Dining Etiquette

In Mongolia, dining manners are typically informal affairs that retain many of the customs that characterized nomadic life. Therefore, most Mongol families do not typically eat together or at a table. Family members often eat when and as they are able.

The majority of Mongol households eat on the floor, despite the fact that some may have a table. If you must sit on the floor, make sure your feet are pointed away from the dining mat and tuck them under your bottom. Arrive on time if you are invited to a Mongol home for dinner since timeliness is vital. Try to consume a small amount of everything offered to you, and accept each gift with gratitude.

Accept each item with your right hand and try to eat a little bit of everything you are given. Be ready to consume a lot of meat that has been wok-cooked without seasoning, though salt is usually added. Other common additions include flour, rice, and potatoes. Stews and thick soups are the most popular dishes in Mongolia.

You may also count on eating bread, mutton pancakes, dumplings, breadsticks, and special Mongol pasta comprised of noodles, pork, potatoes, and carrots. Before beginning a meal, it is usual to sip a cup of black tea called Khar tsai, as this is said to aid with digestion. When a cup of tea is brought to you, you should hold the bottom and sip from it before setting the cup down on the table. Meals may also contain alcohol and Süütei tsai, a salt-flavored milk beverage. Additionally, you should anticipate that the meal will contain a few shots of vodka.