How to make Ema Datshi Recipe 2025

Bring Bhutanese flavors home with this easy Ema Datshi recipe!

Ema Datshi is a national dish of Bhutan. It is quite a spicy and comforting stew prepared from chilies and cheese. Known as a national dish of Bhutan, it is consumed regularly in every household within Bhutan and showcases the country’s love for simple yet highly tasty cuisine. This Ema Datshi recipe is sure to offer a taste of authenticity at your table if you want to bring the real flavor of Bhutan home.

What does Ema Datshi mean?

In Dzongkha-the official language of Bhutan-the term “Ema Datshi” means chili and cheese. True to its name, the dish is very much about either fresh green or red chilies together with a local cheese called datshi. And mostly, the datshi is consumed with rice; it sometimes contains vegetables or added flavors such as garlic and onion.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Bold Flavors: The heat of chilies perfectly complements the creamy texture of the cheese.
• Easy to Make: Requires only a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking time.
• Comfort Food: Warm, spicy, and cheesy—a perfect dish for cozy evenings.

Ingredients for Ema Datshi

To make authentic Ema Datshi, you’ll need:

• Chilies: 6-8 green chilies (you can mix red and green for color and variety). Adjust quantity to your spice tolerance.
• Cheese: 1 cup of feta cheese (a substitute for traditional datshi cheese).
• Butter: 2 tablespoons (optional but enhances the creaminess).
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced.
• Onion: 1 medium-sized, thinly sliced.
• Tomatoes: 2 medium-sized, chopped.
• Water: 1 cup.
• Salt: To taste.

👇 Ema Datshi Recipe by Marc’s Recipes 👇

Step-by-Step Ema Datshi Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Wash and slice the chilies lengthwise. If you prefer less heat, remove some of the seeds.
2. Slice the onion and chop the tomatoes.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

1. In a saucepan, add the water and bring it to a boil.
2. Add the chilies, onion, and garlic. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Tomatoes and Cheese

1. Add the chopped tomatoes and let them soften for 2 minutes.
2. Add the cheese (or feta). Stir gently to incorporate the cheese without breaking it too much.

Step 4: Simmer and Serve

1. Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer until the cheese melts and the flavors blend, about 5 minutes.
2. Add salt to taste and a knob of butter for added richness.
3. Serve hot with steamed rice and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Perfect Ema Datshi

1. Cheese Substitution: If feta isn’t available, you can use mozzarella or cottage cheese for a similar texture.
2. Chili Variations: Experiment with mild chilies if you prefer less spice, or go bold with fiery varieties for an authentic kick.
3. Optional Additions: Add mushrooms, spinach, or potatoes to give the dish a unique twist while maintaining its authenticity.

Ema Datshi Recipe by Bong Eats

Nutritional Benefits of Ema Datshi

1. Rich in Calcium: Thanks to the cheese, it’s an excellent source of calcium.
2. Boosts Metabolism: Chilies are known for their metabolism-boosting properties.
3. Vegetarian-Friendly: Perfect for vegetarians who enjoy bold, spicy flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final through

Ema Datshi is a dish of completely different taste. It is literally a pocket of Bhutanese culture and tastes a lot more like love for fierce flavors than anything else. Whether you want to try it for the first time or be reminded of a wonderful trip to Bhutan, enjoy the simple recipe that enters the soul of the heartwarming flavors of the Himalayas.

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