What are the typical dishes to try in Bhutan?
Bhutanese cuisine, known for being very spicy, features must-try dishes: ema datshi (cheese and chili peppers, the national dish), momos (stuffed dumplings), phaksha paa (pork with dried chilies), and red rice (local red rice variety).
Bhutan's Emblematic Dishes
- Ema datshi : the national dish par excellence, composed of green chili peppers simmered in yak cheese. Served daily in Bhutanese households.
- Momos : these steamed dumplings come with fillings of meat (pork, beef) or vegetables, accompanied by a spicy sauce.
- Phaksha paa : pork dish simmered with dried red chili peppers and radishes, typical of family meals.
- Red rice : this locally grown red rice accompanies most meals and has a distinctive hazelnut flavor.
Key Points About Bhutanese Cuisine
Local gastronomy favors fresh chili peppers and yak cheese. Dishes are generally very spicy — restaurants can adjust the seasoning for Western palates upon request.
Local Agency's Advice
First taste the dishes in small quantities to acclimate your palate. Always accompany your meals with salted butter tea, which soothes the sensation of spice.