The word tarak is derived from the Korean transliteration of the Mongolian word taraq (ᠲ᠋ᠠ᠊ᠷᠠ᠊ᠬ) or Old Turkictorak.[3][4][5]Cognates include modern Mongolian tarag (тараг) and Kurdishtoraq, both meaning "cheese". As suggested by its etymology, traditional Korean tarak was heavily influenced by the customs of Central Asian—especially Mongolian— fermented milk products.[5]
History
The history of tarak-juk dates back to the consumption of milk in Korean history.[2] The Kingdom of Goryeo (918–1392) kept Yuu-so (dairy cow office), and nobles consumed nakso (cheese).[2] However, dairy cattle were rare and usually milk was available only after a cow gave birth.[6] Moreover, the freshness of milk was a vital factor as it could not be delivered over long distances.[6] Therefore, milk was considered a supplementary food for special occasions or a recovery food after illness.[6]
Pre-soaked glutinousrice is ground by millstone, sieved, and left to settle. The deposits of ground rice, called muri, are boiled, and milk is added slowly on a gentle simmer over a low flame with constant stirring. Salt is then added, to sweeten the porridge, honey can be added.[1] The ratio between milk and muri recorded in the Women's Encyclopedia is 1:0.8, with adjustments allowed according to taste. However, the book advises the amount of muri should not exceed that of milk.[2][9]