Ethnic groups of Russia: Shors

The Shors are a small Turkic ethnic group of Western Siberia. They number only about 10,000, most of whom live in Kemerovo Region. In terms of language and culture, they are most closely related to the Altai people.

Today, the Shors are known as outstanding hunters, but, in ancient times, they were renowned as excellent blacksmiths. According to legend, the warriors of Genghis Khan were in awe of them, because their strong blades effortlessly cut through chainmail like it was paper!

The main dish of Shor cuisine is ‘pelben’ dumplings. They are made with rye flour and filled with minced horse meat, venison or beef, to which pine nuts are added. ‘Pelbens’ are usually boiled in milk, not water.

Every year on January 19, the Shors celebrate ‘Myltyk Payram’ (‘Gun Festival’). On this day, they honor their ancient hunting traditions, teach their children about them and organize sports competitions. They cook ‘pelbens’ and hide tiny symbolic objects inside them that are said to predict the future.