Authentic Nepalese Sisnoo: A Traditional Himalayan Delight

Ingredients

2 cups of finely chopped onion
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 cup of chopped celery
1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
2 cups of canned green peas
2 cups of diced pumpkin
2 potatoes, diced
2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
1 teaspoon of ghee (clarified butter)
Salt to taste
2 teaspoons of red chili powder
1 tablespoon of chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
4 cups of water

Steps and instructions

Heat the vegetable oil and ghee in a large pan over medium heat.
Once the oil is hot, add the cumin seeds and wait until they start to crackle.
Add the chopped onions, garlic, and celery to the pan and sauté until onions become translucent.
Add the turmeric and red chili powder, mix well to coat the onion mixture.
Add the diced pumpkin and potatoes to the pan, stir to combine with the spices.
Add the canned green peas and salt, mix well.
Add water to the pan, cover, and let the mixture come to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are cooked and tender.
Turn off the heat and let the sisnoo rest for a few minutes before serving.
Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.

Tools for making

Large pan - A pan large enough to accommodate all the ingredients and cook them properly.
Spatula - Used for stirring and flipping the vegetables while cooking.
Knife - To chop the onions, garlic, celery, pumpkin, and potatoes.
Cutting board - To provide a stable surface for chopping and preparing the vegetables.
Measuring cups - To accurately measure the required amounts of onion, green peas, and water.
Measuring spoons - To measure the precise amounts of cumin seeds, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt.
Lid - To cover the pan while simmering the sisnoo.
Cooking spoon - To mix and stir the ingredients while cooking.
Garnishing spoon - To sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top of the sisnoo before serving.

Recipe variations

Replace the pumpkin with butternut squash or sweet potatoes for a different flavor.
Add diced carrots or bell peppers for added color and texture.
For a spicier version, increase the amount of red chili powder or add chopped green chilies.
If you prefer a meaty version, you can add cooked chicken or lamb to the sisnoo.
To make it vegan, substitute ghee with vegetable oil and omit the use of butter or any dairy products.
For a gluten-free option, ensure that all the spices and canned green peas are gluten-free certified.
Experiment with different herbs and spices such as coriander powder, garam masala, or curry leaves to enhance the flavor.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dollop of yogurt on top for a tangy twist.
Serve the sisnoo over steamed rice or with warm naan bread for a complete meal.

Recipe overview

This is a traditional and hearty Sisnoo recipe, a common dish enjoyed in various regions around the world. It's a flavorful and comforting stew made with a medley of vegetables like pumpkin, potatoes, and green peas. The vegetables are cooked with a blend of spices including turmeric, red chili powder, and cumin seeds, resulting in a dish that's both flavorful and aromatic. With its rich and warm flavors, Sisnoo is the perfect meal for a cozy night in. This recipe is quite simple to follow, and the end result is a delicious and nourishing meal that's sure to satisfy.

Common questions

Can I use fresh peas instead of canned peas? Yes, you can use fresh peas instead of canned peas. Simply blanch the fresh peas before adding them to the recipe.
Can I substitute pumpkin with another vegetable? Yes, you can substitute pumpkin with butternut squash or sweet potatoes if desired.
Is it necessary to use ghee? No, using ghee adds a traditional flavor to the dish, but you can omit it or substitute with butter or oil if preferred.
Can I add other vegetables to the sisnoo? Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or spinach to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the dish.
Is this recipe spicy? The level of spiciness can be adjusted according to personal preference. You can reduce or increase the amount of red chili powder to make it milder or spicier.
Can I make sisnoo in advance? Yes, you can make sisnoo in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Can I freeze sisnoo? Yes, sisnoo can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

Large pan - A large pan is needed to cook the sisnoo and accommodate all the ingredients.
Knife - A knife is essential for chopping the onions, garlic, celery, pumpkin, and potatoes.
Cutting board - A cutting board provides a stable surface for chopping the vegetables.
Wooden spoon or spatula - A wooden spoon or spatula is useful for stirring and mixing the ingredients while cooking.
Measuring cups - Measuring cups are necessary for accurately measuring the ingredients like onion, peas, pumpkin, and potatoes.
Measuring spoons - Measuring spoons are needed to measure precise amounts of spices like cumin seeds, turmeric powder, and red chili powder.
Pan lid - A pan lid is used to cover the pan while simmering the sisnoo.
Serving bowl - A serving bowl is needed to present the cooked sisnoo.
Garnishing tool - A garnishing tool such as a pair of kitchen scissors or herb stripper can be used to chop fresh cilantro for garnishing.

Origin stories

A cherished comfort dish from the mountainous regions of Nepal, Sisnoo is a testament to the ingenious use of local ingredients by the Nepalese people. The dish is traditionally prepared with nettles, locally known as "sisnoo," which are prolific in the Himalayan foothills. The stinging plant is expertly handled and cooked into a hearty, wholesome stew that warms the body and soul, especially during harsh winters. However, in the absence of nettles, often other green vegetables are used, retaining the essence of the dish. The humble sisnoo, once a survival food, has now found its place in the hearts and kitchens of the Nepalese, a symbol of resilience and adaptation.

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.