Mongolian food without prawn crackers in sight

Our lovely friend Musha has been giving us really good advice for when we’ll be in Mongolia – we’ve learnt that should you accidentally step on someone’s feet, you should shake their hands out of respect. The other night she took us to a place that serves authentic Mongolian food in London.

Now years ago I went to a restaurant called The Mongolian Barbeque and they were as authentic as Sweet & sour is to Chinese cuisine. I didn’t think Mongolians chowed on prawn crackers and Cafe Latte cheesecakes, so it was a blessing to try out real Mongolian food before we got to Mongolia.

We trekked down to Paddington to a pub called Prince of Wales which is owned and ran by Mongolians. From the outside it looks like any typical boozers and having squeezed into a space next to some awful darts players, Musha ordered us some Mongolian dumplings both fried and steamed versions, Mongolian noodles and salad.

The fried dumplings were like huge empanadas and filled with yummy beef patties – we copied Musha who showed us how to fold the dumplings in half and shove into crevice (mouth). The steamed dumplings were really juicy and the noodles were really tasty, tossed with slivers of beef and greens. The noodles itself is quite different to what I have eaten before; they were slightly dough like which held the flavours really well. Musha said they cook the noodles by laying them over the meat, which soaks up the meaty flavours whilst getting a good steam. It was hearty meal; one that we really enjoyed and would definitely recommend.

So what about desserts you cry? Musha will be bringing in a sample of Mongolian dry yoghurt for us to try, slightly dubious having caught Tac feverishly shaking his head and mouthing ‘don’t do it’. Mmmmmm at least we won’t get any surprises whilst we’re in Mongolia. Can’t wait!

Prince of Wales
2 Cleveland Terrace
Paddington
London W2 6LH
+44 20 7706 7040