Uzbekistan is a relatively populous Central Asian country. The official language is Uzbek but Karakalpak is also recognized. The terrain is composed mostly of deserts. This is a double-landlocked country, surrounded by only other landlocked countries, a situation shared only with Liechtenstein. The climate is continental and dry. Native animal species include the goitered gazelle, the Turkestan red pika, and the comb-toed jerboa. Mainstays of the economy include commodities such as copper, oil, silver, uranium, and gas, as well as agriculture. For a cultural experience, check out Tashkent’s Alisher Navoi Opera and Ballet Theatre, or the History Museum of the People of Uzbekistan. See the highest minaret in the country at the Islom-Hoja Medressa in Khiva.

Bread, noodles, and rice are common starchy staples. Typical vegetables include carrots, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Beef and chicken are commonly eaten, and Bukharan Jews also chow down on fish. Palov is a main course usually cooked over an open fire and containing rice, meat, grated carrots, and onions; chickpeas, raisins, barberries, or fruit can lend a little extra added excitement to the dish. Shulah and dholeh are both said to be like risotto. You can maintain a green tea buzz all day, as it’s the national beverage of Uzbekistan! Chai Kaymoki is part of the Shabbat ritual among the aforementioned Bukharan Jews. It involves green tea mixed with milk and butter and sometimes topped with chopped almonds or walnuts.