What are momos? A Quintessential Nepali Treat

Haven’t tried momos yet?; well, you’re in for a treat! 

It’s no surprise that anyone who’s been to Nepal has, at least once, tried Momos. They’re available almost anywhere across the country as they are a staple food of Nepali cuisine. Today, they’re popular even beyond this Himalayan nation for their amazing taste making them a beloved street food across South Asia and even North-American countries like Canada. But, to begin with, what are momos and where did they originate?

What Are Momos?

Momos are dumplings made from a simple dough of flour and water, filled with a variety of ingredients like minced meat, vegetables, and spices. They can be steamed, fried, or boiled and are often served with a dipping sauce.

The Origin of Momos

Momos have their roots in the chilly, mountainous regions of Nepal and Tibet. These delightful dumplings were initially enjoyed as a hearty meal to warm up from the cold, but today, they’ve become a favourite snack or meal for people of all ages. From street vendors to high-end Nepali restaurants, momos have found their place in the hearts (and stomachs) of food lovers everywhere.

A World of Momo Varieties

One of the best things about momos is their versatility. Whether you prefer them steamed, fried, or swimming in a spicy broth, there’s a momo for every taste. Traditional Nepali momos are usually filled with minced meat—think chicken, pork, or buffalo—but veggie versions are just as popular, often bursting with flavours like garlic, ginger, and soy sauce.

But that’s just the beginning! There are so many ways to enjoy momos:

• Steamed Momos: The classic way to enjoy momos—soft, tender, and full of flavour.
• Fried Momos: For those who love a bit of crunch, fried momos offer a crispy exterior with a juicy interior.
• Jhol Momos: Served in a spicy, soupy broth, jhol momos are perfect for warming up on a cold day.

The Cultural Significance of Momos

In Nepal, momos are more than just a meal—they’re a symbol of hospitality and togetherness. Whether it’s a festival, family gathering, or just a casual get-together, momos are often at the center of the celebration. Making momos is also a communal activity, with family members gathering in the kitchen to roll out dough, prepare fillings, and fold the dumplings into their signature crescent shapes.

The Art of Momo Making

Making momos from scratch is a true labour of love. It all starts with the dough, made from simple ingredients like all-purpose flour and water. The dough is kneaded until it’s smooth and elastic, then rolled out into small circles. The filling, whether it’s minced meat or a mix of seasoned vegetables, is prepared and placed in the center of each dough circle. Finally, the dumplings are folded and sealed with care before being cooked to perfection.

There are several cooking methods to choose from:

• Steaming: The most traditional way, resulting in soft, moist dumplings.
• Frying: For a crunchy twist, momos can be deep-fried until golden and crispy.
• Boiling: Another option is to boil the momos, often served in a flavourful broth.

Serving and Savouring Momos

No momo experience is complete without a side of dipping sauce. The most common accompaniment is a tomato-based chutney, often spiced with sesame seeds, garlic, and chilies for a tangy kick. If you’re enjoying jhol momos, the broth itself is a burst of flavour that perfectly complements the dumplings.

Enjoying Momos at Regina

Now if you’re craving to try authentic Nepali momos in Regina, you can give our restaurant a visit. We have a variety of momos from chicken to vegetarian, so there’s something for everyone.