Ema Datshi also known as Dzongkha in Bhutan is an authentic delicacy made from chilli peppers and cheese. A variety of chillies either fresh or dry are used when preparing the dish and the combination of chillies and cheese make it a very unique gourmet experience. The chillies are known as ‘sha ema’ in Bhutanese and they are similar to capsicums, the peppers found in Mexico. Even if the dish looks too hot for the palette the cheese is sure to tone down the spicy effect. It is usually accompanied with a portion of warm rice so one can mix it all together, lessening the spiciness. Be adventurous and try out this fabulous dish!
The cheese used for Ema Datshi is usually home made from the milk of cows or yaks. It is processed in a way that the fat is removed from the milk and turned into butter while the remainder is what is used. When the cheese is prepared there is milk like liquid that is left over. This milk is used as a soup for the rice. The Bhutanese try to minimize wastage as much as possible so the milk that is originally used to make cheese and butter is completely consumed. Those who feel that they cannot handle the heat of the chillies can always ask the person who is cooking to remove the seeds which are the source of the “hotness”!
Bhutanese have also developed the original recipe to include vegetables. There are varieties of Ema Datshi that is cooked with tomatoes, mushrooms, carrots and potatoes. If you visit this enchanting country you must try out this dish; most people say a visit to Bhutan is incomplete if you have not tasted it.
Stay at a Bhutan hotel that also lets you savour local dishes which is very much a part of a cultural experience. For great accommodation, luxurious rooms and a menu with local cuisine check out Uma Bhutan which also offers Bhutan tour packages that let you truly experience the sights, sounds and tastes of this magical kingdom. Make sure to also sample some Ema Datshi which will be a gastronomic experience one will not soon forget.
Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+