What Food To Try in Dushanbe and Food Prices

Osh - Plov (rice pilaf) - A fragrant dish made with steamed rice, tender chunks of lamb, and flavored with a medley of carrots and onions. Often enjoyed during lunch gatherings, locals typically share it from a large communal plate.

Chak-chak - Fried Noodle Dish - Crispy, thin noodles that are deep-fried and mixed with various meats and vegetables. It's a popular choice found at street stalls, usually eaten quickly while walking or during casual social outings.

Qurutob - Bread and Yogurt Salad - Layers of crusty bread soaked in a tangy yogurt sauce topped with fresh vegetables and herbs. Locals savor this dish especially during lunch, often during hot summer days when they're looking for something refreshing.

Shirin Kebab - Sweet Kebabs - Skewered meat served with a surprising twist of sweet fruit, often prunes or apricots, giving a delightful contrast to the savory flavors. This dish is commonly enjoyed at family feasts or celebrations, making it a special guest favorite.

Fried Lagman - Pan-Fried Noodles - Thick noodles stir-fried with a mix of colorful vegetables and served with a hearty meat sauce. A popular choice during winter, locals often pair it with hot tea for added warmth.

Guslar - Seasonal Dumplings - Handmade dumplings filled with seasonal greens and herbs, steamed to perfection. Traditionally prepared during spring, they bring families together for a lively cooking session, as everyone contributes to the filling process.

Sambusa - Savory Pastries - Crispy pastries stuffed with spiced meat or lentils, often found in food markets as satisfying street food. Beloved as a quick snack, these are best enjoyed fresh out of the fryer while on the go.

Devzira - Traditional Goat Stew - Tender pieces of goat meat slowly cooked with vegetables in flavorful spices, creating a rich, hearty dish. This is particularly enjoyed during special gatherings, where diners often come together to celebrate and share stories.

Chai - چای (spiced milk tea) - A comforting blend of black tea, milk, cardamom, and other spices brewed together to create a soothing beverage. Best enjoyed in the late afternoon when locals gather to chat at roadside stalls, often served with a side of sweet pastries.

Doogh - دوغ (yogurt drink) - A refreshing drink made from yogurt mixed with water, mint, and salt, served chilled and carbonated. It’s a summertime favorite, especially during picnics, and pairs perfectly with rice dishes, providing a tangy contrast.

Vodne - ودنه (local spirit) - A traditional alcoholic drink made from fermented fruits, similar to a homemade fruit brandy. This drink is typically reserved for special celebrations, bringing together friends and family for toasts, though don’t expect to find it in many bars—it's often made at home or in small distilleries.

Pahlava - پحلوا (sweet pastry) - A rich dessert made with layers of thin dough, filled with crushed nuts and sweetened with honey and syrup. It makes an appearance during weddings and special occasions, often served warm and cut into diamond-shaped pieces.

Plov - پلَو (rice dessert) - While not many think of rice as sweet, this dish features rice cooked with sugar, dried fruits, and nuts, often enjoyed during festive gatherings. It's served chilled or at room temperature, and you might catch it during major holidays like Navruz, showcasing the joy of the season.