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Shamu Zhimsey

Crispy fried mushroom with local pepper and chili flakes

Shamu Zhimsey is an exceptional chef’s special that elevates mushrooms to new heights of deliciousness. “Shamu” means mushroom in Dzongkha, and “Zhimsey” translates to “delicious,” perfectly capturing the irresistible nature of this creation. The dish features fresh mushrooms that are deep-fried to crispy perfection, achieving a golden-brown exterior while maintaining their tender, juicy interior. The crispy mushrooms are then tossed with aromatic local pepper and spicy chili flakes, creating a Bhutanese interpretation of Manchurian-style flavors that’s both familiar and uniquely Bhutanese. This dish showcases how traditional ingredients can be transformed through innovative cooking techniques, resulting in a vegetarian delight that even meat-lovers will adore.

Shamu Zhimsey - Crispy Fried Bhutanese Mushrooms - Bhutan Kitchen

Price - ฿250

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History of Shamu Zhimsey

Shamu Zhimsey represents the creative evolution of mushroom dishes in Bhutanese cuisine. While mushrooms have been part of Bhutanese cooking for centuries, traditionally appearing in dishes like Shamu Datshi (mushrooms with cheese), this chef’s special takes the ingredient in an exciting new direction. Bhutan is home to over 300 varieties of native mushrooms, and foraging for wild mushrooms has been a traditional practice for generations. The deep-frying technique adds a modern twist while the traditional seasonings of local pepper and chili flakes maintain authentic Bhutanese flavors. The Manchurian-style preparation reflects the growing influence of international cuisines on Bhutanese cooking, while the name “Zhimsey” emphasizes the chef’s commitment to creating truly delicious and memorable dishes. This innovative approach showcases how Bhutanese chefs are reimagining traditional ingredients for contemporary palates.

Nutritional Value of Shamu Zhimsey

Nutrient

Range

Calories

180

Protein

5g

Fat

12g

Carbohydrates

12g

Fiber

3g

Sodium

350mg

Health Benefits:
Despite being a fried dish, Shamu Zhimsey offers several nutritional benefits:

  • Rich in Antioxidants: Mushrooms contain powerful antioxidants like selenium and ergothioneine that help protect cells from damage
  • Immune Support: Mushrooms are known for their immune-boosting properties and contain beta-glucans that support immune function
  • Low in Calories: Mushrooms are naturally low in calories, making them a good choice for weight management
  • Vitamin D Source: Some mushrooms can provide vitamin D when exposed to UV light
  • Heart Health: The fiber and antioxidants in mushrooms support cardiovascular health
  • Blood Sugar Control: The fiber content helps regulate blood sugar levels

As with any fried food, this dish is best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

How to make Shamu Zhimsey?

Ingredients

  • 300g fresh mushrooms (button, oyster, or mixed varieties), cleaned and sliced
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch or rice flour
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying
  • 1 teaspoon local Bhutanese pepper (or Sichuan pepper), freshly ground
  • 1-2 teaspoons chili flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • Fresh cilantro or spring onions for garnish

Preparation

  1. Prepare Mushrooms: Clean the mushrooms thoroughly and slice them into bite-sized pieces. If using larger mushrooms like oyster mushrooms, tear them into smaller pieces for better frying.
  2. Coat Mushrooms: In a large bowl, toss the mushroom pieces with cornstarch or rice flour until lightly coated on all sides. This will help create a crispy exterior when fried.
  3. Heat Oil: Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan or wok to 180°C (350°F). The oil should be deep enough to submerge the mushroom pieces.
  4. Fry Mushrooms: Carefully add the coated mushrooms to the hot oil in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  5. Season: While the mushrooms are still hot, transfer them to a large bowl. Sprinkle with freshly ground local pepper, chili flakes, salt, and garlic powder. Toss well to coat evenly.
  6. Add Sauce: In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar. Drizzle this mixture over the seasoned mushrooms and toss gently to combine.
  7. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped spring onions and serve immediately while hot and crispy. The dish should have a perfect balance of crispy mushrooms, aromatic pepper, and spicy-savory flavors reminiscent of Manchurian cuisine.

Bhutan Kitchen

Company

Bhutan

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