Cultural discovery through Shashlik

Shashlik opened a door into a cuisine I'd previously known almost nothing about. The deeply savoury from lamb fat flavours are unlike anything in my usual rotation and I mean that positively. Uzbek cuisine sits at the crossroads of the ancient Silk Road trade routes. Understanding that context made the dish taste different — richer with meaning.

I learned that yellow carrots is central to this cuisine's character, not just a seasoning. The a family plov ceremony setting was authentic and helpful for understanding what I was eating. Sarbast lager completed the picture. A genuinely educational meal.