Bhutan, a beautiful country lying amidst the Himalayan range, attracts several tourists every month. Once you visit the destination of Bhutan, a beautiful paradise will be open for you. Ethereal mountain views, lush greenery, beautiful wildlife, and plants are everywhere in this last Himalayan kingdom.
Bhutan is one of the countries which have preserved its culture to this day. They have huge respect for their tradition and do their utmost to not lose the authentic beauty of the kingdom even while modernizing.
The traditional food of Bhutan is one of the most important parts of the culture. If you visit Bhutan but didn’t try the authentic traditional foods, you have missed a big part of your trip. You can feel the simplicity and balanced quality of Bhutan's food culture. Treat your taste buds with some of the most delicious traditional foods of Bhutan.
Traditional foods
Ema Datshi: This popular traditional dish of Bhutan also the national food of Bhutan has two key ingredients, Chilli, and Cheese. They blend each other creating a perfect taste that can be eaten with red rice.
Kewa Datshi: Yet another famous dish of Bhutan with key ingredients of Potato and Cheese, Kawa Datshi. Bhutanese enjoy the dish as main course as well as side dish.
Phaksha Paa: This is stir-fried pork that gives a tantalizing mix of flavor with the spice of Bhutan.
Jasha Maroo: Jasha Maroo is something made of chicken and chili. This popular traditional dish of Bhutan showcases its flavourful Bhutan taste with spice.
Red rice: In every Bhutanese household it is very common to have rice in their daily diet. They eat rice regularly with side dishes. And red rice stands out the most with its cultural significance. Red rice is grown in the mountain region of Bhutan and is super healthy due to the use of traditional farming methods.
Momo: The dish is famous among both its locals and tourists. They typically make dough stuffed with fillings based on your preference can be very delicious.
Dining Etiquette of Bhutan
When eating with the local people of Bhutan you must be aware of dining etiquette to show respect.
- It is customary to eat with hands. It is believed that it will bring more taste to the food and help you connect with the food.
- Use your right hand to eat the food. Some people in Bhutan do not use the left hand due to it being termed as uncleaned.
- Wait for the meal to be served in front of everyone and before starting make sure the host has started eating before you begin.
Culinary Influence
Bhutan is known for its authentic traditional foods with a unique identity. However, you will still be able to see food culture influenced by its neighbouring countries like India, Tibet, and China.
Indian cuisine: Just like Indian foods famous for Spices, Turmeric, and Cumins, Bhutanese cuisine shares similarities. They are famous for simple spicy foods.
Chinese cuisine: Bhutanese cuisine is influenced by Chinese cuisine. They have similarities of using Dumplings and Noodles.
Tibetan cuisine: From the use of Yak Butter and Cheese, momos you can see similarities in Tibetan and Bhutanese cuisines.
Conclusion
Once you are in Bhutan, you must not miss the tasty traditional food. From national food to momos, you will have options to choose from. Be more adventurous with your food and do a favor to your taste buds. Bhutan food culture will take you on a new journey of flavors. It is undeniable that these foods are healthy as much as tasty. Follow the dining etiquette to get the most out of your trip.
