Embark on a journey to the mystical land of Bhutan, where the air is filled with the essence of happiness and the cuisine is a reflection of the vibrant culture. Among the many culinary treasures that Bhutan has to offer, one dish stands out for its unique combination of flavors and textures – Shamu Datshi. This traditional Bhutanese recipe brings together the richness of cheese with the earthiness of mushrooms, creating a symphony of taste that is both comforting and exhilarating. Join us as we unravel the secrets of Bhutanese kitchens and explore the art of crafting Shamu Datshi, a dish that not only satisfies the palate but also embodies the spirit of Bhutanese gastronomy.

Here's a simple recipe for Bhutanese Shamu Datshi:

Bhutanese Shamu Datshi Recipe: Mushroom Cooked with Cheese and Chilies

Ingredients:

• 250g fresh mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
• 200g Bhutanese red or green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
• 200g Bhutanese cheese (preferably yak cheese), grated
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium-sized tomato, chopped
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the Mushrooms:Clean the mushrooms thoroughly and slice them into medium-sized pieces.

Saute the Vegetables:

1-Heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.

2-Add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent.

Add Chilies:Add the finely chopped Bhutanese chilies to the pan. Stir well and cook for a few minutes until the chilies release their flavors.

Introduce Mushrooms:Toss in the sliced mushrooms and continue to cook. Allow the mushrooms to cook until they release their moisture and become tender.

Incorporate Tomatoes:Add the chopped tomatoes to the pan. Cook until the tomatoes are softened and contribute to the overall sauce.

Cheesy Goodness:Gradually sprinkle the grated Bhutanese cheese into the pan. Stir continuously to ensure that the cheese melts and forms a creamy consistency.

Season and Simmer:Season the mixture with salt according to your taste. Allow the dish to simmer on low heat until the flavors meld together, and the sauce reaches the desired thickness.

Serve Warm:

1-Once the Shamu Datshi has reached the desired consistency, remove it from heat.

2-Serve the dish warm, paired with Bhutanese red rice or any preferred grain.

Note: Adjust the quantity of chilies according to your spice preference, as Bhutanese cuisine tends to be quite spicy. Feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms or cheese based on availability.

Enjoy your culinary journey through the flavors of Bhutan with this delicious Shamu Datshi recipe!

Nutritional Values

Nutritional values can vary based on specific brands and types of ingredients. However, here's a general estimate of the nutritional values for the listed ingredients per the given quantities:

Fresh Mushrooms (250g):

• Calories: 30
• Protein: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Fat: 0.5g

benefits:

• Rich in vitamins, particularly vitamin D and B-vitamins.
• Good source of minerals such as selenium and potassium.
• Low in calories and fat while providing a satisfying texture to the dish.

Bhutanese Red or Green Chilies (200g):

• Calories: 40
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 4g
• Fat: 1g

benefits:

• Packed with capsaicin, known for its potential metabolism-boosting properties.
• Contains vitamins A and C, contributing to immune health.
• May have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Bhutanese Cheese (200g):

• Calories: 800
• Protein: 40g
• Carbohydrates: 0g
• Fat: 70g

benefits:

• High-quality protein source essential for muscle health.
• Rich in calcium and phosphorus, promoting bone health.
• Provides healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids.

Onion (1 medium-sized):

• Calories: 45
• Protein: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Fiber: 2g
• Fat: 0g

benefits:

• Contains antioxidants that may help combat oxidative stress.
• Good source of fiber, supporting digestive health.
• Provides vitamins C and B6, contributing to overall well-being.

Garlic (3 cloves):

• Calories: 13
• Protein: 0.6g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 0.2g
• Fat: 0g

benefits:

• Known for its potential anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.
• Contains allicin, which may have cardiovascular benefits.
• May have antibacterial and antiviral properties.

Tomato (1 medium-sized):

• Calories: 22
• Protein: 1g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fiber: 1g
• Fat: 0.2g

benefits:

• High in vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports skin health.
• Rich in lycopene, which has been linked to heart health.
• Provides potassium, supporting blood pressure regulation.

Vegetable Oil (2 tablespoons):

• Calories: 240
• Fat: 28g
• No significant protein or carbohydrate content

benefits:

• Contains healthy unsaturated fats, supporting cardiovascular health.
• Acts as a source of energy for the body.
• Assists in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

Salt (to taste):

• Sodium content varies based on the amount used; there are negligible calories.

benefits:

• Essential for maintaining electrolyte balance in the body.
• Adds flavor to the dish but should be consumed in moderation.
• Supports nerve function and muscle contraction.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific brands and varieties of ingredients used. Additionally, cooking methods and additional seasonings can impact the overall nutritional content of the dish. Always refer to specific product labels for accurate nutritional information.