Kymyz

In Kyrgyz cuisine, Kymyz is a very old name. It's a drink that's created using horse's milk in several parts of Central Asia and Mongolia (mare). The mare's milk is fermented and has a distinct flavor. Because the fermented milk is moderately alcoholic, drinking and sharing kymyz has become something of a tradition.

Serving guests a bowl of kymyz remains an integral aspect of nomadic hospitality, and the tradition of sharing a kymyz drink is a vital tenet of Kyrgyz culture and cuisine.

Furthermore, the benefits of fermented horse milk are said to improve intestinal health and digestion. Fresh kymyz is only accessible during the summer months, when nomadic herders are grazing their horses.