Experience the unique taste of Kazakhstan's Kumis, a traditional drink made from fermented mare's milk. With its slightly sour flavor and low alcohol content, this beverage is a cultural delight that has been enjoyed for centuries.
Here's a simplified recipe for making Kazakhstan Kumis at home:
Ingredients:
- 1 gallon of fresh mare's milk (you can also use cow's milk)
- 1/4 cup of previously fermented Kumis (optional, to use as a starter culture)
- Sugar or honey (optional, for sweetening)
Equipment:
- Large glass jar or container with a lid
- Cheesecloth or paper towel
- Rubber band or string
Instructions:
1- Start by pouring the fresh mare's milk into a clean glass jar or container, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
2- If you're using a starter culture, add 1/4 cup of previously fermented Kumis to the milk and mix well. This will help kickstart the fermentation process.
3- Cover the jar with a cheesecloth or paper towel and secure it with a rubber band or string. This will allow the milk to ferment while keeping out any dust or debris.
4- Place the jar in a warm, dark place, ideally around 68-72°F (20-22°C), for about 12-24 hours. The fermentation time may vary depending on the ambient temperature and the desired level of sourness.
5- Check the milk periodically. It should start to thicken and develop a slightly sour taste. If you prefer a sweeter Kumis, you can add sugar or honey to taste.
6- Once the milk has fermented to your liking, transfer it to the refrigerator to chill. Kumis is typically served cold.
7- Before serving, give the Kumis a good stir to mix any separated solids. Enjoy your homemade Kazakhstan Kumis!
Note: Traditional Kumis is made with mare's milk, but if mare's milk is not available, you can use cow's milk as a substitute. The flavor may be slightly different, but the fermentation process remains the same.
Nutritional Values:
here are approximate nutritional values for the main ingredients used in making Kazakhstan Kumis:
1 Gallon of Fresh Mare's Milk (or Cow's Milk):
- Calories: 1,550 kcal (for mare's milk) or 1,560 kcal (for cow's milk)
- Fat: 60 g (for mare's milk) or 80 g (for cow's milk)
- Carbohydrates: 160 g (for mare's milk) or 160 g (for cow's milk)
- Protein: 60 g (for mare's milk) or 80 g (for cow's milk)
Benefits:
- Rich in Nutrients: Provides a good source of protein, calcium, and vitamins.
- Digestibility: Mare's milk is often easier to digest compared to cow's milk, making it suitable for some individuals with lactose intolerance.
- Hydration: Contains a high water content, contributing to hydration.
1/4 Cup of Previously Fermented Kumis (Optional)
- Calories: 30 kcal
- Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Protein: 1 g
Benefits:
- Starter Culture: Contains beneficial bacteria that help ferment the milk into kumis, a fermented drink with probiotic benefits.
- Probiotics: Enhances gut health by introducing beneficial bacteria.
Sugar or Honey (Optional, for Sweetening):
Sugar (1 tablespoon)
- Calories: 48 kcal
- Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Protein: 0 g
Benefits:Sweetening: Adds sweetness to the milk, making it more palatable.
Honey (1 tablespoon):
- Calories: 64 kcal
- Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 17 g
- Protein: 0 g
Benefits:
- Sweetening: Adds sweetness to the milk, making it more palatable.
- Honey: Contains small amounts of vitamins and minerals and has antimicrobial properties.
Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific brand or type of ingredient used. Additionally, the nutritional content of homemade Kumis may vary depending on factors such as fermentation time and any additional ingredients added.
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