Authentic Nepalese Momo Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients

  • 500g All-purpose flour
  • 250ml Water
  • 300g Ground chicken
  • 1 Onion, finely chopped
  • 2 Green onions, finely chopped
  • 3 Cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 Tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 Teaspoon turmeric
  • 1 Teaspoon cumin
  • 1 Teaspoon salt
  • 1 Teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 Tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 Tablespoon sesame oil

Steps and instructions

  1. Combine the flour and water in a bowl. Knead until you get a smooth dough and let it rest for 30 minutes.
  2. In a separate bowl, mix together ground chicken, onion, green onions, garlic, ginger, turmeric, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Divide the dough into small portions, about the size of a golf ball.
  4. Roll out each portion into a thin circle.
  5. Place a spoonful of the chicken mixture in the center of each circle.
  6. Pinch the edges of the dough together to form a dumpling. Repeat this process with the rest of the dough and filling.
  7. Heat the vegetable oil in a steamer over medium heat.
  8. Place the momos in the steamer, cover, and steam for about 15 minutes, or until the dough becomes translucent.
  9. Transfer the momos to a serving plate and drizzle with sesame oil before serving.

Tools for making

  • Mixing bowl - Used to combine ingredients.
  • Rolling pin - Used to roll out the dough.
  • Knife - Used to finely chop onions and green onions.
  • Grater - Used to grate the fresh ginger.
  • Steamer - Used to steam the momos.

Recipe variations

  • Use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier or gluten-free option.
  • Replace ground chicken with ground beef, pork, or lamb for a different meat filling.
  • Try a vegetarian or vegan version by substituting the ground chicken with tofu, tempeh, or a mixture of vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, and cabbage.
  • Add different spices or herbs to the filling, such as chili flakes, paprika, coriander, or cilantro, to customize the flavor.
  • Experiment with different dipping sauces, like a spicy chili sauce, soy sauce, or a tangy yogurt-based sauce.
  • Create a fusion twist by incorporating ingredients from other cuisines, like adding curry powder or coconut milk to the filling for an Indian-inspired momo.
  • Make a dessert version by using sweet fillings like Nutella, fruit preserves, or sweetened cream cheese.
  • Change the cooking method by pan-frying the momos for a crispy crust or deep-frying them for a crunchy texture.
  • Adjust the shape of the momos by folding them into crescent shapes, pleating the edges, or making them into mini bite-sized versions.
  • Incorporate additional ingredients into the filling, such as cheese, nuts, or cooked rice, to enhance the taste and texture.

Recipe overview

Welcome to our recipe for Momos, a traditional dumpling from Nepal. This delightful dish is known for its unique flavor profile and deliciously satisfying texture. Prepare to indulge in a soft exterior stuffed with a savory filling of ground chicken, finely chopped onions, and an aromatic blend of spices. The process of making these dumplings is a labor of love, requiring patience and precision, but the end result is definitely worth it! Perfumed with a hint of sesame oil, these dumplings are as aromatic as they are flavorful. Enjoy them as a starter or a main, they're sure to impress. Let's get cooking!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of flour?
    Yes, you can try using whole wheat flour or a combination of different flours, but the texture and taste may vary.
  2. Can I substitute the ground chicken with another type of meat?
    Absolutely! You can use ground beef, pork, lamb, or even tofu as a vegetarian option.
  3. Can I make the momos ahead of time?
    Yes, you can prepare the momos in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just make sure to cover them tightly to prevent them from drying out.
  4. Can I steam the momos in a different way if I don't have a steamer?
    If you don't have a steamer, you can use a colander or a metal sieve placed over a pot of boiling water. Just make sure the momos don't touch the water.
  5. Can I freeze the momos?
    Yes, you can freeze the uncooked momos. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, ensuring they don't touch each other. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for long-term storage.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Steamer - A steamer is essential for cooking the momos by steaming them to perfection.
  • Rolling pin - A rolling pin is needed to roll out the dough into thin circles.
  • Bowl - Bowls are used for mixing ingredients and kneading the dough.
  • Knife - A knife is required for finely chopping onions and mincing garlic.
  • Grater - A grater is used to grate the fresh ginger.
  • Spoon - A spoon is needed for mixing the chicken filling and placing it onto the dough circles.

Origin stories

Momo, a type of South Asian dumpling, is believed to have originated from Tibet. It spread to neighboring regions, including Nepal, Bhutan, and the Indian states of Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh, along the route of the trans-Himalayan traders, known as the Silk Route, over the centuries. This Tibetan delicacy was adopted and modified to local taste wherever it travelled, becoming an integral part of the regional cuisines. Interestingly, the word 'momo' comes from a Chinese word meaning 'steamed bread'. Despite being a traditional food, today's momo has evolved into a modern fast-food item, popular in urban street stalls and restaurants around the world.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.