Best Street Food In Bhutan: 10 Dishes You Must-Try!

Also, the local dishes in Bhutan come out with a whole lot of spices and flavors that can really blow your mind with a wholesome taste. So, get along and taste the street food in Bhutan whenever you land here. 

While you book the Bhutan packages, do not miss out on exploring the Bhutan street food that you need to taste there. Your vacation would not be complete without these savoring delicacies over there. 

Top 10 Street Food in Bhutan

So, let us start with the Bhutan street food that has won so many hearts with its mouthwatering taste. These foods are not just savored by the locals but enjoyed by the tourists as well. 

1. Momos
2. Thukpa
3. Yaksha Shakam
4. Jasha Maroo
5. Phaksha Paa
6. Ema Datshi
7. Shamu Datshi
8. Suja
9. Kewa Datshi
10. Goen Hogay 

1. Momos 

Also, the quantity in which it gets consumed makes it the staple food of Bhutan. However, the dish is originally a Tibetan delicacy that has found numerous homes. 

Whenever you think of trying Bhutanese cuisine, you cannot miss this iconic mouthwatering delicacy. To know how it gets made – it is a dumpling made of flour dough carrying some filling inside, usually of vegetables and mild spices and sometimes shredded chicken and other meat variants for non-vegetarian options.

So, if you are a keen lover of street food in Bhutan, don’t miss out on this one! You would definitely relish the taste and the way it is presented in the country. It is a popular Bhutanese Tibetan street food in Thimphu.

2. Thukpa

Ingredients like noodles, vegetables, and sometimes meat, like chicken or beef. The soup has a flavorful broth that makes it taste really good. Also, if you love spicy food, make it according to your own preference. 

Thukpa is not just the best Bhutan street food, but quite fulfilling as well, so you won’t feel hungry after eating a bowl of it. So, make sure you taste this amazing Bhutan local food while visiting the country. 

3. Yaksha Shakam 

It is made of Yak meat and eventually, the whole dish is prepared with yak cheese, spicy chili, and rice. It is often prepared during special occasions and celebrations with the whole family. You can also find this in some of the authentic restaurants in Bhutan. 

Travelers have a big appreciation for the traditional food in Bhutan and this one is enjoyed by everyone. So, if you ever get a chance to try this dish, don’t miss out on this combination of Bhutanese spices and the unique taste of yak meat. 

4. Jasha Maroo

You would definitely know about this popular dish as it is really tasty, spicy, flavorful, and easy to prepare as well. It is made of chilies, onions, tomatoes, and coriander leaves to give it a unique taste and the chicken is shredded or diced for the same. 

If you are preparing this dish, get ready to add a good amount of chicken in it as it requires a whole lot of it for a great taste. This is definitely known to be one of the great dishes in Bhutan that you can find easily. 

5. Phaksha Paa

When the stew is prepared, dried pork and green chili give more flavor to the dish. Also, the spices can vary according to your own taste. You must cook it in oil or butter to have a wholesome taste, get it stir-fried and serve it along with rice. 

Do not miss out on this amazing Bhutan local food that you can find easily in the markets. 

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6. Ema Datshi

Ema Datshi is a yummy Bhutanese dish that many people in Bhutan love to eat. It’s simple and delicious! 

The main ingredients are hot peppers (ema) and cheese (datshi). First, the hot peppers are cooked with some onions and tomatoes. Then, lots of cheese is added to make a creamy and spicy sauce. The cheese used is usually a local Bhutanese cheese called “datshi,” which gives the dish its name. 

The result is a flavorful and slightly spicy dish that is often served with rice. Ema Datshi is a popular and comforting food in Bhutan, enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. If you like a bit of heat and lots of cheesy goodness, Ema Datshi is definitely a dish worth trying!

7. Shamu Datshi

But, the only difference is that the main ingredient would be the mushroom and others would be chillies, onions, garlic and tomatoes. So, enjoy this dish served with red rice with some great taste. 

Shamu Datshi is not only a tasty meal but also a representation of the Bhutanese culinary heritage, showcasing the use of local ingredients and traditional cooking methods. It is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, offering a delightful taste of Bhutanese cuisine.

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8. Suja

Suja is a butter tea made from fermented butter that comes from Yak or cow milk. It is usually salty in flavor and it depends on the amount of butter that has been added to prepare the tea. 

The tea is then churned or stirred vigorously to achieve a frothy texture. Suja is often served in small cups, and it is known for its unique taste that combines the warmth of tea with the creamy goodness of butter. In Bhutan, Suja is not just a beverage; it is a symbol of hospitality and is commonly offered to guests as a gesture of welcome.

9. Kewa Datshi

But, many of the tourists already know about it and taste this one especially. It is made of potatoes, cheese, butter, chillies, salt and tomatoes. Firstly, you need to cut the potatoes and fry them to perfection. 

Then, other ingredients get mixed into it, but the focus would remain on the potatoes only to get it made properly. So, make sure you are trying it for a great taste and exploring the culture through this traditional food in Bhutan. Do visit the restaurants in Thimphu for a great taste. 

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10. Goen Hogay 

If you are looking for something healthy yet tasty, then this can be your go to dish in Bhutan. The ingredients also include chillies, onions, cilantro, tomatoes, Sichuan and pepper. So, do try this one as well for the local culture to be experienced wholly.

Where to Find Street Food in Bhutan

• Himalayan Street Food Market: Located near the clock tower, this bustling market is a hotspot for various street food vendors. You can discover things to eat in Bhutan like momos, ema datshi, and more.
• Norzin Lam: This main street is lined with food stalls and carts offering a mix of traditional and modern street food in Bhutan. It’s a great place to grab a quick bite while exploring the city.

Paro

• Paro Weekend Market: Open on weekends, this vibrant market features local produce, handicrafts, and a variety of street food in Bhutan. Try the local fried snacks and sweets here.
• Food Stalls near Paro Dzong: As you explore the dzong (fortress), keep an eye out for small food stalls selling delicious momos and other snacks.

Punakha

• Punakha Dzong Area: Vendors set up shops around the dzong, where you can find tasty street food. Look for fried snacks and traditional Bhutanese dishes like phaksha paa.
• Local Fairs and Festivals: During local festivals, food stalls pop up, offering an array of traditional dishes that reflect the region’s culinary heritage.

Bumthang

• Jakar Market: This local market is known for its lively atmosphere and variety of food stalls. You can try local delicacies and snacks while mingling with locals.
• Street Vendors: As you explore the scenic Bumthang valley, look for street vendors selling handmade products and traditional foods.

Trashigang

• Trashigang Town Center: Stroll through the town center where vendors sell fresh produce, fried foods, and local snacks. It’s an excellent spot to experience the local food culture.
• Cultural Festivals: If you visit during a festival, you’ll find numerous food stalls offering traditional dishes, allowing you to taste the local flavors.

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Tips for Enjoying Street Food in Bhutan

• Ask Locals for Recommendations: Engage with locals to find out which stalls are the most popular, offer the freshest food, and provide a reasonable cost of street food in Bhutan.
• Look for Crowds: Busy stalls usually indicate good food and a higher turnover, ensuring freshness.
• Be Adventurous: Don’t hesitate to try new dishes and flavors, as Bhutanese recipes can be a delightful surprise.
• Mind Hygiene: While many vendors maintain cleanliness, it’s wise to observe how food is prepared and served to ensure a safe eating experience.

Conclusion