Kazakhstan’s traditional milk-based tea is highly cherished among the people of the Xinjiang province in China, where there is a significant population of Kazakhs. The tea, known as “shai” in Kazakh, is prepared with unique recipes, and its popularity has led to thriving teahouses in the region.
Special Place in Xinjiang: Kazakh traditional milk tea holds a special place among the residents of the Xinjiang province in China, especially in areas with a significant Kazakh population. The tea is served in teahouses that attract customers throughout the day.
Teahouse Operations: A popular teahouse in the Chinese town prepares around 2,000 servings of Kazakh tea daily, using 40-50 liters of milk. The teahouse also serves traditional Kazakh foods such as bauyrsak (puffy fried bread), zhent (sweet food made of wheat and dairy), and butter.
Preservation of Heritage: The local Kazakh population in Xinjiang takes pride in preserving its heritage and traditional way of life. The video features a well-decorated yurt belonging to entrepreneur Zhenisgul Nurdanakyn, who demonstrates the art of preparing Kazakh tea with various types such as “kyzyl shai” (red tea), “tas shai” (stone tea), “tary shai” (wheat tea), and more.
Tea Culture and Respect: Offering tea is considered a sign of respect in Kazakh culture. Different types of tea are associated with specific occasions, such as “tuystar shaiy” (tea for relatives), “kudalar shaiy” (tea for parents-in-law), and “kelin shaiy” (tea prepared by a daughter-in-law).
Survival of Tea Ceremony: The tea ceremony has endured through centuries of Chinese history and diverse communities living in Xinjiang. Even as Kazakhs have transitioned to urban areas, the tradition of drinking tea with milk, especially in the morning, remains customary.
The thriving popularity of Kazakh traditional milk tea in Xinjiang reflects the cultural significance of tea and its integral role in hospitality and daily life.
