Discover how to make Airag, a traditional Central Asian fermented mare’s milk drink. This unique alcoholic beverage, known for its tangy flavor and rich history, is a staple in Mongolian cuisine. Learn the step-by-step recipe to prepare Airag at home, including tips on fermentation and serving. Perfect for those interested in authentic cultural beverages and traditional brewing methods.

Ingredients:

- Fresh Mare’s Milk: 2 liters (or substitute with cow’s milk if mare’s milk is unavailable)

- Kumis Starter Culture: 1 tablespoon (available from specialty stores or online)

- Water: 1 cup

- Sugar: 2 tablespoons (optional, for added sweetness)

Instructions:

Prepare the Milk: Pour the fresh mare’s milk into a clean fermentation vessel. If using cow’s milk, ensure it's well pasteurized.

Add Starter Culture: Dissolve the kumis starter culture in a small amount of water. Add it to the milk and stir well.

Fermentation: Cover the vessel with a clean cloth and leave it at room temperature (20-25°C / 68-77°F) for 24-48 hours. Stir the mixture occasionally.

Check the Fermentation: Taste the Airag after 24 hours. It should have a slightly sour, tangy flavor with a mild effervescence. For a stronger flavor and more alcohol content, let it ferment for up to 48 hours.

Strain and Store: Once fermented to your liking, strain the Airag through a fine mesh to remove any curds. Transfer the liquid to clean bottles and refrigerate.

Serve: Serve chilled in small glasses. Airag can be enjoyed as a refreshing drink or paired with traditional Central Asian dishes.

Tips:

- Ensure all equipment is thoroughly sanitized to avoid contamination.

- Adjust fermentation time based on taste preferences and ambient temperature.

- For a more authentic taste, seek out mare’s milk or a specialized kumis starter culture.

Enjoy making and tasting this traditional Central Asian beverage!

Nutritional Values

Fresh Mare’s Milk (2 liters)

 - Calories: 105

 - Protein: 5.5 g

 - Fat: 6 g

 - Carbohydrates: 9 g

 - Calcium: 290 mg

 - Vitamin B12: 1.6 µg

 - Vitamin C: 1 mg

Benefits:

 - Digestibility: Mare’s milk is often easier to digest than cow’s milk, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance.

 - Rich in Nutrients: It contains beneficial vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, calcium, and phosphorus.

 - Probiotics: Contains natural probiotics that can support gut health.

Kumis Starter Culture (1 tablespoon)

 - Typically negligible in terms of calories, fats, or proteins, but provides a significant amount of beneficial bacteria.

Benefits:

 - Probiotics: The starter culture introduces beneficial bacteria that help ferment the milk, improving gut health and digestion.

 - Nutrient Absorption: Fermentation can enhance the bioavailability of certain nutrients.

Water (1 cup)

 - Calories: 0

 - Protein: 0 g

 - Fat: 0 g

 - Carbohydrates: 0 g

 - Calcium: 0 mg

Benefits:

 - Hydration: Essential for maintaining hydration and supporting overall bodily functions.

Sugar (2 tablespoons, optional)

 - Calories: 49

 - Carbohydrates: 13 g

 - Protein: 0 g

 - Fat: 0 g

Benefits:

 - Taste: Adds sweetness to the kumis, which can enhance flavor.

Note: Excessive sugar consumption can have adverse health effects, so it’s best used in moderation.