Ema Dashi is usually the basis of many different other dishes, consisting spicy stew cooked with chili peppers and cheese, offering a unique blend of fiery and creamy flavors. The peppers, which are the main ingredient, are either fresh or dried, and the cheese used is usually homemade from cow or yak milk, providing a distinct, rich taste. Beyond its basic version, Ema Datshi can be varied by adding different ingredients such as mushrooms, potatoes, or green beans, creating dishes like Kewa Datshi, Shamu Datshi, and others. These variations not only add different flavors and textures but also cater to a wider range of palates while maintaining the dish's essential character. Ema Datshi is typically served with red rice, a Bhutanese staple, which complements the stew’s bold flavors and helps temper its heat.
Ingredients:
10 oz. chili peppers
1 red onion , sliced
1 tomato , sliced
3 cloves garlic , crushed
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
10 oz cheese , grated
Salt to taste
1 cup water
Instructions
Melt butter in a pan. Mix in the onion, tomato, and chilies. Toss them in the water after a brisk toss. Season with salt and pepper. Cook, covered, until the peppers are soft.
Remove from the fire and add the cheese, allowing it to melt in the residual heat.
Serve it with either red or white rice.