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Suja (Butter Tea)

Traditional salted butter tea served hot and frothy accompanied with Zhow

Suja is the quintessential Bhutanese butter tea, a rich and savory beverage that holds deep cultural significance in Bhutan. Unlike sweet milk teas, Suja is characterized by its unique combination of strong black tea, butter, and salt, creating a comforting, frothy drink that provides warmth and energy in the cold Himalayan climate. Traditionally made with yak butter and Jarhi tea leaves, this nourishing beverage is typically served alongside Zhow (puffed rice), creating the perfect balance of creamy, savory tea with crunchy, light rice. The traditional churning process gives Suja its characteristic frothy texture, making it both a daily staple and a ceremonial drink in Bhutanese households.

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History of Suja (Butter Tea)

Suja has its origins in Tibetan tea culture and has been adapted over centuries to become an integral part of Bhutanese daily life. The name “Suja” simply means “butter tea” in Dzongkha, reflecting its straightforward composition. In the high-altitude regions of Bhutan, where temperatures can be extreme, Suja serves as both a warming beverage and a source of essential calories and energy. Traditionally made with yak butter from the high mountains and Jarhi tea leaves grown in Bhutan’s mountainous regions, this beverage represents the resourcefulness of Himalayan communities. Suja is more than just a drink—it’s a symbol of hospitality, often served to guests as a welcoming gesture and consumed throughout the day to maintain energy levels in the challenging mountain environment.

Nutritional Value of Suja (Butter Tea)

Nutrient

Range

Calories

210

Protein

4

Fat

18

Carbohydrates

6

Fiber

-

Sodium

380mg

Suja is a calorie-dense beverage, making it ideal for providing energy in cold climates. The high fat content from butter provides sustained energy release, while the black tea base offers antioxidants. The salt content helps with electrolyte balance, particularly important in high-altitude regions. While rich in calories and fat, Suja is relatively low in carbohydrates and contains no fiber. Due to its high fat and calorie content, it’s best enjoyed in moderation by those not accustomed to such rich beverages.

How to make Suja (Butter Tea)?

Ingredients

  • 2.5 cups water
  • 2 tablespoons black tea leaves (traditionally Jarhi tea)
  • ½ cup milk (room temperature)
  • 1-2 tablespoons unsalted butter (traditionally yak butter)
  • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • Optional: milk powder for richer texture

Preparation

  1. Brewing Strong Tea: Bring water to a boil in a pot. Add the tea leaves and boil for 2-3 minutes until the tea is strong and dark.
  2. Straining: Strain the tea leaves, leaving only the brewed tea liquid.
  3. Adding Milk: Pour in room-temperature milk to prevent curdling and ensure smooth blending.
  4. Incorporating Butter and Salt: Add butter and salt to the tea mixture. Traditional recipes use generous amounts of butter for richness.
  5. Churning: The key step – vigorously churn the mixture using a traditional wooden churner (Jasu) or whisk/frother until the tea becomes frothy and well-emulsified.
  6. Serving: Serve hot immediately, traditionally accompanied by Zhow (puffed rice) which can be eaten separately or soaked in the tea.

Traditional Note: In authentic Bhutanese preparation, the tea is churned by two people – one holding the churner steady while the other churns vigorously to create the characteristic frothy texture.

Bhutan Kitchen

Company

Bhutan

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