Description
Ema Datshi is the national dish of Bhutan, a rich and flavorful curry made with spicy chilies and cheese. This hearty dish combines the heat of fresh chilies with the creamy texture of melted cheese, creating a mouthwatering balance of spicy and savory.
Ingredients
- 6-8 large green chilies, sliced (adjust to your spice tolerance)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece of ginger, minced
1 large tomato, chopped
½ cup water or vegetable broth
1 cup Bhutanese cheese (or substitute with feta, paneer, or farmer’s cheese)
Salt to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the chilies: Slice the green chilies into thin rings. Be cautious when handling the chilies, and wear gloves if necessary to avoid irritation from the seeds.
- Cook the aromatics: In a large pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook until softened and translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the tomato and chilies: Stir in the chopped tomato and cook for another 3 minutes until the tomato softens. Add the sliced green chilies and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Simmer: Add the water or vegetable broth and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 10-12 minutes, allowing the chilies to soften and the flavors to meld.
- Add the cheese: Stir in the cheese (feta, paneer, or Bhutanese cheese) and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the cheese begins to melt and the sauce thickens. Season with salt to taste.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired. Ema Datshi is traditionally served with a side of steamed white rice.
Notes
- For a milder version, use fewer chilies or replace some with sweet bell peppers to maintain flavor but reduce heat.
- You can add vegetables like eggplant, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
- If you prefer a meat version, add cooked, diced chicken or pork to the curry when adding the cheese.
- For a richer broth, add a splash of coconut milk or cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Bhutanese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 45mg