Renee How, a Singaporean expat highlights her favorite local dishes, sharing why they are a must-try. Join us to discover the tastes that have captivated her and explore the best of Central Asian food scene.
Renee How, сity — Almaty, еntrepreneur, linkedin
I am originally from Singapore. My first profession was architecture. I also earned an MBA and became a business development specialist.
My first trip to Kazakhstan was in 1996. I left Kazakhstan in 2007, but I enjoyed working and living here so much that I returned eight years later. I began working on social enterprises at the industrial company Gateway Ventures. My responsibilities included reviewing business plans, working out contract details and loan terms. I also provided business training and formed fund management teams.
In 2021, I started my own business in the food sector, Samsui.SGKZ. We provide private dining and catering services, specializing in Singaporean hawker-style cuisine. Additionally, I offer personal development advice and conduct business consultations for foreign companies looking to enter the Central Asian markets.
Almaty is a city with charming architecture and numerous parks. I love strolling through the center and enjoying the atmosphere. The mountains surrounding the city are truly a majestic sight. It’s wonderful to enjoy their view from the window or to head out for a hike and picnic in the mountains.
5 dishes you must try in Central Asia
Bida chushur or Бида чушур
Bida chushur is a Central Asian national dish. Kind of a dumplings with clover. Available only in early spring, when clover leaves are tender and not bitter. This dish is often served at festive events and features preparation traditions passed down through generations. However, it is rarely found in restaurants. Instead, local families would traditionally go to the fields in early spring to forage for the special greens needed to make it, as it is very seasonal and only available for a week or two out in the villages.
Guiru tsomyan or Гуйру цомян
Guiru tsomyan is a traditional Uyghur dish. It is made from homemade noodles that are fried with pieces of lamb or beef, and various vegetables such as bell peppers, tomatoes, and carrots, and seasoned with spices. This dish is popular in Uyghur cuisine and is often served as a main course.
Ashlyanfu or Ашлянфу
Ashlyanfu is a traditional dish of Central Asian cuisine, especially popular among Uyghurs and Dungans. It is a cold dish consisting of starch or rice noodles, served with a spicy sauce made from vinegar, garlic, soy sauce, and chili peppers. Sometimes vegetables like cucumbers or carrots, as well as meat or sausage, are added. Ashlyanfu is often served as a refreshing and spicy dish, particularly popular in the summertime. Its unique, jello-like texture reminds me of my favorite snacks back in Singapore called Chwee Kueh.
Beef aspic or Холодец
Beef aspic is a traditional cold dish made from beef, slowly simmered to create a rich meat broth. The meat is shredded into pieces and covered with the flavorful broth, seasoned with spices, and then left to cool until it solidifies into a firm jelly. It is usually served as an appetizer, often accompanied by mustard, horseradish, or vinegar, which adds a sharp and tangy flavor to the dish.
Cabbage rolls or Голубцы
Cabbage rolls are a dish made from stuffed cabbage leaves that are rolled up and either stewed or baked. The filling usually consists of meat, most often beef or pork, rice or other grains, along with onions and spices. Cabbage rolls can be served with various sauces, such as tomato sauce or sour cream. This hearty and delicious dish, which combines carbs and protein wrapped in vegetables, is often prepared for holidays and family meals.