Bhutan’s national dish is ema datshi. It is a simple yet comforting, delicious and spicy dish that has been loved by people not only in Bhutan but even beyond borders. It is made from very few and simple ingredients and can be easily prepared at home. It is especially amazing to eat during winters as it provides warmth.





Ingredients Used in Ema Datshi

Ingredients Used in Ema Datshi

Chillies and cheese are the main ingredients in ema datshi. Chillies provide the heat to the dish while cheese (datshi) balances the spiciness. Datshi is difficult to find, so processed or feta cheese can be used in place of it. Onions, garlic, water and butter also used to enhance its texture and flavour.



Step by Step Method to Prepare Ema Datshi at Home

Wash and cut the chillies lengthwise.

• Wash and cut the chillies lengthwise.


• Add sliced onions and garlic to a pan with water.


• Simmer these with the sliced chillies.


• After the chillies become soft, add butter.


• Then add cheese and cook on low flame till the cheese melts and forms a creamy texture.


• Add salt if needed.

Tips for Adjusting Spice and ServingAs chillies are the main ingredient of ema datshi, it can get extremely spicy. It lowers its spiciness, seeds from the chillies should be removed. Instead of only using chillies, bell peepers can be added as well.

Ema datshi is traditionally served with hot with red rice, Tingmo (a soft bread) or Khur-le (buckwheat pancakes)



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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Ema Datshi made of?
Ema Datshi is mainly prepared using chillies and cheese, along with onions, garlic, butter, water and salt.

Is Ema Datshi vegetarian?
Yes, Ema Datshi is a vegetarian dish and is often enjoyed as a staple meal in Bhutan.

What cheese can be used instead of datshi?
Processed cheese, feta cheese or even a mild mozzarella can be used as substitutes.

Is Ema Datshi very spicy?
Yes, it is traditionally quite spicy, but the heat can be adjusted by removing chilli seeds or adding bell peppers.