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18 Popular Traditional Dishes of Bhutan

1. Ema Datshi

2. Kewa Datshi

3. Phaksha Paa

4. Jasha Maroo

5. Hoentoe

6. Goep (Tripe)

7. Shakam Paa

8. Puta

9. Khur-le

10. Kharang

11. Red Rice

12. Suja

13. Zow Shungo

14. Sikam Paa

15. Gondo Datshi

16. Momos

17. Doma

18. Jaju

Conclusion
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Traditional Food of Bhutan You Must-Try: 18 Best Dishes

Went on a trip and didn’t try the local cuisine? Is that really a trip? Big No! I mean, what’s the point of traveling if you’re not treating your taste buds to the local flavors? The same goes for Bhutan.

Bhutanese cuisines is a delightful exploration of flavors, traditions, and cultural heritage. Bhutanese food reflects the country’s unique identity. It shows what makes Bhutan special. The dishes are a mix of tasty spices, fresh local ingredients, and traditional cooking methods.

Bhutan food culture focuses on simple, balanced, and healthy ingredients. Because of this, it is known around the world for its unique flavors and health benefits. From spicy chili peppers to filling stews, Bhutan local food shows the rich culture of the country. Sounds interesting, right? So, what are you waiting for? Book your Bhutan tour packages now and treat your taste buds!

  • Ema Datshi
  • Kewa Datshi
  • Phaksha Paa
  • Jasha Maroo
  • Hoentoe
  • Goep (Tripe)
  • Shakam Paa
  • Puta
  • Khur-le
  • Kharang
  • Red Rice
  • Suja
  • Zow Shungo
  • Sikam Paa
  • Gondo Datshi
  • Momos
  • Jaju
  • Doma

Suggested Read: 15 Best Indian Restaurants In Bhutan To Try In 2024

1. Ema Datshi

Ema Datshi is the famous traditional food in Bhutan and is beloved by locals and visitors alike. This spicy and flavorful dish has two key ingredients: ema, meaning chili in Dzongkha (the Bhutanese language), and datshi, which refers to cheese. The chillies used in Ema Datshi are typically large green or red, providing a fiery kick to the dish. 

The cheese is usually locally made, melting into a creamy consistency that balances the spiciness of the chillies. Ema Datshi is often enjoyed with red rice, a staple in Bhutan local food. This dish highlights the unique flavors and culinary traditions of Bhutan.

You can also prepare Ema Datshi Cheesecake which is one of the must-try desserts in Bhutan inspired by Ema Datshi. It combines cream cheese, local cheese, and a hint of green chilies, creating a savory-sweet flavor that’s both delightful and distinct.

  • Ingredients: Chili peppers, cheese, onions, garlic, butter/oil, and salt.
  • Where to Eat: Bhutan Kitchen – Thimphu, Folk Heritage Museum Restaurant – Thimphu, Ambient Cafe – Thimphu
  • Cost: 100-300 BTN

2. Kewa Datshi

Kewa Datshi is another famous traditional food in Bhutan, beloved in Bhutan local food culture. “Kewa” means potatoes, while “Datshi” refers to cheese. This popular traditional dish combines boiled potatoes with a creamy cheese sauce, typically made from locally produced cheese. The cheese melts to a smooth consistency, perfectly coating the potatoes and giving the dish its unique, rich flavor. 

Additional ingredients like onions, garlic, and spices are often added to enhance the taste, making Kewa Datshi a versatile and hearty choice among popular traditional dishes of Bhutan. Enjoyed as a main course or side dish, it’s a must-try for anyone exploring Bhutanese cuisines.

  • Ingredients: Potatoes, cheese, chili peppers
  • Where to Eat: Zombala Restaurant, Sonam Trophel Restaurant, Chh’a Bistro
  • Cost: 100-300 BTN

Suggested Read: 20 Places to Visit in Bhutan for Extraordinary Experience

3. Phaksha Paa

Phaksha Paa is a famous traditional food in Bhutan and a staple in Bhutan local food culture. “Phaksha” means pork, and “Paa” refers to a stir-fry. This must-try Bhutanese dish is prepared by marinating pork chunks in a blend of spices, including ginger, garlic, chili, and Bhutanese red pepper. 

The pork is then stir-fried with onions, green chilies, and other vegetables, creating a tantalizing mix of flavors that bring out the bold and spicy essence of Bhutanese cuisines.

Phaksha Paa is commonly enjoyed with red rice or as a side dish alongside popular traditional dishes of Bhutan, adding a hearty, meaty element to any Bhutanese meal.

  • Ingredients: Pork, oil, chili peppers, radishes
  • Where to Eat: Zombala Restaurant, Ambient Cafe, Bukhari Restaurant
  • Cost: 400-500 BTN

4. Jasha Maroo

Jasha Maroo is a flavorful highlight of Bhutan food culture, featuring spicy chicken stew at its best. “Jasha” means chicken, and “Maroo” translates to chili. This popular Bhutanese dish is prepared by simmering chicken pieces with onions, garlic, ginger, tomatoes, green chilies, and Bhutanese red pepper, creating a rich and aromatic stew.

The bold spices and fiery chilies give Jasha Maroo its distinct taste and heat, often enjoyed with red rice or as a side to other Bhutanese staples. This dish truly showcases the bold flavors and spice profiles that are characteristic of Bhutanese cuisine, offering a delightful culinary experience.

  • Ingredients: Chicken, chili peppers, onions
  • Where to Eat: Folk Heritage Museum Restaurant, Gangtey Palace Restaurant
  • Cost: 300-450 BTN

5. Hoentoe

Hoentoe is a famous traditional food in Bhutan that both locals and visitors enjoy. This unique Bhutanese dumpling is filled with a mix of turnip greens, spinach, cheese, and spices, then steamed or boiled to perfection. 

Hoentoe’s distinct half-moon shape sets it apart, and it’s often served with a tomato-based sauce or a spicy chili dip, adding an extra kick of flavor. This satisfying dish highlights Bhutanese cuisine’s creativity and flavors, making it a must-try for anyone exploring the local food scene.

  • Ingredients: Turnip, greens, cheese, spices
  • Where to Eat: Sonam Trophel Restaurant, Zombala 2 Restaurant, Gangtey Palace Restaurant
  • Cost: 300-500 BTN

6. Goep (Tripe)

Goep, or tripe, is a popular traditional food of Bhutan. It is made from the stomach lining of cattle or other animals, which is thoroughly cleaned and cooked to create a tender and flavorful meat dish. Goep is typically prepared by boiling the tripe with various spices and herbs until it becomes soft and succulent. 

The dish is known for its rich and complex flavors, with a slight hint of gaminess. It is often enjoyed with rice or traditional Bhutanese bread. Goep is a unique and adventurous dish that allows visitors to experience the authentic flavors of Bhutanese cuisines.

  • Ingredients: stew, rice, oils, species 
  • Where to Eat: Khuru Village Resort, Local Festivals and Events, Chh’a Bistro & Bar
  • Cost: 100-300 BTN

Suggested Read: Backpacking in Bhutan: The Most Awaited Adventure

7. Shakam Paa

Shakam Paa is one of the popular traditional dishes of Bhutan that combines dried beef strips with spicy chili peppers and vegetables. This flavorful and savory dish highlights Bhutanese cuisine’s classic flavors. 

The beef is marinated and sun-dried to achieve a chewy, slightly smoky texture, then stir-fried with vegetables like onions, garlic, and green chili peppers. The tender beef, spicy heat, and aromatic vegetables make Shakam Paa a delicious, satisfying meal. Often served with red rice, it offers a taste of Bhutan’s culinary delights.

  • Ingredients: Oil, chili pepper, beef
  • Where to Eat: Bhutan Kitchen, Tashi Namgay Grand, Local Homestays
  • Cost: 300-350 BTN

8. Puta

Puta is a traditional Bhutanese dish commonly enjoyed as a snack or side dish, or part of Bhutanese breakfast dishes. It is made from buckwheat flour mixed with water and kneaded into a dough. The dough is then rolled out and cut into small pieces, steamed or boiled until cooked. 

The result is a soft and slightly chewy dumpling-like food. Puta can be eaten independently or served with various accompanying must try Bhutanese dishes, such as vegetable curries or meat stews. It has a unique nutty flavour and is often enjoyed for its simplicity and wholesome taste. Try Puta to experience a traditional Bhutanese delight.

  • Ingredients: Vegetables, spices, noodles
  • Where to Eat: Khuru Village Resort, Local Festivals and Events, Chh’a Bistro & Bar

Cost: 100-200 BTN

9. Khur-le

Khur-le is a popular traditional food of Bhutan made with homemade buckwheat noodles in a flavorful broth. The noodles are prepared by kneading buckwheat flour with water and rolling the dough into thin strips. The broth typically includes vegetables, meat, or dried yak cheese, along with spices to enhance the flavor.

Known for its hearty and comforting nature, Khur-le is perfect for chilly weather. The noodles have a slightly nutty taste and satisfying texture, making this traditional Bhutanese delicacy a main course that truly represents the country’s culinary heritage. It’s a great choice to include in Bhutanese breakfast dishes for a wholesome start to your day.

  • Ingredients: Bread, wheat, flour
  • Where to Eat: Local markets, street food stalls, tea houses
  • Cost: 100-200 BTN

Suggested Read: Bhutan Hill Stations: Top 10 Amazing Spots And Things to Do

10. Kharang

Kharang is a famous traditional food in Bhutan loved for its unique blend of flavours and textures. It is a delightful combination of crispy rice, butter, and sugar, cooked together to create a crunchy and sweet treat. The rice is first soaked in water, then dried and fried until golden brown and crispy. 

Butter and sugar are added to the fried rice, giving it a caramelised sweetness and a rich, buttery taste. Kharang is often enjoyed as a snack or dessert, commonly served during festivals and special occasions in Bhutan. Its addictive crunch and sweet notes make it a favourite among locals and visitors alike.

  • Ingredients: porridge, butter, milk
  • Where to Eat: Khuru Village Resort, Local Festivals, and Events, Chh’a Bistro & Bar
  • Cost: 150-250 BTN

11. Red Rice

Red rice is a traditional food of Bhutan in Bhutan and holds great cultural significance. It is a variety of rice unique to the region, known for its distinctive reddish-brown color and nutty flavor. The reddish hue comes from the bran layer, which contains antioxidants and nutrients.

Red rice is grown organically in the mountainous terrains of Bhutan, using traditional farming methods. In Bhutanese food, red rice is commonly used in various dishes, including soups, stews, and main courses. It has a slightly chewy texture and a subtle earthy taste that pairs well with the robust flavors of Bhutanese spices and herbs.

As one of the must try Bhutanese dishes, red rice is not only delicious but also healthy, as it is a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Rice cakes can be prepared in Bhutan by sweetening them with sugar and flavoring them with coconut or fruit. They are soft and chewy, making them one of the must-try desserts in Bhutan for a delightful treat during festivities.

  • Ingredients: Flavored rice, staple rice, spices
  • Where to Eat: Local Markets, Tea Houses
  • Cost: 100-200 BTN

12. Suja

Suja, also known as Bhutanese butter tea, is a traditional hot beverage with a special place in Bhutanese culture. It combines salted yak butter, tea leaves, and water. The mixture is then boiled and churned until it forms a frothy, creamy texture. Suja is a staple in Bhutanese households and is often served as a welcoming gesture to guests.

This unique beverage has a rich, savory flavor with a hint of saltiness from the butter. It provides warmth and comfort, especially in the cold mountainous regions of Bhutan. Suja is not only enjoyed for its taste but is also believed to have numerous health benefits, such as aiding digestion and providing energy.

When visiting Bhutan, trying a cup of Suja is a delightful way to experience the famous traditional food in Bhutan and savor a traditional Bhutanese beverage. It’s often enjoyed alongside Bhutanese breakfast dishes, making it a perfect start to your day.

You can also make Suja Pudding made from Bhutanese butter tea (Suja), this pudding incorporates the flavors of tea, butter, and sugar, giving it a rich and unique taste. It’s one of the must-try desserts in Bhutan perfect for cold weather.

  • Ingredients: Yak butter, tea leaves, butter tea
  • Where to Eat: Traditional festivals, Local Markets, homestays
  • Cost: 50-100 BTN

Suggested Read: 12 Treks In Bhutan: A Journey To Remember In The Himalayas 2024

13. Zow Shungo

Zow Shungo is a popular Bhutanese dish made from leftover rice and vegetables. It is a flavorful and hearty dish showcasing Bhutanese cuisine’s resourcefulness and creativity. The dish typically includes a variety of vegetables, such as cabbage, carrots, peas, and beans, stir-fried with spices like garlic, ginger, and chili. The vegetables are then mixed with the cooked rice and seasoned with soy sauce or other condiments for added flavor.

Zow Shungo is a delicious way to reduce food waste and make a satisfying meal from simple ingredients. It is often a satisfying lunch or dinner option, balancing flavors and textures. 

When in Bhutan, don’t miss the opportunity to taste this unique and flavorful dish that reflects the Bhutanese tradition of making the most out of ingredients. It’s also a great option for those exploring Bhutanese breakfast dishes, making it a versatile choice throughout the day.

  • Ingredients: A mixture of leftover rice, vegetables, and cheese
  • Where to Eat: Khuru Village Resort, Local Festivals and Events, Chh’a Bistro & Bar
  • Cost: 150-200 BTN

14. Sikam Paa

Sikam Paa is a mouthwatering Bhutanese dish featuring dried pork stir-fried with aromatic spices and vegetables. It is a popular and flavorful dish showcasing Bhutan’s rich culinary heritage and is considered a part of the traditional food of Bhutan. To prepare Sikam Paa, thin slices of dried pork are marinated with spices such as garlic, ginger, chili, and turmeric. The marinated pork is then stir-fried with onions, tomatoes, and green chilies until tender and infused with the flavors of the spices.

The result is a delectable dish with a perfect balance of savory, spicy, and tangy flavors. Sikam Paa is often enjoyed with rice or traditional Bhutanese flatbread, known as roti. When visiting Bhutan, be sure to try this tantalizing dish that offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes. It’s a must-try when exploring the best restaurants in Bhutan.

  • Ingredients: Pork belly, spices, potatoes as per choice
  • Where to Eat: Resorts, Traditional Events, Chh’a Bistro & Bar
  • Cost: 100-150 BTN

15. Gondo Datshi

Gondo Datshi is a delicious Bhutanese dish that combines mushrooms and cheese in a flavorful sauce. It is a popular vegetarian option in Bhutan food and is known for its unique taste and texture, making it a standout among traditional food of Bhutan. To prepare Gondo Datshi, fresh mushrooms are sautéed with onions, garlic, and spices until tender. Then, slices of local cheese, usually made from cow’s milk, are added to the pan and melted to create a creamy and rich sauce.

The dish is typically seasoned with Bhutanese spices like chili powder or chili flakes to add a hint of spiciness. Gondo Datshi is often served with rice or traditional Bhutanese bread. If you’re a fan of mushrooms and cheese, this dish is a must-try when exploring Bhutanese cuisine and is commonly found in the best restaurants in Bhutan.

  • Ingredients: Mushrooms, cheese, chili peppers
  • Where to Eat: Tourist Areas, Local Restaurants
  • Cost: 150-200 BTN

Suggested Read: 10 Travel Tips For Bhutan: Packing, Permits, And Practical Advice

16. Momos

Momos are a beloved dish in Bhutanese cuisine, known for their delectable flavors and delightful appearance. These dumplings are made by wrapping a thin sheet of dough around a filling that can vary from meat to vegetables and cheese. The filled dumplings are then steamed or fried until they become tender and succulent.

In Bhutan, momos are popular street food and can be found in local markets, roadside stalls, and in the best restaurants in Bhutan. They are often served with a spicy dipping sauce made from chili and tomato. Whether you prefer the meaty flavors of pork or the vegetarian options, this is one of the must try Bhutanese dishes to experience the country’s true flavours.

  • Ingredients: Meat and vegetables, a dipping sauce of tomatoes and coriander
  • Where to Eat: Streets of Bhutan, markets, restaurants
  • Cost: 100 BTN

17. Doma

Doma is a traditional and unique chewing habit in Bhutan, where people chew a combination of betel nut, betel leaf, slaked lime, and various other ingredients. This practice is part of the traditional food of Bhutan and is deeply rooted in Bhutanese society, often seen as a symbol of hospitality and socializing. The betel nut, also known as areca nut, is sliced and wrapped in a betel leaf along with lime paste and other flavorings like cardamom, cloves, or tobacco.

Doma is believed to have stimulant and digestive properties and is commonly offered to guests as a gesture of welcome. While Doma is an integral part of Bhutanese culture, it’s important to note that excessive chewing of betel nut can have adverse health effects, and it is recommended to consume it in moderation.

  • Ingredients: Betel nut served with various accompaniments like paan leaves and spices.
  • Where to Eat: Street Food Stalls, Local markets, Ambient Cafe & Bakery
  • Cost: 100-150 BTN

Suggested Read: 9 Valleys In Bhutan: Paradise For Nature Lovers

18. Jaju

Jaju is a traditional Bhutanese snack that holds a special place in the culture of traditional food of Bhutan. It is a deep-fried pastry made from a dough of refined flour, butter, and water. The dough is rolled into thin sheets, cut into small rectangular shapes, and deep-fried until golden and crispy.

Jaju is often enjoyed as a tea-time snack or served during festive occasions and celebrations. The crispy texture and buttery flavor of Jaju make it a delightful treat that both locals and visitors love. It can be enjoyed independently or paired with a hot cup of butter tea, offering a perfect balance of flavors.

  • Ingredients: Dried yak cheese, often used as a snack or in cooking, red rice
  • Where to Eat: Chimi Lakhang Cafeteria, Babesa Village Restaurant
  • Cost: 200-250 BTN

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Conclusion

In conclusion, the traditional food of Bhutan offers a unique and flavorful experience that reflects the country’s rich culture and heritage. From hearty dishes like Ema Datshi to delightful snacks like Puta and Khur-le, each dish tells a story of tradition and local ingredients. Exploring the traditional food of Bhutan allows visitors to immerse themselves in the culinary practices of the Bhutanese people, showcasing their love for fresh produce and bold flavors. Don’t miss out on the must try Bhutanese dishes when you visit, as they are sure to leave a lasting impression on your taste buds and enrich your understanding of this beautiful nation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)

Q: What ingredients are commonly used in traditional Bhutanese food?

Q:Are there vegetarian options available in traditional Bhutanese cuisine?

Q:What is the significance of butter tea in Bhutanese culture?

Q:How spicy is traditional food in Bhutan?

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