Unveiling Kazakhstan: Exploring the Culinary Essence with Astana Chef Evgeniy Chekanin
Kazakh cuisine is deeply rooted in the cultural and spiritual significance of the Kazakh people. Despite facing adversity in the past, the Kazakhs have always found a way to uplift their souls through their food. Evgeniy Chekanin, a talented chef at Selfie restaurant in Astana, has taken this connection to a whole new level by infusing his dishes with the essence of Kazakh heritage.
In a recent interview with The Astana Times, Chekanin shared how his experiences in Kazakhstan have inspired his culinary creations. His signature set, Winds, Blowing from North to South, is a reflection of his journey across the country, incorporating ingredients from every corner of Kazakhstan. From Balkhash pike perch to Oskemen lemons, Chekanin’s dishes showcase the diversity and richness of Kazakh cuisine.
One highlight of Chekanin’s set is the baursak, a puffy fried bread shaped like the shanyrak, the symbolic centerpiece of a yurt. Served with black caviar and morel tea, this dish pays homage to the nomadic heritage of the Kazakh people. Another standout creation is horse meat tartare paired with flaxseed chips shaped like the traditional torsyk, giving diners a taste of Kazakh nomadic life.
Chekanin’s commitment to using locally sourced ingredients in his dishes is a testament to his respect for Kazakhstan’s culinary heritage. His ice cream infused with the rich flavor of Kazakh tea with milk, made from traditional Kazakh cheese, is a perfect example of his innovative approach to cooking. Chekanin’s culinary journey has been shaped by his experiences in places like Burabay and Turkistan, where he found inspiration in the beauty and culture of Kazakhstan.
As Chekanin continues to discover and create new dishes, his passion for Kazakh cuisine shines through. Stay tuned for part two of the interview, where he will share more about his creative process and the inspiration behind his innovative dishes.