Central Asian literature has traditionally been popularised in the form of songs, poems and stories by itinerant minstrels, called akyn . The stories are part of a wider, older tradition, but have come to be associated with the Kyrgyz people and culture partly because Soviet scholars 'gave' Manas to them in efforts to create separate cultures for the various Central Asian peoples. Although the oral tradition is pretty much dead, Manas is still a figure for the Kyrgyz to hang their dreams on. Central Asian food resembles that of the Middle East or the Mediterranean in its use of rice, savoury seasonings, vegetables and legumes, yoghurt and grilled meats. Kyrgyz cuisine is not particularly subtle - a bland meal of meat and potatoes may be livened up with a spicy side dish likely to burn a hole in your mouth.
Tea is ubiquitous, usually served without milk.
Despite their Muslim heritage, most Kyrgyz drink alcohol, at least with guests. You may come across kumys , fermented mare's milk, a mildly alcoholic drink available only in spring and summer when mares are foaling. Bozo , a thick, yeasty concoction made from fermented millet, is available year round. Lonely Planet Publications Pty. Ltd. All rights reserved.