One of the best ways to experience Bhutan's culture is through its food. Ema Datshi, the national dish, is at the heart of Bhutanese cuisine.
This simple yet flavorful dish has a deep-rooted significance in Bhutanese life and is often served at meals across the country. This blog will discuss everything you need to know about Bhutan's national dish, its ingredients, and how it's prepared.
What Is Ema Datshi?
The national dish of Bhutan, Ema Datshi, a spicy and flavorful combination of chili peppers (ema) and cheese (datshi). The name translates to "chili and cheese" in Dzongkha, Bhutan's official language. While the dish might seem straightforward, it is much more than a simple combination of two ingredients.
It is a staple food in Bhutan, enjoyed by people of all ages and social classes. chilies hold a special place in Bhutanese cuisine. Unlike in many countries, where chilies are used sparingly, Bhutan treats them as a vegetable rather than a spice.
As such, Ema Datshi is known for its heat, which can be pretty intense for those unaccustomed to spicy food.
The Ingredients Behind Bhutan's National Dish
To truly appreciate Ema Datshi, it's essential to understand the ingredients that make it such a beloved part of Bhutanese culture. Here's a breakdown of the primary components:
Chilies(Ema): The star of the dish, chilies are generously used in Ema Datshi. Green and red chilies are commonly used, though the dish can be made with fresh or dried varieties depending on the season.
The intensity of the chilies contributes to the dish's signature heat, making it a favourite among spice lovers.
Cheese (Datshi): Bhutan's national dish, "datshi", or cheese, is typically made from cow or yak milk. Bhutanese cheese has a texture similar to feta but is much creamier. The cheese mellows the heat of the chilies, creating a perfect balance between spice and richness.
Garlic: Garlic is added to the dish for an extra layer of flavour. Its aroma and taste complement the chilies' sharpness and the cheese's creaminess.
Onion: Onions are used to give Ema Datshi a slight sweetness, balancing the heat from the chilies.
Tomato: While tomatoes are only sometimes included, many versions of Ema Datshi feature them, adding a hint of acidity and freshness to the dish.
Butter: A small amount of butter is often used to give the dish a silky texture and enhance the richness of the cheese.
How Is Bhutan's National Dish Prepared?
Preparing Ema Datshi, the national dish of Bhutan, is a relatively straightforward process, but like many traditional recipes, it's all about the balance of ingredients. Here's a simple way to prepare this iconic dish:
Ingredients:
200g of green and red chilies (fresh or dried)
150g of Bhutanese cheese (or a combination of feta and ricotta)
2 medium tomatoes (optional)
1 medium onion, sliced
4 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
1 tablespoon of butter
Salt to taste
Water
Method:
Prepare the Chilies: If you use fresh chilies, slice them lengthwise. For dried chilies, soak them in hot water for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cook the Vegetables: Melt the butter in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced onions, garlic, and tomatoes, and sauté until soft.
Add the Chilies: Add the chilies to the pan and a small amount of water, just enough to cover the ingredients. Cover the pan and let the chilies cook for 10 minutes until tender.
Add the Cheese: Once the chilies are cooked, reduce the heat to low and add the cheese. Stir gently until the cheese melts and creates a creamy sauce.
Season and Serve: Season the dish with salt to taste. Serve hot with steamed rice, which is the traditional accompaniment to Ema Datshi.
Why Is Ema Datshi Bhutan's National Dish?
Bhutanese cuisine is deeply intertwined with the country's culture, values, and lifestyle. Ema Datshi holds a special place as the national dish of Bhutan for several reasons:
Simplicity and Tradition: Ema Datshi's ingredients are simple, and the dish represents Bhutan's agricultural practices. Chilies and dairy products are widely available in the region, making the dish accessible to most Bhutanese.
Chili Culture: Bhutanese people have a strong affinity for chilies. Unlike many cultures, where chilies are used as a garnish or in moderation, in Bhutan, they are consumed in large quantities, making them a central part of the meal. Ema Datshi highlights this aspect of Bhutanese food culture.
Everyday Comfort Food: While considered a national dish, Ema Datshi is also a comfort food in Bhutan. It is eaten almost daily, often accompanied by rice, which forms the basis of most Bhutanese meals. This widespread consumption has made it an essential part of daily life.
Variations Of Ema Datshi
Although Ema Datshi is Bhutan's most well-known national dish, several variations of the dish reflect regional preferences and the availability of ingredients. Here are a few popular alternatives:
Kewa Datshi: This variation replaces chilies with potatoes (kewa). The potatoes are cooked in the same cheesy sauce, making them less spicy but equally satisfying.
Shamu Datshi: In this variation, mushrooms (shamu) are used instead of or in addition to chilies. The mushrooms add an earthy flavor that complements the creaminess of the cheese.
Hogay: Hogay is a cold salad version of Ema Datshi, made with raw chilies, tomatoes, onions, and Bhutanese cheese. It's often served as a side dish and offers a refreshing alternative to the cooked version.
Experiencing Bhutan's National Dish
When travelling to Bhutan, you must try Ema Datshi. The dish is available at almost every meal, from roadside cafes to fine-dining restaurants. For travellers, it's a great way to immerse themselves in Bhutanese culture, as food plays a significant role in the country's traditions and hospitality.
If you're not a fan of spice, it's worth noting that Ema Datshi can be hot, depending on the type of chilies used. However, the richness of the cheese provides a soothing balance, so even those with a lower tolerance for spicy food might enjoy it.
Conclusion About Bhutan's National Dish
Ema Datshi, Bhutan's national dish, is more than just a meal—it's a cultural icon. It represents Bhutanese culinary traditions, the country's relationship with agriculture, and the importance of simplicity in daily life.
No visit to Bhutan is complete without sampling Ema Datshi, a dish that embodies the country's love for chilies and cheese. This iconic national dish of Bhutan provides a unique culinary experience and a glimpse into the soul of this beautiful Himalayan kingdom.
Ready to explore Bhutan’s rich culture and cuisine? Visit Druk Asia to plan your unforgettable journey and indulge in the flavours of this enchanting land!
Frequently Asked Questions About Bhutan's National Dish
Is Ema Datshi Always Vegetarian?
Ema Datshi is traditionally a vegetarian dish made from chilies, cheese, and sometimes additional vegetables like onions and tomatoes. However, some variations may include non-vegetarian elements such as meat or dried fish, though this is less common.
Can I Make Ema Datshi With Non-Dairy Cheese?
Yes, you can substitute dairy cheese with non-dairy cheese if you're vegan or lactose intolerant. While the traditional Bhutanese recipe uses cow or yak cheese, plant-based cheeses can still capture the dish's essence by providing a creamy texture that balances the chilies.
Is Ema Datshi Served With Other Dishes In Bhutan?
Yes, Ema Datshi is often served as part of a larger meal, accompanied by rice and sometimes other side dishes like curries or stir-fried vegetables. Rice is a staple food in Bhutan, and it pairs perfectly with the spicy, creamy Ema Datshi.
Can I Adjust The Spiciness Of Ema Datshi?
Absolutely. While Ema Datshi is known for its heat, you can adjust the level of spiciness by using fewer chilies or milder varieties. Some Bhutanese families also prepare less spicy versions for children or guests who are not used to hot food.
Is It Difficult To Find The Ingredients For Ema Datshi Outside Bhutan?
The key ingredients, such as chilies, garlic, and onions, are readily available worldwide. If you can't find Bhutanese cheese, feta or a blend of feta and ricotta are often used as substitutes outside of Bhutan. This makes it relatively easy to recreate Ema Datshi at home.
Are There Regional Variations Of Ema Datshi In Bhutan?
Yes, there are slight regional variations of Ema Datshi across Bhutan. Different chilies are used in some regions, or the dish might be prepared with more or less cheese. Some areas may include local ingredients like seasonal vegetables.
