Embark on a culinary journey to the enchanting Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan, where traditional flavors and unique ingredients come together to create a dish that epitomizes the Bhutanese culinary identity – Ema Datshi. This beloved Bhutanese delicacy is a tantalizing blend of fiery red and green chili peppers with the rich creaminess of cheese, resulting in a dish that not only ignites the taste buds but also reflects the cultural richness of the Dragon Kingdom. Join us as we unravel the secrets of preparing this iconic Bhutanese dish, bringing a touch of Bhutan's vibrant gastronomic heritage to your kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 4-5 large green chili peppers
• 4-5 large red chili peppers
• 200g of Bhutanese or Swiss cheese (such as Gouda or Emmental), grated
• 2 medium-sized tomatoes, diced
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• Salt to taste
• Fresh coriander leaves for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Chili Peppers:

1-Wash the green and red chili peppers thoroughly.

2-Slit the peppers lengthwise, removing the seeds for a milder flavor, or keep them for extra heat.

3-Chop the chili peppers into small pieces.

Sautéing the Aromatics:

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

2-Add minced garlic and sliced onions. Sauté until the onions become translucent.

Adding Chili Peppers:Add the chopped green and red chili peppers to the pan. Stir well.

Incorporate Tomatoes:Toss in the diced tomatoes and continue to cook until they soften and release their juices.

Seasoning:Sprinkle turmeric powder over the mixture, and add salt to taste. Stir to combine.

Introducing Cheese:Gradually add the grated cheese to the pan, stirring continuously to ensure it melts evenly.

Simmering:Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer until the cheese has completely melted and the flavors are well-incorporated.

Adjust Consistency:If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a bit of water or milk to achieve your desired consistency.

Garnish and Serve:

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

2-Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.

Serve Hot:Ema Datshi is traditionally served hot and is best enjoyed with Bhutanese red rice or flatbreads.

Indulge in the bold and spicy flavors of Bhutanese Ema Datshi, a dish that showcases the unique fusion of chilies and cheese in the heart of the Himalayas.

Nutritional Values

While it's challenging to provide precise nutritional values without specific brands or exact quantities, here's a general overview based on common nutritional information for these ingredients:

Green Chili Peppers (4-5 large):

• Low in calories
• Good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and antioxidants
• May have metabolism-boosting properties

Benefit: Rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and antioxidants, green chili peppers may boost metabolism and contribute to a healthy immune system.

Red Chili Peppers (4-5 large):

• Low in calories
• Rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and capsaicin (which may have health benefits)

Benefit: Packed with vitamin C, vitamin A, and capsaicin, red chili peppers may support immune function and have potential health benefits, including metabolism stimulation.

Bhutanese or Swiss Cheese (200g, Gouda or Emmental):

• High in calories and fat
• Good source of protein and calcium
• Contains vitamins A and B12

Benefit: A good source of protein and calcium, cheese provides essential nutrients for bone health and muscle function. Vitamins A and B12 in cheese also contribute to overall well-being.

Tomatoes (2 medium-sized):

• Low in calories
• Excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants
• Contains lycopene, which may have health benefits

Benefit: Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants. The lycopene in tomatoes may have cardiovascular and cancer-fighting benefits.

Onion (1 large):

• Low in calories
• Good source of fiber, vitamin C, and various antioxidants

Benefit: Low in calories and high in fiber, onions contribute to digestive health. They also provide vitamin C and antioxidants, supporting overall immune function.

Garlic (3 cloves):

• Low in calories
• Contains allicin, which has potential health benefits

Benefit: Garlic is known for containing allicin, which has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It may contribute to heart health and immune support.

Vegetable Oil (2 tablespoons):

• High in calories and fat
• Source of vitamin E
• Contains unsaturated fats

Benefit: While high in calories, vegetable oil provides essential fatty acids and vitamin E. It supports cell function and helps absorb fat-soluble vitamins.

Turmeric Powder (1 teaspoon):

• Low in calories
• Contains curcumin, known for its anti-inflammatory properties

Benefit: Turmeric contains curcumin, known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It may have various health benefits, including potential anti-cancer effects.

Salt (to taste):

• Sodium content depends on the amount used

Benefit: Sodium in salt is essential for maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions. However, moderation is key to avoid excessive sodium intake.

Fresh Coriander Leaves (for garnish):

• Low in calories
• Contains vitamins A and K, and antioxidants

Benefit: Low in calories and rich in vitamins A and K, coriander leaves provide antioxidants and may support eye health, skin health, and blood clotting.

It's important to note that the nutritional values can vary based on factors like the specific type and brand of ingredients, as well as the cooking methods employed. If you have specific dietary concerns or are following a strict nutritional plan, it's advisable to consult with a nutritionist for more accurate information tailored to your needs.