Momos are soft dumplings filled with spiced vegetables or meat, a much-loved street food in Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan, and parts of India, especially Sikkim and Darjeeling. These dumplings are usually steamed but can also be fried or pan-fried. They’re served hot with a bold, spicy dipping sauce made with tomatoes, garlic, and chilies. Momos are tender, juicy, and full of flavor—perfect as a snack, starter, or light meal. This recipe serves 4 and makes about 20–24 momos.
Ingredients
For the Dough:
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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½ teaspoon salt
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Water, as needed
For the Filling (Vegetable version):
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1 cup finely chopped cabbage
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½ cup grated carrot
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½ cup finely chopped onions
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2 tablespoons finely chopped spring onions
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1 tablespoon finely chopped garlic
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1 teaspoon finely chopped ginger
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1 green chili, finely chopped (optional)
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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1 tablespoon oil
For the Dipping Sauce:
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2 medium tomatoes
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3–4 dried red chilies
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2 garlic cloves
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Salt to taste
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1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice
Instructions
1. Make the Dough
In a bowl, mix flour and salt. Gradually add water and knead into a smooth, firm dough. Cover and rest it for 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling
Heat oil in a pan. Add garlic, ginger, and green chili. Sauté for a few seconds. Add onions and cook until soft. Stir in cabbage, carrot, spring onions, salt, pepper, and soy sauce. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly. Let the filling cool.
3. Shape the Momos
Divide the dough into small balls. Roll each ball into a thin circle about 3 inches wide. Place a spoonful of filling in the center. Fold and pinch the edges to seal, making pleats or a simple half-moon shape.
4. Steam the Momos
Arrange the shaped momos in a greased steamer basket, leaving space between each. Steam over boiling water for about 10–12 minutes, or until the dough looks shiny and slightly translucent.
5. Make the Sauce
Boil tomatoes and dried chilies together for 5–7 minutes. Cool, peel the tomatoes, and blend with chilies, garlic, salt, and vinegar until smooth. You can add a little water to adjust consistency.
6. Serve
Serve hot momos with the spicy tomato dipping sauce on the side. You can also enjoy them with soy sauce or chili oil.
Momos are comforting and flavorful—steamed parcels filled with warmth and spice. They bring together soft dough, savory filling, and spicy chutney in a way that makes you crave more with each bite.
