10 Best Street Foods in Almaty That You Should Definitely Try

Attention, food lovers! Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure through the vibrant streets of Almaty? In this blog post, we’ll be delving into the mouthwatering world of the best street foods in Almaty.

From our last visit to this place, we learned that Almaty is a haven for food enthusiasts seeking a taste of local delights. The city’s vibrant streets are lined with food stalls and vendors, each offering a unique gastronomic experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a curious foodie, fasten your seatbelts and prepare to immerse yourself in the flavorful world of the best street foods in Almaty

Join us as we navigate through the bustling markets and hidden alleyways to discover the most tantalizing street foods that Almaty has to offer. Get ready to indulge your senses and treat your taste buds to a culinary journey like no other.

Best Street Foods in Almaty

1. Shashlik

Shashlik is a mouthwatering dish that holds a special place in the hearts and palates of Almaty’s street food enthusiasts. It consists of skewered and grilled pieces of marinated meat, typically lamb or beef.

The meat is expertly seasoned with a blend of spices, herbs, and sometimes lemon juice, allowing the flavors to infuse and create a tantalizing aroma.

The skewers are then grilled over an open flame, imparting a smoky char and adding depth to the taste. The result is tender, juicy, and flavorful pieces of meat that are simply irresistible.

Shashlik is often served with traditional bread, fresh vegetables, and tangy sauces, elevating the dining experience and making it a favorite choice for locals and visitors alike.

2. Lagman

Lagman is a hearty and satisfying noodle dish that showcases the diverse culinary influences of Central Asia. It is a delightful combination of hand-pulled noodles, tender meat, and a medley of vegetables, all cooked in a flavorful broth.

The noodles are made from scratch, giving them a unique texture that complements the other ingredients. The meat, typically beef or lamb, is cooked to perfection and adds richness to the dish.

Vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, onions, and tomatoes are often added, lending their vibrant colors and distinct flavors. The broth, infused with aromatic spices and herbs, ties everything together, resulting in a comforting and flavorsome bowl of lagman.

Whether enjoyed as a quick street food snack or a satisfying meal, lagman is a beloved dish that showcases the culinary heritage of Almaty and satisfies the taste buds of locals and tourists alike.

3. Beshbarmak

Beshbarmak, which translates to “five fingers” in Kazakh, is a traditional and iconic dish that holds a special place in Almaty’s culinary landscape. It is a celebratory dish often served during festivals and special occasions, as well as a beloved street food option.

Beshbarmak consists of boiled meat, typically lamb or beef, served on a bed of tender homemade noodles. The meat is cooked slowly until it becomes incredibly tender and flavorful, and the noodles are handmade, adding a rustic touch to the dish.

The combination of meat and noodles is traditionally served with a generous amount of rich broth and accompanied by onions and herbs, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Beshbarmak is a symbol of hospitality and togetherness, as it is often enjoyed communally, with friends and family gathering around a large platter to savor the dish.

Its comforting and hearty nature makes it a beloved street food option, allowing locals and visitors to experience the rich culinary traditions of Almaty.

4. Samsa

Samsa is a delectable and aromatic pastry that is a staple of Almaty’s street food scene.

These triangular pastries are made from flaky dough, which is traditionally filled with a mixture of minced meat, onions, and a blend of fragrant spices such as cumin and coriander.

The pastries are baked until golden brown, creating a crisp exterior that gives way to a flavorful and savory filling. Samsa is a popular grab-and-go snack that is perfect for a quick bite while exploring the streets of Almaty.

Its warm and inviting aroma often wafts through the air, enticing passersby to indulge in its deliciousness.

Samsa is a favorite among locals and tourists, providing a satisfying combination of textures and flavors that make it an irresistible street food treat.

5. Baursak

Baursak is a delightful deep-fried dough treat that holds a special place in Almaty’s street food culture. These small, golden-brown pieces of dough are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.

Baursak is often enjoyed as a snack or accompaniment to meals. It is made from a simple dough mixture consisting of flour, yeast, salt, and water, which is shaped into small balls or triangles and deep-fried until they achieve a beautiful golden color.

The result is a delightful combination of textures, with a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior. Baursak is often served warm and dusted with powdered sugar, adding a touch of sweetness.

It is a beloved street food item that can be found in local markets, food stalls, and even served during special occasions.

The simplicity and comforting nature of baursak make it a popular choice for locals and visitors alike, providing a satisfying and delicious taste of Almaty’s street food scene.

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6. Manty

Manty is a beloved traditional dish that holds a special place in the culinary heritage of Almaty. These dumplings are made from a delicate dough, which is filled with a savory mixture of minced meat, onions, and spices.

The dough is skillfully folded into small, pleated pockets and steamed to perfection. The result is a delightful combination of tender dough and a flavorful meat filling.

Manty can be enjoyed with a variety of meats, including beef, lamb, or a combination of both, allowing for a range of taste experiences. They are often served with a dollop of sour cream or a tangy tomato sauce, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Manty is a popular street food option, loved by locals and visitors alike. Its satisfying nature, flavorful filling, and unique presentation make it a must-try dish when exploring the culinary delights of Almaty.

7. Plov

Plov, also known as pilaf, is a fragrant and aromatic rice dish that is deeply ingrained in the culinary traditions of Almaty.

This hearty and flavorful dish features long-grain rice cooked with tender meat, usually lamb or beef, and a medley of vegetables and spices.

The rice absorbs the flavors of the meat and spices, creating a rich and satisfying taste. Plov is often prepared in large quantities, making it a perfect choice for communal gatherings and celebrations.

The dish is cooked in a special Kazan, a large cast-iron pot, which adds a unique touch to the cooking process.

Plov is known for its beautiful presentation, with the rice and meat artfully arranged in layers, topped with caramelized onions, and garnished with herbs and dried fruits.

Each bite of plov is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, making it a quintessential street food dish in Almaty.

8. Samsalyk

Samsalyk is a traditional and flavorful sausage that has a special place in Almaty’s culinary landscape. This cured sausage is made from a mixture of ground meat, typically beef or lamb, combined with fat, spices, and herbs.

The mixture is stuffed into casings and left to cure and develop its distinct flavors. Samsalyk is known for its rich and savory taste, which is enhanced by the aromatic spices and herbs used in its preparation.

It is often enjoyed sliced thinly and served as an appetizer or added to various dishes for an extra burst of flavor. Samsalyk is a versatile ingredient that adds depth and complexity to the local cuisine.

Whether enjoyed on its own or incorporated into other dishes, this flavorful sausage is a must-try street food in Almaty.

9. Kurt

Kurt is a unique and traditional dairy product that holds a special place in the culinary traditions of Almaty. It is a type of dried cheese made from fermented cow’s or sheep’s milk.

The milk is curdled, and the curds are pressed and shaped into small balls or cubes. These cheese pieces are then air-dried and aged, resulting in a hard and crumbly texture.

Kurt has a tangy and slightly salty flavor, with hints of acidity from the fermentation process. It is often enjoyed as a snack on its own or added to dishes for an extra burst of flavor and texture.

Kurt is a versatile ingredient that can be grated, crumbled, or even melted to enhance the taste of various dishes. Its unique taste and texture make it a popular street food item in Almaty, providing a distinct and enjoyable culinary experience.

10. Echpochmak

Echpochmak is a traditional savory pastry that is popular in Almaty and throughout Kazakhstan. This delicious hand-held treat features a flaky and buttery crust, filled with a mixture of seasoned ground meat, onions, and potatoes.

The filling is cooked until tender and flavorful, and the pastry is baked until golden and crispy. Echpochmak is often enjoyed as a quick and satisfying snack, perfect for on-the-go eating.

Its convenient size and delicious taste make it a popular choice among locals and visitors. The combination of the savory filling and the buttery pastry creates a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.

Echpochmak is a versatile dish that can be found in local markets, and street food stalls, and even served during special occasions and celebrations. It is a beloved street food option that showcases the rich culinary heritage of Almaty.

Conclusion – Best Street Foods in Almaty

In conclusion, the streets of Almaty offer a culinary adventure like no other, with the best street foods tantalizing your taste buds at every turn.

From the mouthwatering shashlik to the hearty beshbarmak, the diverse flavors and aromas of Almaty’s street foods will leave you craving for more. Don’t miss out on the savory samsa, the crispy baursak, and the delightful manty.

With each bite, you’ll experience the rich culinary heritage and the local touch that makes Almaty’s street foods truly special.

So, grab a plate, join the locals, and immerse yourself in the flavorful journey through the best street foods in Almaty.

FAQs – Best Street Foods in Almaty

What are the must-try street foods in Almaty?

When exploring the vibrant streets of Almaty, don’t miss out on the mouthwatering shashlik, flavorful lagman, hearty beshbarmak, savory samsa, crispy baursak, delightful manty, and fragrant plov.

Where can I find the best street foods in Almaty?

For an authentic street food experience, head to the bustling local markets, such as Zelyony Bazaar or Barakholka, where you’ll find an array of food stalls offering these delectable dishes.

Are the street foods in Almaty safe to eat?

Yes, the street foods in Almaty are generally safe to eat. It’s always a good idea to choose vendors with a high turnover of food to ensure freshness and to observe proper hygiene practices.

Can I find vegetarian or vegan street food options in Almaty?

While many traditional street foods in Almaty include meat, you can also find vegetarian and vegan options like vegetable lagman, stuffed peppers, or fresh salads.

How much do street foods in Almaty cost?

The prices of street foods in Almaty vary depending on the dish and the location. On average, you can expect to spend around 500 to 2000 Kazakhstani Tenge for a satisfying street food meal.

Are street foods in Almaty spicy?

Some street foods in Almaty, like lagman or shashlik, may have a spicy kick, but not all of them are spicy. It’s best to ask the vendor about the spice level before ordering if you have a low tolerance for spiciness.

Can I find street foods in Almaty throughout the year?

Yes, street foods are available in Almaty year-round. However, keep in mind that certain dishes may be more seasonal, depending on the availability of ingredients. So, it’s always a good idea to check for specific dishes during the appropriate seasons.