Description
"Kurt" or "Kurut" is a traditional Central Asian, particularly Kazakh and Kyrgyz, snack food made from dried, salted cheese balls, often used as a portable and long-lasting food source by nomadic herders.
Here's a more detailed explanation:
What it is:
Kurt is a hard, salty cheese made from fermented milk (cow, goat, sheep, camel, or mare milk).
How it's made:
The milk is strained, shaped into small balls or disks, and then dried in the sun until it becomes very hard.
Why it's important:
It's a staple food for nomadic herders, providing a long-lasting, high-calorie, and nutrient-rich food source, especially during long journeys or in harsh climates.
How it's eaten:
Kurt can be eaten as a snack, crumbled into soups or stews, or dissolved in water or kumis (fermented mare's milk).
Other names:
Kurt may also be known as "kurut", "korot", "khurut", "gurta", or "cort".
Versatility:
Kurt is versatile and portable, making it a convenient food for travelers and those living in remote areas.
Cultural Significance:
Kurt is deeply rooted in the culture and traditions of Central Asian nomadic people, representing their resilience and ingenuity in utilizing local resources.