Kumis

From Free net encyclopedia

Kumis (called airag by the Mongolians), is a traditional drink of the people of Central Asia. It can also be spelled "kymys" and "koumiss".

It is made from fermenting mare's milk in a horse-hide container, called a "saba". It may be mildly alcoholic, but one would have to drink an enormous amount for it to have any effect.

The beverage was created first by the Tatars in the 13th century. It was originally made with the milk of the Tatar's horses and yeasts. When using cow's milk, sugar should be added to ensure that fermentation will carry on.

Generally kumis is about 2% alcohol (4 proof), but can be made more potent through distillation.

Kumis and its cousin Kefir are still produced in many parts of the world, and can easily be made at home.

Bishkek, the national capital of Kyrgyzstan, takes its name from the stick used to churn kumis.

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