Kewa Datshi (Bhutanese Potatoes in Cheese Sauce)
In short: Thin potato slices simmered with onion and a little chili, then finished with soft melting cheese. A mild, creamy Bhutanese favorite. It takes about 35 min in total and makes 4 servings.
- Prep
- 15 min
- Cook
- 20 min
- Total
- 35 min
- Servings
- 4
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Calories
- 260 kcal
Kewa datshi is the gentler cousin of ema datshi, and it is just as common on Bhutanese tables. Thin slices of potato cook in a little water with onion and garlic until tender, then soft cheese melts into a creamy sauce that clings to them. Because it has far less chili, it is often served beside fiery dishes to balance them, and it is popular with children.
Instructions
- Heat the oil in a wide pan over medium heat and cook the onion and garlic for 3 minutes.
- Add the potatoes, chilies, salt and water. Bring to a boil, cover and simmer for 10 to 12 minutes until the potatoes are nearly tender.
- Scatter the datshi over the potatoes, cover and cook for 5 minutes until melted into a creamy sauce.
- Stir very gently so the slices do not break. Cook uncovered for 2 minutes if the sauce is too thin.
- Serve hot with red rice.
Tips
- Slice the potatoes evenly so they cook at the same speed. A mandoline helps, but a sharp knife is enough.
- For extra heat, add a pinch of dried chili flakes with the garlic, or serve with a spoonful of chili relish on the side.
Questions and answers
Is kewa datshi spicy?
Only mildly, since chilies are optional here. It is usually eaten beside very hot dishes to balance them.
What cheese can I use instead of datshi?
A mix of feta and mild white cheddar is a good substitute. Fresh farmer's cheese or a crumbly cottage cheese also works.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes. Sliced mushrooms, green beans or spinach are often added, sometimes in place of part of the potato.
How long does it take to make Kewa Datshi (Bhutanese Potatoes in Cheese Sauce)?
About 35 min in total: 15 min of preparation and 20 min of cooking.
How many calories are in Kewa Datshi (Bhutanese Potatoes in Cheese Sauce)?
About 260 kcal per serving, with 10 g of protein, 24 g of carbohydrates and 14 g of fat. These values are estimates.
Nutrition per serving
| Calories | 260 kcal |
|---|---|
| Protein | 10 g |
| Carbohydrates | 24 g |
| Fat | 14 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 700 mg |
Estimated values, calculated from the ingredients.
