Rice or noodles, bread are many countries’ most popular dish, but have you ever thought of…chilli?
Bhutan, the land of the Thunder Dragon, enchants visitors with its serene scenery and fiery cuisine. Bhutanese cuisine is as diverse as its breathtaking landscapes, with each region boasting its own specialties. Across the nation, rice is a staple, often accompanied by vegetables or meat cooked with chili and cheese. In Bhutan, chilies play a central role in meals, treated almost like vegetables rather than just spices.
Ema Datshi, a chili-cheese curry, stands out as the most popular dish in Bhutanese cuisine and is often regarded as the national dish. “Ema” means chilies, and “Datshi” means cheese. This hearty stew is made with various types of chilies—fresh green, sun-dried, or blanched—and fresh yak or cow cheese. The dish is typically served over a bed of red rice, another Bhutanese staple. Bhutanese people enjoy Ema Datshi with anything from rice and bread to snacks with drinks. It’s available everywhere, from homes to restaurants.
Ingredients and Preparation
Ema Datshi is quick and easy to make, taking less than 30 minutes. This recipe is for 3 servings:
Ingredients:
- 250 grams dried red chili
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon garlic, chopped or sliced
- ½ tablespoon ginger, chopped ((Optional, depends on your preference)
- P4-5 cherry tomatoes, chopped
- Vegetable oil
- Salt
- Cold water
- 200 grams cheese, thinly sliced
Making Ema Datshi
- Remove chili seeds if you prefer a milder dish, then wash the chilies.
- In a pan, combine the chilies, chopped onion, garlic, ginger ((optional) tomatoes, cold water, vegetable oil, and a little salt. Sprinkle the cheese on top.
- Cover the pan and cook for about 7-8 minutes, until the cheese melts.
- Once the cheese is melted, stir and serve with red rice.
Red chili peppers are packed with healthy nutrients. They’re rich in vitamin C and contain carotene (a precursor to vitamin A). They also offer a good dose of vitamin B, especially vitamin B6, along with traces of potassium, magnesium, and iron. The vitamin C content helps boost the absorption of non-heme iron from foods like beans and grains.
Chili peppers enhance digestive health, boost metabolism, reduce migraines, lower cancer risk, combat fungal infections, colds, and the flu, reduce inflammation, and support cardiovascular health. Their fiery flavor also makes them an excellent appetizer.
If you’re craving a dish that’s satisfying and spicy, Ema Datshi is a must-try. Its texture, aroma, and taste will leave you wanting more. This special dish is flavorful enough for lunch, dinner, or any day of the week. It’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Give it a try and let us know how it goes!
