Bhutanese Buckwheat Porridge
Pajen
A hearty and nutritious porridge made from roasted buckwheat flour, water, and often served with a dollop of butter or a sprinkle of cheese. It's a common breakfast or light meal in Bhutan.
Loading...

๐ง Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Roasted buckwheat flour
- 2 cups Water
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt(or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon Butter(for serving, optional)
- 2 tablespoons Bhutanese cheese (like Datshi)(crumbled, for serving, optional)
๐จโ๐ณ Instructions
- 1
In a saucepan, whisk together the roasted buckwheat flour and water until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps.
๐ก Tip: It's important to mix the flour and water thoroughly before heating to prevent clumping. - 2
Add salt to the mixture.
- 3
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly.
๐ก Tip: Continuous stirring is key to achieving a smooth, creamy consistency and preventing it from sticking to the bottom. - 4
Cook until the porridge thickens to your desired consistency.
๐ก Tip: The porridge should be thick but still pourable. - 5
Pour the porridge into serving bowls.
- 6
Top with a tablespoon of butter and/or crumbled Bhutanese cheese, if desired.
๐ก Tip: The butter and cheese add richness and a savory element.
๐ก Pro Tips
- โEnsure you use roasted buckwheat flour for the authentic nutty flavor.
- โIf the porridge becomes too thick, you can add a little more hot water to thin it out.
- โThis porridge can be a base for other toppings like honey or dried fruits, though traditional Bhutanese versions are often simpler.
โจ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a pinch of chili flakes for a hint of spice.
- Mix in a small amount of milk towards the end of cooking for a creamier texture.