Mongolian cuisine is a hidden gem in the world of food. It’s hearty, flavorful, and deeply rooted in tradition.
Think tender meats, warming broths, and dishes that’ll make you feel like you’re sitting in a cozy yurt under the vast Mongolian sky.
But here’s the kicker—most people haven’t even scratched the surface of what this cuisine has to offer.
Ready to dive into a culinary adventure? We’ve rounded up the best Mongolian recipes you absolutely need to try at least once.
From sizzling stir-fries to soul-soothing soups, these dishes are packed with flavor and history.
1. Mongolian Beef

Let’s kick things off with a crowd-pleaser—Mongolian Beef.
This dish is a perfect balance of sweet and savory, with tender strips of beef coated in a rich, glossy sauce.
It’s a staple in many American Chinese restaurants, but the Mongolian version has its own unique twist.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ginger, grated
- 4 green onions, sliced
How to Make It:
- Toss the beef slices in cornstarch until fully coated.
- Heat oil in a pan and fry the beef until crispy. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, add garlic and ginger, sautéing until fragrant.
- Pour in soy sauce, water, and brown sugar. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the beef back to the pan, coating it in the sauce.
- Garnish with green onions and serve hot.
Why We Chose It:
This dish is a no-brainer for our list. It’s quick, easy, and delivers a flavor punch that’ll have you coming back for seconds.
Plus, it’s a great introduction to Mongolian-inspired cuisine.
2. Buuz (Mongolian Dumplings)

Buuz are the ultimate comfort food. These steamed dumplings are filled with juicy meat and spices, making them a favorite during Mongolian celebrations.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups flour
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 lb ground beef or lamb
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
How to Make It:
- Mix flour and water to form a dough. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Combine ground meat, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper for the filling.
- Roll the dough into small circles and place a spoonful of filling in the center.
- Fold the edges to seal the dumplings.
- Steam for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
Why This Made It to Our List:
Buuz are a staple in Mongolian cuisine and a must-try for anyone looking to explore authentic flavors. They’re perfect for sharing, too!
3. Khuushuur (Mongolian Fried Meat Pies)

Imagine a savory hand pie filled with spiced meat—that’s Khuushuur for you. It’s crispy, juicy, and downright addictive.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups flour
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/2 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Oil for frying
How to Make It:
- Mix flour and water to form a dough. Let it rest.
- Combine ground beef, onion, salt, and pepper for the filling.
- Roll the dough into circles, add filling, and fold into half-moons.
- Fry in hot oil until golden brown.
Why We Selected It:
Khuushuur is a street food favorite in Mongolia. Its crispy exterior and flavorful filling make it a standout dish.
4. Tsuivan (Mongolian Noodle Stir-Fry)

Tsuivan is a hearty noodle dish loaded with meat and veggies. It’s comfort food at its finest.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb homemade or store-bought noodles
- 1/2 lb beef or lamb, thinly sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 carrots, julienned
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
How to Make It:
- Cook noodles according to package instructions.
- Sauté meat, onion, and carrots in oil until tender.
- Add garlic and soy sauce, then toss in the noodles.
- Stir-fry until everything is well combined.
Why We Chose It:
Tsuivan is a one-pot wonder that’s both filling and flavorful. It’s a must-try for noodle lovers.
5. Boodog (Mongolian Barbecue)

Boodog is a traditional Mongolian barbecue where meat is cooked inside an animal’s skin. It’s a unique and adventurous dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole goat or lamb
- Vegetables (potatoes, carrots, onions)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It:
- Clean the animal and stuff it with vegetables and seasonings.
- Seal the skin and cook over an open fire until the meat is tender.
Why This Made It to Our List:
Boodog is a true taste of Mongolian tradition. It’s a bold choice for adventurous eaters.
6. Guriltai Shul (Mongolian Noodle Soup)

This noodle soup is a warm hug in a bowl. Perfect for chilly days!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef or lamb, cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 cup noodles
- 6 cups beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make It:
- Sauté meat, onion, and carrots until browned.
- Add broth and simmer until meat is tender.
- Cook noodles separately and add to the soup before serving.
Why We Chose It:
Guriltai Shul is simple yet deeply satisfying. It’s a staple in Mongolian households.
7. Airag (Fermented Mare’s Milk)

Airag is a traditional Mongolian drink made from fermented mare’s milk. It’s tangy, fizzy, and an acquired taste.
Ingredients:
- Fresh mare’s milk
- A wooden barrel for fermentation
How to Make It:
- Pour fresh mare’s milk into a wooden barrel.
- Stir continuously for several hours to ferment.
Why This Made It to Our List:
Airag is a unique part of Mongolian culture. It’s a must-try for the adventurous foodie.
8. Boortsog (Mongolian Fried Dough)

Boortsog are sweet, fried dough bites that pair perfectly with tea or coffee.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Oil for frying
How to Make It:
- Mix all ingredients to form a dough.
- Roll out and cut into small pieces.
- Fry until golden brown.
Why We Chose It:
Boortsog are a delightful treat that’s easy to make and even easier to love.
9. Chanasan Makh (Boiled Meat)

This dish is all about simplicity. Tender boiled meat served with a side of salt—it’s pure and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef or lamb
- Water
- Salt to taste
How to Make It:
- Boil meat in water until tender.
- Serve with a sprinkle of salt.
Why This Made It to Our List:
Chanasan Makh showcases the natural flavors of the meat. It’s a minimalist’s dream.
10. Suutei Tsai (Mongolian Milk Tea)

This salty milk tea is a staple in Mongolian households. It’s warming and unique.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups water
- 2 cups milk
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp tea leaves
How to Make It:
- Boil water with tea leaves.
- Add milk and salt, then simmer.
- Strain and serve hot.
Why We Chose It:
Suutei Tsai is a cultural icon. It’s a must-try for anyone exploring Mongolian cuisine.
11. Aaruul (Dried Curd)

Aaruul is a traditional Mongolian snack made from dried curds. It’s tangy, chewy, and packed with protein.
Ingredients:
- Fresh curds
How to Make It:
- Spread curds thinly on a flat surface.
- Dry in the sun until hardened.
Why This Made It to Our List:
Aaruul is a unique snack that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Conclusion
Mongolian cuisine is a treasure trove of flavors waiting to be explored.
From hearty meats to comforting soups, these dishes offer something for everyone.
So, what are you waiting for? Pick a recipe, roll up your sleeves, and start cooking.