Discover the fascinating world of Chang, Bhutan's beer with a sacred twist, in this captivating exploration of traditional brewing techniques and cultural significance! 🍺 Join us as we uncover how Bhutanese brewers harness the power of wild plants and fungi to create this unique craft beer. From the amylolytic ferments at its core to its incredible role in agriculture, hospitality, and even religious ceremonies, Chang is much more than a drink—it's a symbol of Bhutanese life.

We'll take you through the meticulous brewing process, from the wild plants called yangrim to the creation of fab or fau cakes, and reveal how these age-old methods differ from modern beer production. Dive into the two types of Chang—Bang Chang, the everyday beer, and Sing Chang, the noble brew for special occasions—and learn about their distinct flavors, preparation, and traditions.

Discover how Chang weaves its way into every part of Bhutanese culture, from family celebrations and community projects to spiritual offerings like Ma Chang and Circum. You'll also hear about how Bhutan's brewing heritage connects to wider Himalayan traditions and faces challenges in a modernizing world.

This episode is a toast to the ingenuity, history, and cultural richness behind one of the Himalayan Kingdom's most cherished beverages. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if you enjoyed this episode! Cheers! 🍻

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CHAPTERS:

00:00 - Intro

00:50 - Making Fab, Fau, and Fam

04:45 - Making Chang

07:29 - Chang in Bhutanese Society

10:02 - Chang in Religion

10:32 - Chang in Religious Life

13:13 - Economic and Cultural Changes

14:47 - Wider Himalayan Context

16:51 - Deep History of Chang

18:12 - Outro