As you know, mutton is the most common source of protein here in Kyrgyzstan. Like bread, it is almost revered by the Kyrgyz, and so the process of slaughtering a sheep is ceremonial. I've been fortunate to have observed a few of these ceremonies, called Кои Сои (Koi Soi). While back in our training villages, one host family allowed me to video tape the ceremony and I have made it into a video below.
Warning, this video is graphic. I did my best to make it watchable for even the squeamish, but just know you've been warned.
It opens with a shot of the sheep and Stephanie's host mother sharpening the knives.
The legs are first bound to keep the sheep from struggling too violently.
Before the sheep is slaughtered everyone says a very quick prayer, as seen at second 18.
After the sheep has passed on, the hoofs are cut off.
It is then either hanged, as in this video, or lain on the grass. (The next part is much easier when it is hanging.)
The sheep is then skinned, careful to leave all the fat on the meat. This sheep has a rather large fatty area around the buttocks, a trait sought after in sheep by the Kyrgyz.
When the carcass is removed it can be used as a placemat to cut up the meat or as a rug/cushion/etc.
The internal organs are then removed and given to the women participating in the ceremony. They will clean them and braid the intestines while the men chop the mutton.
The sheep head is given to the most honored guest to eat and share the eyes with one other person of their choosing.
It was an interesting time had by all.
For more on the Koi Soi, check out Nicole's post here: http://oginshmogin.blogspot.com/2013/11/koiiiiii-whaaaaaaaaaa.html
