Bhutanese Food

Taste the Flavors of Bhutan

Experience the unique spices and traditions of Bhutanese cuisine

Traditional Cooking

Traditional Bhutanese Dishes

From fiery ema datshi to hearty buckwheat noodles

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Bhutanese Cuisine

Discover the rich and spicy flavors of Bhutanese cuisine, where every dish tells a story of tradition, culture, and the country's love for chili peppers. From the national dish Ema Datshi to warming momos, experience the authentic tastes of the Himalayas.

Ema Datshi

Ema Datshi

National Dish

The national dish of Bhutan - a spicy stew made with green chilies and cheese. This iconic dish represents the heart of Bhutanese cuisine.

Key Ingredients

  • Green chilies
  • Yak or cow cheese
  • Butter
  • Onions
Momos

Momos

Popular Snack

Steamed dumplings filled with minced meat or vegetables, served with spicy ezay sauce. A beloved street food and restaurant favorite.

Varieties

  • Beef momos
  • Vegetable momos
  • Cheese momos
Phaksha Paa

Phaksha Paa

Traditional

Pork cooked with spicy red chilies and mountain vegetables. A hearty dish that showcases Bhutanese love for meat and spices.

Served With

  • Red rice
  • Radishes
  • Spinach
Jasha Maru

Jasha Maru

Spicy

Spicy minced chicken dish with tomatoes, onions, and chilies. Popular in both homes and restaurants.

Best Enjoyed

  • With red rice
  • As a side dish
  • During festivals
Buckwheat Noodles

Puta (Buckwheat Noodles)

Regional Specialty

Hand-made buckwheat noodles from Bumthang region, served with vegetables or in soup.

Preparation

  • Hand-pulled
  • Locally sourced
  • Traditional recipe
Suja

Suja (Butter Tea)

Traditional Beverage

Traditional butter tea made with yak butter, tea, and salt. A warming drink perfect for cold mountain weather.

Ingredients

  • Yak butter
  • Tea leaves
  • Salt

Dining Tips

Spice Level

Bhutanese food is known for its spiciness. Don't hesitate to request a milder version of dishes.

Dining Etiquette

It's customary to eat with your right hand, though restaurants provide cutlery for tourists.

Best Time to Eat

Lunch is the main meal of the day, usually served between 12-2 PM.

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