day 5 bishkek

There is a large Turkish influence here in Bishkek. Don't ask me how it is identified or what a Turk looks like but one thing that i can say for sure is that the food is outstanding. Many who know me well know that the only prerequisite for evaluating a good restaurant is an open sign in the front window. The food offerings in this city are amazing. To describe them properly would be difficult. Typically much lighter than American fare, they usually consist or a rice or noodle base covered with thinly sliced and lightly spiced beef or chicken. Vegetables and a light sauce mixed in. Portions are moderate making it difficult to overindulge. Also walking everywhere certainly helps to burn the calories. As with most European diets snacking between meals does not seem to be so prevalent. I have made a conscience effort to try something new at each sitting, one of my favorites being manti. Similar to a dumpling stuffed with goodies.

manti    very good

inside turkish resturant

my entree rice yogurt stromboli 

horse meat sausage

beef for sale

I also had the privilege of visiting the Osh bizzare today. How do I describe this??? Anything and everything one could possible need packed into about 3 city blocks of metal storage containers with plastic sheeting covering the narrow walkways in between. The most riveting of areas were the fresh meat and chicken vendors with there wares of freshly slaughtered horse and chicken. I did take some photos of this but i was getting a little nervous towards the end. (dirty looks). Also a few pictures of my favorite grandchild.