Beer in Tibet facts for kids
Making beer in Tibet is a fairly new thing for Tibetan cuisine. A company called Lhasa Brewery was started in 1988. It is located in the city of Lhasa. This brewery is special because it is the highest one in the entire world!
History of Beer in Tibet
The first time beer was mentioned in Tibet's history was in Chinese records. This was around the year 638. It was part of a peace agreement between Tang China and the new Tibetan kingdom. This agreement was made with a leader named Songtsen Gampo.
Early Agreements and Technology
The peace agreement included sharing new technologies. These technologies were things like how to make silk, paper, and even how to use watermills. It also included how to make beer! The first emperor, Tang Taizong, did not follow this part of the agreement. However, his son, Tang Gaozong, did. This means that beer-making knowledge eventually came to Tibet.
Traditional Tibetan Drinks
Even though some people might think alcohol goes against the beliefs of Tibetan Buddhism, Tibetans have enjoyed a local drink for centuries. This drink is called chhaang. It is a traditional brew made from barley. You can often find it sold by the glass at street stalls in Lhasa and other towns across Tibet. Many Tibetans, including monks, have traditionally consumed chhaang as part of their culture.
