Everyday Drink · Butter Tea
Suja (Butter Tea)
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Bhutanese households drink this tea by the bowlful all day long — but it's churned with yak butter and salt, never sugar.
Strong black tea is churned together with yak butter and salt until it turns frothy and pale, then served hot in small bowls, often alongside puffed rice. Poured throughout the day and offered to guests as a standard gesture of hospitality.
Why it's made this way: In Bhutan's cold, high-altitude climate, the fat and salt in suja deliver quick energy and warmth, making it a practical daily staple as much as a ceremonial drink.
Roughly what's in it
150kcal
2gprotein
8gcarbs
13gfat
Estimated per typical street-vendor portion — not lab-tested.
More from Bhutan
Part of World of Street Food — 690 dishes from 118 countries.
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