January 22, 2025
Ema Datshi Recipe – The National Dish of Bhutan

CM Content Team
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January 22, 2025
CM Content Team
Bhutan is a landlocked paradise in the lap of the Himalayas. Bhutan enchants visitors with its serene landscapes, ancient monasteries, and rich cultural heritage. Yet, what truly leaves an indelible impression on travellers is its cuisine. At the heart of Bhutanese culinary traditions lies Ema Datshi, the national dish of Bhutan. It is a fiery, cheesy stew that encapsulates the country’s love for simplicity and bold flavours.
In this blog, we take you on a flavourful journey, teaching you how to make Ema Datshi at home while delving into its cultural significance. Whether you're a foodie eager to explore global cuisines or a travel enthusiast dreaming of visiting Bhutan, this Ema Datshi recipe promises a taste of Himalayan tradition.
Ema Datshi, which translates to "chillies and cheese" in Dzongkha (Bhutan's national language), is much more than just a dish—it’s a way of life in Bhutan. Served at nearly every meal, this comfort food embodies the Bhutanese love for chillies, which are treated as a vegetable rather than a spice.
In Bhutanese households, preparing Ema Datshi is often a communal activity. From chopping fresh chillies to melting local yak cheese, it brings families together over shared traditions. The dish is also a staple during celebrations and festivals, reflecting its integral role as the national dish of Bhutan.
The magic of the Ema Datshi recipe lies in its simplicity. Despite being made with just a handful of ingredients, the dish packs a punch with its bold, spicy, and cheesy flavour profile. It’s a delightful paradox—comfort food with a fiery kick!
This versatility also makes Ema Datshi a favourite among vegetarians, as it doesn’t rely on complex seasonings or non-vegetarian ingredients. Its authenticity shines through the natural flavours of its components.
While trying the Ema Datshi recipe at home is an adventure, nothing compares to savouring it amidst Bhutan’s stunning landscapes. With these Club Mahindra Resorts in Bhutan, you can immerse yourself in authentic Bhutanese culture and cuisine:
Ema Datshi recipe is an invitation to explore Bhutanese culture. The national dish of Bhutan offers a glimpse into the heart of Bhutan’s culinary traditions. So, gather your ingredients, prepare this exotic dish, and embark on a flavourful journey from your kitchen. Better yet, let the flavours of Bhutan inspire your next travel adventure. Book your stay with Club Mahindra Resorts and savour Ema Datshi in the land where it all began!
Mahindra Holidays & Resorts India Ltd. (MHRIL), a part of Leisure and Hospitality sector of the Mahindra Group, offers quality family holidays primarily through vacation ownership memberships and brings to the industry values such as reliability, trust and customer satisfaction. Started in 1996, the company's flagship brand ‘Club Mahindra’, today has over 290,000 members , who can holiday at 140+ resorts in India and abroad.