Making Dairy Food

Abstract

This video showcases the process of making dairy foods, culminating in the production of milk wine. As Idemjav's wife, Gerel, pours the freshly distilled milkwine into a cup for her husband, Idemjav performs a ritual gesture, offering libations three times: to the fire Buddha (Galiin Burhan), the sky (Delhein Tsagan Aav), and both parents (Dörvön Aav Eej). They closed the yurt door when this ritual was in process, symbolising the sanctity of their family tradition and ensuring that the libations were directed appropriately. Alongside this simple yet meaningful gesture and the associated taboos, Idemjav also elaborates on other social etiquettes pertaining to food and community.