Pronunciation: [kjˈuːmɪs] (IPA) 
Kumiss, also known as koumiss or airag, is a fermented beverage traditionally made from mare’s milk. The pronunciation of the word is /kʊˈmɪs/ (kuh-miss). The first syllable is pronounced with a short "u" sound as in "book" or "pull", followed by a short "i" vowel as in "sit". The word ends with an "s" sound. The spelling of Kumiss may seem confusing, but the IPA phonetic transcription helps to clarify the correct pronunciation.
Kumiss, pronounced as "kuh-mis," is a traditional fermented drink derived from mare's milk. Also referred to as "koumiss," it has been a significant beverage in Central Asian countries, particularly Mongolia, Kazakhstan, and parts of Russia, for centuries. Kumiss holds cultural and historical importance, with various nomadic and pastoral communities embracing the drink as a part of their heritage.
To create kumiss, fresh mare's milk is collected, ensuring it is free from impurities. The milk is then fermented for several hours to a few days, allowing bacterial cultures, predominantly lactic acid bacteria, to transform the lactose sugar present into lactic acid, thus giving the drink its characteristic tart flavor. The fermentation process also elevates the alcohol content, resulting in a mildly alcoholic beverage, typically around 2-3% ABV.
Kumiss is known for its unique taste, which balances tanginess and sweetness. It possesses a slightly fizzy nature due to the carbon dioxide produced during fermentation. This effervescence adds a refreshing element to the drink. Kumiss is often consumed chilled, and its flavor profile can vary depending on the regional variations and specific techniques employed in its production.
Historically, kumiss has been considered a nutritious beverage with potential health benefits. It contains probiotics produced during fermentation, which are believed to promote a healthy gut microbiome. Additionally, kumiss contains essential vitamins, minerals, and proteins found in mare's milk, including lactoferrin, which may support immune function.
While traditionally made from mare's milk, modern variations of kumiss can also be produced using cow's milk or other animal milks, bringing this cultural beverage to a broader audience.
The word "kumiss" comes from the Turkic language, specifically from the Proto-Turkic word "kımız", which means "milk". This term was adopted by various Turkic-speaking tribes, such as the Mongols, Kazakhs, and Kyrgyz, who are known for making and consuming kumiss. The word eventually entered the English language through Russian, where it is written as "koumiss" (кумыс).
