Ema Datshi
About Ema Datshi
Ema Datshi is a traditional dish from Bhutan, known for its distinctive use of chili peppers and cheese. Considered the national dish of Bhutan, Ema Datshi highlights the Bhutanese culture's love for spice and warmth, often enjoyed as part of a daily meal. Ema means "chili" and Datshi means "cheese," reflecting the straightforward and honest flavors of Bhutanese cuisine. The dish can be traced back centuries, evolving from a rustic meal enjoyed by farmers to a staple in every Bhutanese household.
Health Benefits
Aside from being deeply comforting, Ema Datshi is also known for some health benefits. Chili peppers are a great source of vitamin C and have metabolism-boosting properties, while cheese provides essential calcium and protein.
Ingredients
- Chili peppers - 200g (green or red, according to your spice preference)
- Cheese - 100g (preferably Gouda or local Bhutanese cheese)
- Butter - 2 tablespoons
- Onion - 1 large, thinly sliced
- Tomato - 2 medium, chopped
- Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
- Ginger - 1 inch, minced
- Water - 1 cup
- Salt - to taste
- Coriander (optional) - for garnishing
Preparation
Prepare the Ingredients
Start by preparing all your ingredients. Wash the chili peppers thoroughly. Slice them lengthwise, removing seeds if you want a milder flavor. Grate the cheese and set it aside. Slice the onion thinly, chop the tomato, and mince the garlic and ginger.
Cooking Process
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
In a medium-sized pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until they become translucent. Then, add minced garlic and ginger, stir-frying for about a minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Add Tomatoes and Chilies
Next, add the chopped tomatoes to the pot. Cook until the tomatoes begin to soften, releasing their juices. Then, add the sliced chili peppers to the mixture. Stir everything well to combine, coating the chilies in the aromatic mixture.
Step 3: Simmer
Pour in one cup of water and season with salt to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the chilies to soften.
Step 4: Add Cheese
After the chilies have softened, reduce the heat to low and add the grated cheese over the top of the simmered ingredients. Stir gently until the cheese melts and amalgamates with the sauce, creating a creamy consistency. Ensure the mixture doesn't boil, as this could cause the cheese to split.
Enjoying Your Meal
Serving Suggestions
Ema Datshi is best enjoyed fresh and hot. Serve it immediately after cooking, accompanied by a generous serving of steamed rice or Bhutanese red rice. The dish also pairs perfectly with side dishes like momos or a light vegetable salad.
Garnishing
If desired, garnish your Ema Datshi with freshly chopped coriander to add a touch of herbal freshness that complements the rich, spicy flavors.
Tasting Notes
As you enjoy your Ema Datshi, pay attention to the heat from the chilies, balanced by the creamy, rich cheese. Each bite carries the aromatic notes of sautéed onions, garlic, and ginger, making it a comforting and hearty meal.
Cooking Tips
- For a variation, experiment with different types of cheese, adjusting the quantity to achieve the desired creaminess.
- If you're a vegetarian, Ema Datshi is a fantastic option. It's inherently vegetarian, focusing purely on the vegetables and cheese.
- If you're sensitive to spice, consider reducing the number of chilies or removing the seeds before cooking.
Using A Cooking Timer
To perfect your Ema Datshi, use a cooking timer to manage each stage's timing effectively, ensuring perfectly cooked ingredients without overcooking.