Yak Stew with Buckwheat Dumplings (Sha Kam Shakam)
A hearty and warming stew made with dried yak meat, vegetables, and spices, served with traditional buckwheat dumplings. This dish is a staple in the colder regions of Bhutan, providing sustenance and warmth.
🧂 Ingredients
- 300 g Dried Yak Meat(rehydrated and cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 medium Onions(chopped)
- 5 cloves Garlic(minced)
- 1 inch Ginger(grated)
- 400 g Tomatoes(chopped)
- 200 g Radish(cubed)
- 200 g Spinach(chopped)
- 2-3 large Chili Peppers(slit lengthwise (adjust to taste))
- 1 tsp Turmeric Powder
- 1 tsp Coriander Powder
- 1 tsp Cumin Powder
- 1 liter Vegetable Broth
- to taste Salt
- 150 g Buckwheat Flour(for dumplings)
- approx. 75 ml Water(for dumplings)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
If using dried yak meat, rehydrate it by soaking in warm water for at least 2 hours, then drain and cut into bite-sized pieces.
- 2
In a large pot, heat a little oil and sauté onions until softened. Add minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Add the yak meat to the pot and brown it slightly. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, radish, turmeric, coriander, and cumin powders. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 4
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for at least 1.5 hours, or until the yak meat is tender.
- 5
While the stew simmers, prepare the buckwheat dumplings. In a bowl, combine buckwheat flour with water to form a stiff dough. Roll small portions of the dough into rough, bite-sized dumplings.
- 6
About 20 minutes before the stew is done, add the dumplings and slit chili peppers to the pot. Stir in the chopped spinach and season with salt to taste.
- 7
Simmer for another 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and the stew has thickened. Serve hot.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the dried yak meat is thoroughly rehydrated for tenderness.
- ✓Adjust the number of chili peppers based on your spice preference.
- ✓The buckwheat dough should be firm; add water gradually to avoid making it sticky.
🔄 Variations
- Other root vegetables like potatoes or carrots can be added.
- For a richer flavor, a small amount of butter can be added at the end.