Turkmenistan: Location and People
Turkmenistan is a country located in Central Asia, bordered by Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan to the north, Afghanistan to the southeast, Iran to the south, and the Caspian Sea to the west.
The country is dominated by the Karakum Desert, with most of its population living in scattered oases. Beneath the arid desert landscape lies significant wealth: vast reserves of oil, natural gas, and minerals. The capital, Ashgabat, is renowned for its striking white marble architecture and numerous fountains, displaying the country’s rich cultural heritage and economic prosperity.
A few wonders of Turkmenistan
1. Ashgabat: Ashgabat, Turkmenistan’s capital, is a city of grandeur and beauty. Its white marble buildings, grand monuments, and numerous fountains make it a unique urban wonder. The city’s architecture is a blend of traditional and modern styles, reflecting the country’s rich cultural heritage.
2. Darvaza Crater: The Darvaza Crater, also known as the “Door to Hell”, is a natural gas field in the Karakum Desert that has been burning continuously since 1971. The crater is about 69 meters in diameter and 20 meters deep, creating a mesmerizing fire pit that’s visible from miles away.
3. The Karakum Desert: The Karakum Desert covers about 70% of Turkmenistan, offering breathtaking sand dunes and unique landscapes. This vast desert was once a key part of the ancient Silk Road, with caravans passing through its rugged terrain. Today, it’s a popular destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
4. Ancient Merv: Ancient Merv, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the oldest cities in Central Asia. This ancient city was a major hub on the Silk Road, showcasing Turkmenistan’s rich history and cultural significance. Its ruins include mosques, mausoleums, and caravanserais, telling the story of a bygone era.
People of Turkmenistan
The people of Turkmenistan are known for their hospitality and strong cultural traditions. The majority of the population is ethnic Turkmen, with significant Uzbek and Russian minorities. Traditional Turkmen society is tribal-based, with a strong emphasis on family and community ties.
Traditional dress of Turkmenistan
In Turkmenistan, traditional dress is an important part of cultural identity. Men wear a “telpek” (a high, pointed hat) and a long, loose-fitting robe called a “don” or “chaikhani”. Women wear colourful, intricately embroidered dresses and headscarves, often adorned with traditional patterns and motifs.
The dresses are typically made of silk or cotton, and are designed to be modest yet elegant. Traditional dress is often worn on special occasions and celebrations, showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage.
Pulses and Recipes
In Turkmenistan, pulses like beans and lentils are cultivated mainly in irrigated areas, playing a vital role in the local diet. The country’s cuisine features dishes like “plov” (rice pilaf with meat and pulses), “shurpa” (soup with meat and pulses), and “manty” (dumplings filled with meat and sometimes pulses). Meat, especially lamb and beef, is a staple ingredient in every dish.
Today, we will try out Unas – A bean soup with noodles.
Unas (Turkmen Bean Soup with Homemade Noodles)
Unas is a comforting Turkmenistan classic. This hearty soup combines tender black-eyed beans, fresh homemade noodles, and aromatic veggies like onions & garlic. Simmered in flavorful veg stock – it’s a cozy bowl of comfort. Perfect fit for dalonthetable!
You need:
50 gm black-eyed beans
1 onion, chopped
1 tsp grated garlic
2 cups vegetable stock
¼ tsp chili flakes/chili powder
1 tbsp refined oil
Salt to taste
2 tsp yogurt/sour cream
Fresh green onion leaves
For Noodles:
50 gm flour
1 tsp refined oil
Pinch of salt
½ cup of hot water
Method:
- Soak beans overnight.
- Rinse and boil the beans with ¼ tsp of salt until tender.
Make noodles:
3. Mix flour, salt, oil, and hot water. Knead until smooth.
4. Rest dough for 30 minutes.
5. Transfer to a floured surface, knead briefly.
6. Roll out thinly.
7. Flour the dough generously. Roll into a log (like in the picture).
8. Cut the roll into strips with a sharp knife.
9. Open strips, flour to prevent sticking.
10. Slice onion, grate garlic, chop green onion leaves finely.
11. Heat oil in a pan. Add onion, sauté briefly.
12. Add garlic, chilli powder; mix well.
13. Add cooked beans, veg stock. Bring to a boil.
14. Adjust the salt.
15. noodle strips gently, stir to separate.
16. Cook 7-8 mins or till noodles float.
17. Beat yoghurt, add to pot. Simmer for a minute, switch off heat.
18. Unas is ready. Garnish it with the green onion leaves and serve hot.
Happy cooking!
Coming up next… Pulses in Uzbekistan cuisine
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Dal On The Table 
Beautifully researched & wonderfully presented👏👏👏
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Thanks so much Trina! Really appreciate your kind words
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Such a comforting and hearty dish! Unas looks absolutely nourishing — the combination of beans and homemade noodles must make it so rich and satisfying.
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Aw, thanks so much, Protima! You’re absolutely right, the combo of beans and noodles makes it super comforting and filling. Perfect for a cozy day!
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