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Nepali Momo

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๐ŸฅŸ Authentic Steamed Momos: juicy spiced chicken filling wrapped in thin chewy dough, steamed to perfection for explosive flavor in every bite.
๐Ÿฒ Nepali-Tibetan street food favorite โ€“ easy homemade version customizable with veggies, ideal party app or light meal packed with protein!

  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings (24-30 momos)

Ingredients

– 2 cups (250 g) white flour Forms the base dough for steamed momo wrappers

– 3/4 cup (180 ml) water Hydrates flour to make a pliable wrapper dough

– 1 to 2 tbsp oil (optional) Improves dough texture and helps wrappers stay tender

– 500 g minced meat (chicken, buffalo, or pork) Traditional protein for the momo filling

– 1 medium onion, finely chopped or grated (about 120 g) Adds moisture and savory depth

– 3 cloves garlic, minced (about 9 g) Builds the classic Nepali flavor profile

– 2 tsp ginger-garlic paste or 1 tbsp grated ginger (about 10 g total) Adds warmth and aroma

– 1 to 2 tsp cumin powder Provides a traditional spice note

– 1 tsp ground black pepper Balances richness and boosts flavor

– 1 tsp salt (to taste) Seasons the filling

– 1 to 1.5 cups chopped vegetables (potatoes, leeks, or a mix) Adds bulk and sweetness from starchy or mild vegetables

– 1/2 cup chopped radish (optional) Adds a Nepali-style bite and slight sharpness

– 1/2 tsp dried fenugreek (optional) Used in some Nepali styles for a distinct aroma

– 1 to 2 tbsp chopped cilantro (optional) Freshens the filling before wrapping

– 400 g finely chopped cabbage Vegetarian filling base (replace meat)

– 1 cup chopped green beans Adds texture and volume

– 1 cup chopped mushrooms Brings umami for vegetarian Nepali dumplings

– 200 g paneer or soft cheese Adds creaminess to veggie momo filling

– 300 g milk solids (for sweet momo) Sweet variety filling element

– 2 to 4 tbsp sugar (to taste) Sweetens the filling for dessert momos

Instructions

1-First Step: Make the dough. Combine 2 cups white flour with 3/4 cup water and mix until shaggy. Add 1 to 2 tbsp oil if you want a softer texture, then knead until smooth. Cover and rest for 15 to 20 minutes so the gluten relaxes.

2-Second Step: Prepare the momo filling. In a bowl, mix minced meat with finely chopped onion, minced garlic, ginger-garlic paste, cumin powder, black pepper, salt, and chopped vegetables like potatoes and leeks. For juiciness, use fatty meat or add a small drizzle of oil if your meat is lean. Mix until the mixture looks cohesive, then chill 10 to 15 minutes while you roll dough.

3-Third Step: Roll dough into small circles. Divide the dough into portions, then roll each portion into a thin rope and cut small pieces. Roll each piece into a small circle (aim for uniform thickness) so cooking stays even. If the dough sticks, dust lightly with flour.

4-Fourth Step: Add filling and shape into rounds or half-moons. Place about 1 tsp filling in the center of each circle. Fold and pinch to seal; you can make a traditional round pouch or a half-moon shape. If you want a stronger seal, lightly moisten the edge with water before folding.

5-Fifth Step: Steam the momos. Set up a mucktoo steamer or similar steamer with a light oil coating or parchment. Steam until the wrappers look translucent, typically 10 to 12 minutes depending on momo size. Do not overcrowd, or the momos may stick and cook unevenly.

6-Final Step: Finish and serve hot. Serve immediately with chili garlic sauce or pickled daikon and tomato chutneys. If you prefer jhol momo, simmer the steamed momos briefly in spicy broth with vegetable sauce before serving.

Last Step:

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Notes

๐ŸฅŸ Knead dough well and rest to achieve thin, pliable wrappers that don’t tear.
๐Ÿ”ฅ Use fatty ground chicken or add extra oil for juicy, flavorful filling.
๐ŸŒฟ Mix filling by hand vigorously to develop sticky proteins for better texture.

  • Author: Brandi Oshea
  • Prep Time: 45 minutes
  • Dough Resting: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Steaming
  • Cuisine: Nepali

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6-8 momos
  • Calories: 420 kcal
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg