🇲🇳 Mongolian Cuisine

Shimiin Arkhi

Mongolian Milk Vodka

Prep Time 5 days
Servings 10
Difficulty Hard
Calories 54 kcal

A clear spirit distilled from fermented mare's milk or cow's milk yogurt. Mild in strength, smooth in taste, and deeply tied to Mongolian hospitality rituals.

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. 1 Allow mare's milk or diluted yogurt to ferment in a warm vessel for 2-3 days until actively bubbly.
  2. 2 Set up the traditional still: a large pot with a curved pipe leading to a collection vessel.
  3. 3 Pour fermented liquid into the pot. Place over medium fire.
  4. 4 As the liquid heats, alcohol vapor rises, travels through the pipe, and condenses in the cooled collection vessel.
  5. 5 Collect the distillate, which is typically 10-15% alcohol, much milder than grain spirits.
  6. 6 Serve in small ceremonial bowls. Guests must at least touch the drink to their lips as a sign of respect.

Did You Know?

Mongolian etiquette requires guests to accept shimiin arkhi with the right hand, touch it to the forehead, then take at least a small sip.