Bhutanese Yak and Mushroom Stew
A hearty and warming stew featuring tender yak meat simmered with earthy mushrooms and aromatic Bhutanese spices. This dish is a comforting staple, often prepared during colder months, and is typically served with red rice.

๐ง Ingredients
- 500 g Yak meat, cubed
- 300 g Mixed mushrooms (shiitake, oyster, button), sliced
- 1 medium Onion, chopped
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece Ginger, grated
- 2 Green chilies, slit (adjust to taste)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil
- 4 cups Water or yak broth
- 1 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1 tsp Coriander powder
- 0.5 tsp Cumin powder
- to taste Salt
- 2 tbsp Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
๐จโ๐ณ Instructions
- 1
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sautรฉ until softened, about 5 minutes.
๐ก Tip: Using a heavy-bottomed pot will help distribute heat evenly. - 2
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and sautรฉ for another minute until fragrant.
๐ก Tip: Be careful not to burn the garlic. - 3
Add the cubed yak meat to the pot and brown it on all sides. This will take about 8-10 minutes.
๐ก Tip: Browning the meat adds depth of flavor to the stew. - 4
Stir in the turmeric powder, coriander powder, and cumin powder. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant.
๐ก Tip: Toasting the spices enhances their aroma and flavor. - 5
Add the sliced mushrooms, slit green chilies, and water or yak broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
๐ก Tip: If using yak broth, it will add an extra layer of authentic flavor. - 6
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for at least 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the yak meat is tender.
๐ก Tip: Simmering slowly allows the tough yak meat to become tender and flavorful. - 7
Season the stew with salt to taste. If the stew is too thin, you can remove the lid and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to reduce the liquid.
๐ก Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving. - 8
Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro and serve hot with Bhutanese red rice.
๐ก Tip: Red rice is a traditional accompaniment that complements the richness of the stew.
๐ก Pro Tips
- โIf yak meat is unavailable, beef or lamb can be used as a substitute, though the flavor profile will differ.
- โFor a spicier stew, add more green chilies or a pinch of chili flakes.
- โThis stew can be made ahead of time; the flavors often meld and improve overnight.
โจ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add diced potatoes or carrots along with the mushrooms for a more substantial stew.
- A small amount of fermented soybean paste (like doenjang) can add a unique umami depth.