Chhaang

Chhaang or chang is a popular alcoholic beverage in the eastern Himalayas. It is consumed by people of Sikkim, Tibet , Nepal and Bhutan with great enthusiasm. It is said to be the best remedy to ward off the severe cold of the mountains. It also has many healing properties for conditions like common cold, fever, allergic rhinitis etc.

Chhaang is a relative of the more universally known -- beer. Millet or rice is used to brew the drink. Semi-fermented seeds of millet are served, stuffed in a mug of bamboo called the Domru. Then hot , boiling water is poured and sipped through a narrow bore bamboo pipe called the Pipsing. It tastes like ale. Alcohol content is quite low, but it produces an intense feeling of heat and well-being, ideal to endure temperature which go way below freezing point in winter. This traditional drink is a must in many religious & most social occasions. According to legends chhang is also popular with the Yeti, who often raid isolated mountain villages to drink it.

External links

• Recipe