Momo (Nepali Dumplings) Recipe

Momo is a popular Nepali dish featuring steamed dumplings filled with a mixture of minced meat and vegetables. They are often served with a spicy tomato and sesame chutney. Here’s how to make them:

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Water, as needed

For the Filling:

• 300g minced meat (chicken, pork, or beef)
• 1 cup finely chopped cabbage
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, minced
• 2 green chilies, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped

For the Chutney:

• 2 large tomatoes, chopped
• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece ginger, minced
• 2 dried red chilies
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt.
   • Gradually add water and knead until a smooth and elastic dough forms.
   • Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a large bowl, combine the minced meat, chopped cabbage, onion, garlic, ginger, green chilies, soy sauce, ground cumin, salt, and pepper.
   • Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
3. Make the Momos:
   • Divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a walnut.
   • Roll each ball into a thin disc, about 3 inches in diameter.
   • Place a spoonful of the filling in the center of each disc.
   • Fold the edges of the dough over the filling and pinch to seal, forming a pleated dumpling shape.
   • Repeat with the remaining dough and filling.
4. Steam the Momos:
   • Arrange the momos in a steamer basket, making sure they are not touching each other.
   • Steam the momos over boiling water for about 10-15 minutes, or until the dough is cooked and the filling is heated through.
5. Prepare the Chutney:
   • In a frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
   • Add the sesame seeds, garlic, ginger, and dried red chilies. Sauté until fragrant.
   • Add the chopped tomatoes and cook until they break down into a sauce.
   • Season with salt to taste.
   • Blend the mixture into a smooth chutney.
6. Serve:
   • Arrange the steamed momos on a serving platter.
   • Serve with a side of spicy tomato and sesame chutney, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Enjoy your Nepali Momos, a delicious and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion!