Chhurpi

Chhurpi, also known as durkha, is a cherished traditional cheese from the Himalayan regions, encompassing Nepal, Sikkim, Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Bhutan, and Tibet. There are two primary varieties of chhurpi: soft and hard. This cheese has its origins in Tibetan culture before it eventually found its way to Nepal and India.

The process of making chhurpi begins with boiling buttermilk. The solids are separated from the liquid, and the water is drained by wrapping the solid mass in a thin cloth and hanging it. The soft version of chhurpi is white, soft, and has a neutral taste, similar to Italian ricotta. It can also be left to ferment slightly to develop a tangy flavor. To create the hard version, the soft chhurpi is pressed in a jute bag, dried, cut into small pieces, and hardened over a fire.

Soft chhurpi is quite versatile in cooking. It is used in vegetable dishes, as a filling for momos (dumplings), ground with tomatoes and chilies to make chutney, and even added to soups. In the mountainous regions, it is valued as a high-protein alternative to vegetables.

The hard chhurpi, however, is enjoyed by keeping a piece in the mouth until it softens enough to chew, a process that can take up to two hours. It has also become a popular dog treat due to its high protein content and tangy flavor. This has led to a global market for chhurpi dog chews, with brands like Himalayan Dog Chew, Yeti Dog Chew, and Everest Dog Chew offering various forms of this traditional cheese treat for pets.