Bhutanese Organic Soya Bean Ezay (200g)

Soya Bean Ezay with Keeneyma (fermented black soybeans)

For generations, the families living in the foothills of southern and eastern Bhutan have preserved a secret that adds profound depth to their meals. They ferment black soybeans using a natural process, transforming them into Keeneyma. This traditional ingredient is the soul of our Soya Bean Ezay.

Keeneyma is the Bhutanese cousin to Japan’s natto, Korea’s chungkok-jang, and Thailand’s thua-nao. The cooked soybeans are allowed to ferment, developing a sticky texture and a powerful, savory umami flavor. We blend this prized fermented soybean with fire-roasted organic chilies, garlic, and Himalayan spices to create a chili paste that is both intensely flavorful and wonderfully complex. The heat of the chilies is balanced by the deep, savory, almost meaty notes of the Keeneyma, resulting in a condiment that is far more than just spicy. It is a protein-rich, probiotic-packed taste of rural Bhutan.

How to enjoy this unique paste in Bangkok:

• The Traditional Bhutanese Way: Serve a small spoonful alongside a bowl of steamed Bhutanese Red Rice. The nutty, earthy rice is the perfect canvas for the paste’s powerful flavor. It is also a classic accompaniment to Ema Datshi, the national dish of chilies and cheese.
• The Bangkok Twist: Use a spoonful to add an incredible umami depth to a simple vegetable stir-fry. Sauté your greens, then stir in the ezay at the end. It is also a phenomenal secret ingredient for Tom Yum soup, adding a fermented complexity that elevates the broth.
• The Modern Way: Mix a little into mayonnaise or yogurt for a spicy, umami-rich dip. Spread it on a sandwich or burger. Use it as a glaze for grilled tofu or chicken. Its bold, savory character also makes it an excellent flavor base for noodle soups or hearty stews.

Made by Tshejor’s Ayzey, a women-led enterprise in Thimphu, this ezay contains no preservatives. It is preserved naturally through fermentation, salt, and the inherent antimicrobial properties of chilies and Sichuan pepper.

Net Weight: 200g