tokktai

Tokktai is a traditional Kazakh dish made from finely chopped, cured horse meat. The preparation involves salting and drying pieces of horse meat, often from the leg or shoulder, until they achieve a firm, jerky-like consistency. This cured meat is then thinly sliced or shredded.

The primary method of consuming tokktai is by rehydrating it. This is typically done by boiling the dried meat in water or broth. The resulting liquid is a flavorful broth, and the rehydrated meat becomes tender and is usually served alongside it. Some variations might include adding onions, potatoes, or other vegetables to the broth while it simmers.

Tokktai holds cultural significance in Kazakhstan as a way to preserve meat, particularly during colder months. It is often prepared in large batches and stored for extended periods. The dish is a testament to the nomadic heritage of the Kazakh people, who relied on methods of food preservation that allowed for sustenance in a challenging environment. It is a simple yet hearty meal, reflecting the agricultural and pastoral traditions of the region.