Tshejor’s Ayzey Zhimtsi Ezay (200g)

Zhimtsi Ezay — Bhutanese Chilli Paste with Perilla Seeds

Zhimtsi is the Dzongkha word for perilla (Perilla frutescens), a leafy herb in the mint family whose small, oily seeds have been part of Himalayan cooking for centuries. In Zhimtsi Ezay, those toasted seeds join red chillies, Sichuan pepper (thingney), onions, garlic, ginger, coriander, and spring onions in a paste that is unmistakably Bhutanese — and unmistakably sophisticated.

The paste is dark brick-red with visible flecks of perilla seed and aromatic spices. The flavour is layered and almost perfumed: the warming heat of red chillies at the front, the citrusy, tongue-tingling buzz of Sichuan pepper in the middle, and the nutty, slightly grassy depth of toasted perilla at the finish. It is more aromatic than Chagop Ezay and slightly less aggressively spicy — a paste that rewards slow eating.

How to enjoy Zhimtsi Ezay in Bangkok:

• The Traditional Bhutanese Way: Stir a teaspoon into a bowl of steamed Bhutanese Red Rice and serve alongside ema datshi or any stir-fried green. The perilla adds an umami richness that no plain chilli paste can match.
• With Grilled Fish: Brush a thin layer onto salmon or white fish before grilling. The perilla and Sichuan pepper pair beautifully with oily fish.
• The Noodle Way: Stir a teaspoon into a bowl of hot noodle soup just before serving. It dissolves into the broth and gives it an instant Sichuan-Bhutanese character.
• As a Marinade: Mix with soy sauce, a splash of rice vinegar, and a little honey for an aromatic marinade for chicken, pork, or tofu.
• With Momos: Use it as a dipping sauce for steamed momos, ideally alongside a little black vinegar and shredded ginger.

Made by Tshejor’s Ayzey (Since 2000), the women-led enterprise in Thimphu recognised with the Woman Entrepreneur Award 2013, the Best Loden Entrepreneur Award 2015, the National Trademark Award 2018, and the International Business Excellence Award 2021. Every jar supports local women and students’ school fees through the Loden Foundation.

Net Weight: 200g