Types of Momo in Nepal: A Delicious Journey of Nepal’s Favorite Dumplings

Types of Momo in Nepal: A Delicious Journey of Nepal’s Favorite Dumplings

Momo, a traditional Nepali dish, is more than just a dumpling. It’s a cultural phenomenon, a flavor-packed snack that has become an essential part of Nepal’s street food scene. Whether steamed, fried, or served with soup, momo is loved by people of all ages. If you're curious about the different types of momo in Nepal, you've come to the right place! In this blog, we’ll explore the most popular and unique varieties of momo that you must try, along with how to make them at home.

What Are Momos?

momo in nepal

Momos are dough-wrapped dumplings filled with a variety of ingredients like meat, vegetables, or even cheese. They are either steamed, fried, or served in a soup, and they’re typically accompanied by a spicy dipping sauce known as achar. From street vendors to high-end restaurants, momos are everywhere in Nepal, and each type offers a different twist on this classic dish.

1. Jhol Momo

jhol momo

Jhol Momo is a comforting and spicy variation of the traditional momo, typically served with a hot, aromatic soup. Unlike other types that are dry, Jhol Momo comes in a flavorful broth made from tomatoes, garlic, ginger, and spices. This soupy momo is perfect for colder days, as it combines the warmth of the soup with the soft, steamed dumplings. It's a perfect blend of textures and flavors, making each bite a delicious experience.

Fillings:

Jhol Momo can be made with chicken, buffalo, or vegetable fillings.

Serving:

It’s served in a spicy, tangy broth with a sprinkling of fresh cilantro and a side of achar (spicy dipping sauce) to elevate the flavors.

Ingredients:

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the filling and steam the momos.
  2. Blend tomatoes, onion, garlic, ginger, and green chilies into a smooth paste.
  3. Heat mustard oil in a pan, and cook the blended paste for 5-7 minutes.
  4. Add soy sauce, vinegar, tamarind paste, and water. Let it simmer to form a broth.
  5. Add steamed momos to the broth and let them soak for a few minutes.
  6. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.

2. Fried Momo

fried momo

Fried momo is the crispy, crunchy cousin of steamed momos. These dumplings are first steamed, then deep-fried until golden and crispy on the outside, which adds a delightful crunch to the soft, juicy filling inside. Fried momo is often the go-to choice for those who love crispy snacks with a satisfying crunch.

Fillings:

Chicken, buffalo, or vegetables are the most common fillings for fried momos. The fillings are typically spiced and can have an additional layer of flavor with the frying.

Serving:

Fried momos are typically served with a tangy dipping sauce or achar, which adds a zesty contrast to their crispy texture.

Ingredients:

Instructions:

  1. Steam the momos as usual with your choice of filling.
  2. Heat oil in a pan and deep-fry the steamed momos until golden and crispy.
  3. Remove the momos from the oil and drain excess oil using paper towels.
  4. Optionally, toss fried momos in soy sauce for added flavor.
  5. Serve with achar (Nepali chutney) or your favorite dipping sauce.

3. Vegetable Momo

vegetable momo

For those seeking a healthier or vegetarian option, Vegetable Momo is a perfect choice. These momos are filled with a mixture of finely chopped vegetables, making them light yet packed with flavor. The combination of vegetables like cabbage, carrots, spinach, and mushrooms makes these momos a delicious alternative to meat-filled ones.

Fillings:

Chopped vegetables such as cabbage, carrots, onions, and spinach, along with some spices for flavor.

Serving:

These momos are often served with a spicy dipping sauce or achar, which adds a touch of heat and depth of flavor.

Ingredients:

Instructions:

  1. Prepare momo dough by mixing flour, salt, and water to form a smooth dough.
  2. Sauté onions, ginger-garlic paste, and vegetables in oil.
  3. Add soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender.
  4. Roll out small pieces of dough, place the veggie mixture inside, and fold into dumplings.
  5. Steam the momos for 10-12 minutes and serve with achar.

4. Chilli Momo

momo in nepal

Chilli Momo is a spicy, tangy version of fried momo. After the fried dumplings are crisped to perfection, they are tossed in a spicy, tangy chili sauce made with ingredients like onions, green chillies, bell peppers, and soy sauce. The result is a flavorful and fiery dish that packs a punch, perfect for spice lovers.

Fillings:

Chicken, buffalo, or vegetables are commonly used in Chilli Momo.

Serving:

Chilli Momo is served with fried garlic and extra achar, which adds a savory depth to the intense spice.

Ingredients:

Instructions:

  1. Fry the momos as described in the Fried Momo recipe.
  2. In a pan, sauté onions, green chilies, and bell peppers until soft.
  3. Add soy sauce, ketchup, and salt to the pan. Stir well and cook for a minute.
  4. Toss the fried momos into the pan and coat them with the spicy chili sauce.
  5. Garnish with fresh coriander, and serve with extra dipping sauce.

5. Tandoori Momo

tandoori-momo

A fusion of Nepali and Indian flavors, Tandoori Momo brings a smoky and aromatic twist to the traditional momo. The dumplings are marinated in tandoori spices and then grilled to perfection. This gives the momos a smoky, charred flavor that enhances the savory filling inside.

Fillings:

Typically chicken or buffalo, although vegetarian versions can also be made with paneer.

Serving:

Tandoori momos are usually served with a cooling side of yogurt or mint chutney, which helps balance the spiciness of the tandoori marinade.

Ingredients:

Instructions:

  1. Prepare steamed momos with your choice of filling.
  2. Mix yogurt, tandoori masala, garlic paste, ginger paste, lemon juice, and salt.
  3. Coat the steamed momos with this marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes.
  4. Preheat the grill or oven to medium-high heat.
  5. Grill the momos for 10-15 minutes until slightly charred and smoky.
  6. Serve with yogurt or mint chutney for added flavor.

6. Kothey Momo

kothey momo

Kothey Momo is a variation of fried momo that combines the best of both worlds. These momos are first steamed and then shallow-fried to create a crispy bottom while keeping the top soft and tender. This results in a unique combination of textures, making each bite a flavorful experience.

Fillings:

The fillings can be chicken, buffalo, or vegetables.

Serving:

Kothey Momo is typically served with achar and sometimes a drizzle of spicy sauce for added flavor.

Ingredients:

Instructions:

  1. Prepare steamed momos with your choice of filling.
  2. Heat oil in a pan and shallow fry the steamed momos.
  3. Fry until the bottom turns golden and crispy while the top remains soft.
  4. Serve with achar or dipping sauce.

7. Paneer Momo

paneer momo in nepal

For those who love cheese, Paneer Momo is an indulgent treat. These momos are filled with paneer (Indian cottage cheese) mixed with a variety of spices, giving them a rich, creamy flavor. Paneer momo is a great choice for those who enjoy the texture of cheese combined with a savory twist.

Fillings:

Crumble paneer mixed with onions, spices, and sometimes vegetables.

Serving:

Paneer momos are served with achar or a tangy dipping sauce, which complements the creamy filling.

Ingredients:

Instructions:

  1. Prepare momo dough.
  2. Sauté onions and ginger-garlic paste, then add crumbled paneer, cumin powder, garam masala, and salt.
  3. Roll out dough into small circles, place the paneer mixture inside, and fold the dumplings.
  4. Steam for 10-12 minutes and serve with a tangy dipping sauce.

8. Veg Momo

veg momo in nepal

Veg Momo is a simplified yet flavorful vegetarian version of the vegetable momo. These momos are stuffed with a mix of basic vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and onions, making them light and easy to digest. They're perfect for a quick and healthy snack.

Fillings:

A basic mixture of cabbage, carrots, and onions.

Serving:

Veg momos are served with achar, providing a mild spicy contrast to the delicate filling.

Ingredients:

Instructions:

  1. Prepare dough for momo.
  2. Sauté ginger-garlic paste and add vegetables.
  3. Add soy sauce and salt, cook until tender.
  4. Roll the dough, fill it with the veggie mixture, and seal the edges.
  5. Steam the momos for 10-12 minutes and serve with achar.

9. Cheese Momo

cheese momo in nepal

If you're a fan of gooey cheese, Cheese Momo will be your favorite. These momos are filled with a delicious cheese mixture, which melts inside as the dumplings steam. The cheese oozes out as you bite into it, creating a satisfying and creamy sensation.

Fillings:

Cheese, often combined with a little bit of vegetables or meat for extra flavor.

Serving:

Cheese momos are typically served with a tangy dipping sauce to balance the richness of the cheese.

Ingredients:

Instructions:

  1. Mix cheese, green chilies, and black pepper.
  2. Roll out dough, place cheese mixture inside, and fold the dumplings.
  3. Steam for 10-12 minutes and serve with a dipping sauce.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Question) on Types of Momo in Nepal

How many types of momo are there?

There are mainly two types of momo: Steamed momo and Fried momo. Within these, there are different variations based on the filling such as:

What is the difference between Jhol and momo?

Momo refers to the traditional dumplings filled with either meat or vegetables and usually served steamed or fried.

Jhol momo is a variant of momo served with a spicy, flavorful soup (jhol). It is essentially steamed momo in a tangy and spicy broth, often with a mix of herbs and spices, making it distinct from regular momo which is served with dipping sauces.

How much does 1 plate momo cost in Nepal?

The price of a plate of momo in Nepal can vary depending on the location and type of momo. On average, a plate of momo costs:

Prices are higher in touristy areas and upscale restaurants.

What is the national dish of Nepali momo?

The national dish of Nepal is often considered to be Dal Bhat (lentil soup with rice), not momo. However, momo is one of the most beloved and popular snacks or street food in Nepal and is enjoyed by people from all walks of life.

Conclusion: A Momo for Every Taste

From Jhol Momo to Khuwa Momo, Nepal offers a variety of momo types that suit every taste. Whether you're a fan of spicy food, crispy textures, or sweet flavors, there’s a momo for everyone. These dumplings not only serve as a delicious meal but also showcase the rich cultural heritage of Nepal.

So, the next time you find yourself in Nepal (or at a Nepali restaurant), don't forget to try these different types of momo. And if you're feeling adventurous, try making them yourself with the recipes above! Happy momo tasting!