy sauce, creating a delightful flavor profile that’s both familiar and exciting. The mixture is then piled onto hamburger buns, transforming the humble sloppy Joe into a satisfying meal for kids of all ages.
Mongolian Shrimp
Packed with flavor, these stir-fried shrimp offer a delicious combination of saucy, sweet, and spicy notes. Perfect for satisfying your cravings, this recipe is an ideal solution for those seeking a quick and easy takeout alternative that can be ready in mere minutes. Moreover, by opting for this healthier option, you’ll enjoy the satisfaction of a homemade meal without compromising on flavor or convenience.
Fish Curry
Known for its delicate balance of creamy and spicy notes, this rich curry boasts tender white fish as its main ingredient in a smooth, mild sauce. Crafted with coconut milk and an assortment of aromatic spices such as coriander, cumin, and turmeric, it presents a harmonious blend of flavors that evoke the essence of Indian and Far Eastern culinary traditions.
Mongolian Shrimp and Scallops
Yearning for something delicious and easy to prepare? In that case, this versatile dish made by lightly frying seafood with fragrant spices is an excellent choice. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests as a simple appetizer or serve it over fluffy rice or vegetables to create a more substantial meal, this recipe has got you covered.
Traditional Mongolian Foods (+ Recipe Collection)
Within this culinary journey through Mongolia, you’ll discover a treasure trove of delicious dishes that showcase the country’s love for rich stews, hearty dumplings, and slow-cooked meats. From traditional recipes to modern twists, get an authentic taste of Mongolia with these easy-to-follow recipes.
Instructions
Notably, choosing a personal favorite recipe is an excellent starting point. Next, meticulously gather and organize all necessary ingredients to ensure they are readily available for use. Once this has been accomplished, it’s time to prepare the dish, which should take no more than 30 minutes to complete.
