What’s better than a home-cooked meal? For Aruzhan and Alikhan, two Kazakh students studying in Beijing, it’s a chance to share their culture – one hearty dish at a time. 🍲
The duo recently hosted friends for a traditional Kazakh beef stew called beshbarmak, blending tender meat, handmade noodles, and spices that 'taste like a hug from grandma,' according to reporter Lucy, who joined the feast. 'It’s about warmth and connection,' Aruzhan shared. 'Food is how we say, \"Welcome to our world\".'
Both students say studying in China has been eye-opening. 'We’re not just learning textbooks – we’re swapping stories over meals,' Alikhan said, noting how classmates now greet them with \"Salem!\" (Hello in Kazakh). Their culinary diplomacy even inspired a WeChat group where 300+ members share recipes and language tips. 💬
As Beijing’s international student community grows, these food-powered friendships are proving that cultural bridges are best built bite by bite. 🤝
