Choy Qaiymoqiy, also known as Shir Choy, which literally means ‘milk tea’, is a cherished hot beverage enjoyed by Bukharian Jews and many communities throughout Central Asia. This soothing tea, also referred to as ‘Atkan Chay’ by the Uyghurs and ‘Butter Tea’ in the Himalayas, has a rich tradition of warming both the body and soul during cold seasons and at communal gatherings.
In our family, Choy Qaiymoqiy is a beloved ritual, a moment to pause and connect over a shared cup. We prepare it with care, blending simple ingredients in a time-honored method that fills our home with its comforting aroma.
Our Family Recipe for Choy Qaiymoqiy
Ingredients:
• 1-2 teaspoons of loose green or black tea leaves
• 1 cup of water
• 4 cups of whole milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- In a pot, bring 1 cup of water to a boil and add the loose tea leaves.
- Stir and continue boiling until the liquid turns dark.
- On medium-low heat, add milk, stir, and return to a gentle boil.
- Add salt and remove from heat.
- Use a strainer to remove as much of the tea leaves as possible, ensuring no leaves remain in the milk tea.
- Pour the strained tea into medium bowls and add 1 teaspoon of butter.
- Optionally, add 3/8 cup of nuts for an extra layer of richness.
Serves 4
Choy Qaiymoqiy is not only a family favorite but also a testament to the diverse ways in which different cultures enjoy this beverage. Across regions, variations abound—some enjoy adding nuts, fennel seeds and different spices, infusing the tea with unique flavors reflective of their local tastes and traditions. It’s often paired with Lepyoshka (Uzbek non) or bits of matzah in our community, enhancing the experience with a comforting carb complement.
As you savor a cup of Choy Qaiymoqiy, you’re partaking in a vibrant heritage that spans continents, bringing together communities through the simple pleasure of tea. Whether shared with family or friends, Choy Qaiymoqiy remains a timeless drink that unites us all in its warmth and tradition.
Bukharian Bites is a passion-driven initiative aimed at celebrating and sharing the rich culinary heritage of the Bukharian community. Through this project, founder Abe Fuzaylov hopes to connect people with the vibrant flavors, traditions, and stories that make Bukharian Jewish culture unique. The goal is to educate both the younger generation in our community as well as those unfamiliar with Bukharian culture, using the universal language of food. Bukharian Times has been publishing his recipes each English issue, starting with issue 1176.
Avraham Fuzaylov