Bhutanese Cheese Curry Ema Daji Recipe

Experience the rich, warming flavors of Bhutanese Ema Daji, a unique cheese curry! This recipe offers a milder take on the traditionally spicy Bhutanese version, using jalapeños and fewer chilies for customizable heat. Feta cheese stands in for the harder-to-find churpi cheese, creating a creamy, comforting soup-like curry perfect for a cool evening. Adapted from "Mangoes and Curry Leaves" by Alford and Duguid, this recipe is a culinary adventure you won't want to miss! Serve with Bhutanese red rice or your favorite rice alongside a stir-fried green vegetable for a complete meal.

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 55 mins
Calories 149.7 kcal
Protein 13g
Rating 5.0 (1 Reviews)
Bhutanese Cheese Curry Ema Daji

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Passionate home cook & Forktionary contributor.

Ingredients for Bhutanese Cheese Curry Ema Daji

  • Chilies
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • Vegetable Oil
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • Garlic Cloves
  • Feta Cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh coriander leaves

How to Make Bhutanese Cheese Curry Ema Daji

  1. Heat the oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the chopped jalapeños (or chilies of your choice), and sauté for another 2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Pour in 2 cups of water and bring to a boil.
  4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
  5. Add the canned diced tomatoes (undrained) and minced garlic. Bring to a boil again, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, or until the tomatoes have softened and the sauce has slightly thickened.
  6. Gently stir in the crumbled feta cheese and simmer for another 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and incorporated into the sauce.
  7. Remove from heat, cover, and let the curry rest for 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld.
  8. Stir in the chopped coriander leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  9. Serve warm (not hot) with Bhutanese red rice or plain rice, and a side of stir-fried green vegetables.

Chef's Tip for Extra Flavor

Chef's secret: layers of flavor make a dish truly memorable! Consider what a little extra something could bring – perhaps a touch of acidity like a good vinegar or citrus zest, a hint of smokiness from paprika, a bit of umami from mushrooms or soy sauce, or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for texture. Experiment and taste as you go!

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

14 g

Sugar

30g

Fat

24g

Carbs

4g