Ema Datshi Tarts

Ema Datshi is the national dish of Bhutan, renowned for its delightful combination of spicy chili and creamy cheese. Colloquially, it's often referred to as the "chili and cheese stew." In this variation, we are going to create bite-sized Ema Datshi Tarts that capture the essence of the dish with a modern twist. These tarts are perfect as appetizers or snacks and bring the authentic flavors of Bhutanese cuisine into the convenience of tart form.

Ingredients

• Pastry shells - 12 small
• Green chili - 5 large, sliced
• Red chili - 5 large, sliced
• Cheese - 200g, traditionally made with yak cheese, but gouda or feta work well
• Onion - 1 medium, thinly sliced
• Tomato - 2 medium, diced
• Butter - 2 tablespoons
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Ginger - 1 inch, grated
• Water - 1 cup
• Salt - to taste
• Black pepper - to taste

Preparation

Prepare the Filling

1. In a pan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Add the green chili and red chili. Stir well and cook for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add tomato and cook until they soften.
5. Pour in the water and bring to a simmer.
6. Add the cheese, stirring continuously until fully melted.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as desired.

Prepare the Tarts

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Arrange the pastry shells on a baking tray.
3. Spoon the Ema Datshi mixture into each shell, filling generously.
4. Bake the tarts in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the pastry is golden and crispy.

Cooking Process

The entire cooking time for these Ema Datshi Tarts is approximately 30 minutes. Use a cooking timer to manage each step effectively and ensure all components are perfectly cooked.

Enjoying Your Ema Datshi Tarts

These tarts are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, allowing you to savor the creamy, spicy filling with a crisp tart shell. They pair excellently with a light salad or as part of a larger spread featuring traditional Bhutanese sides. Consider enjoying them with a cool yogurt dip to balance the heat, enhancing the rich flavors and textures of these delicious tarts. Perfect for gatherings or as an exotic treat for your taste buds!

Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm as appetizers at a dinner party.
• Pair with a yogurt-based dip for added creaminess.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro or spring onions for a burst of freshness.
• Complement with a side of simple greens to lighten the palate.

Embrace the unique flavors of Bhutan with these delightful Ema Datshi Tarts, bringing a comforting yet fiery experience to your dining table.