Momos
Nepali Momos Recipe with Beef, Garlic, Ginger, Green Onions, and Cilantro
Introduction
Momos are a popular Tibetan dish that has made its way into the hearts and stomachs of people all over the world. These delicious dumplings are typically filled with a mixture of ground meat, vegetables, and spices, then steamed to perfection. Momos are perfect for a cozy night in or as a party appetizer that will surely impress your guests.
History
Momos originated in Tibet and are a traditional dish in Tibetan cuisine. They are believed to have been brought to Tibet by Nepalese traders and have since become a staple in Tibetan households. Momos have evolved over time and are now enjoyed in various forms and flavors across different regions.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (454 g) ground beef
- 4 to 5 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2-inch piece of ginger, minced
- 3 to 4 green onions, chopped
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 2 pinches of fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 dashes of soy sauce
- wonton wrapper skins (available in most supermarkets)
How to prepare
- Mix all the ingredients mentioned above (except the wrappers) together. Place a scoop of filling in the center of each wrapper, then fold it in half or into a triangle shape and seal the edges tightly by moistening them and pressing them together. Apply a thin layer of vegetable oil on the surface of the steamer rack to prevent the momos from sticking. Ensure that the momos do not touch each other on the rack and that the water is already boiling before placing the momos in. Steam for 13 minutes. Serve the momos while they are still warm, accompanied by tomato Achar.
Variations
- Vegetarian momos: Substitute the ground beef with tofu or a mixture of vegetables for a vegetarian option.
- Spicy momos: Add chili flakes or hot sauce to the filling for an extra kick of heat.
- Cheese momos: Add a sprinkle of grated cheese to the filling for a gooey and delicious twist.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to seal the edges of the momos tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out during steaming.
- Use a steamer rack with enough space between each momo to ensure even cooking.
- Experiment with different fillings and spices to create your own unique momo recipe.
Serving Suggestions
Momos can be served with a side of tomato Achar or a spicy dipping sauce for added flavor.
Cooking Techniques
Steaming is the traditional method of cooking momos, but they can also be pan-fried or deep-fried for a crispy texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
Ground chicken or pork can be used as a substitute for ground beef.
- Tamari or coconut aminos can be used in place of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
Make Ahead Tips
Momos can be assembled ahead of time and frozen for later use. Simply steam them when ready to eat.
Presentation Ideas
Arrange the momos on a platter and garnish with fresh cilantro or sesame seeds for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Momos pair well with a side of steamed rice or a light salad for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Leftover momos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a steamer or microwave until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of momos contains approximately 250 calories.
Carbohydrates
Each serving of momos contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
Each serving of momos contains approximately 10 grams of fats.
Proteins
Each serving of momos contains approximately 15 grams of proteins.
Vitamins and minerals
Momos are a good source of iron, vitamin B12, and zinc.
Alergens
Momos may contain allergens such as soy and wheat.
Summary
Momos are a balanced meal that provides a good amount of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. They are also rich in vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious choice for a meal or snack.
Summary
Momos are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a snack or a main course. With a flavorful filling and a soft, steamed wrapper, momos are sure to satisfy your cravings for something savory and comforting. Try making your own momos at home with this easy and tasty recipe!
How did I get this recipe?
I have a clear recollection of the first time I saw this recipe. It was many years ago, during one of my travels through the beautiful country of Nepal. I was wandering through the bustling streets of Kathmandu, taking in the vibrant sights and sounds of this exotic place, when I stumbled upon a small, hole-in-the-wall restaurant.
The delightful aroma of spices and cooking wafted through the air, drawing me towards the open kitchen where I saw a group of women deftly shaping and filling delicate dumplings. These dumplings, I later learned, were called Momos – a traditional Nepalese dish that has since become a staple in my own kitchen.
Intrigued by the process, I struck up a conversation with the head chef, a kind and generous woman named Sita. She took me under her wing and taught me the secrets of making perfect Momos. From that day on, I knew that this recipe would become a treasured addition to my culinary repertoire.
The first step in making Momos, Sita explained, was preparing the filling. She showed me how to finely chop a mixture of vegetables – cabbage, carrots, and onions – and combine them with minced chicken, garlic, ginger, and a medley of spices. This fragrant mixture was then sautéed until tender and flavorful, creating a delicious filling for the dumplings.
Next, Sita demonstrated how to make the dough for the Momos. She mixed together flour, water, and a pinch of salt, kneading the dough until it was smooth and elastic. With practiced hands, she rolled out the dough into small rounds, filling each one with a spoonful of the savory filling before folding and pleating the edges to create a perfect little package.
Once the Momos were assembled, Sita taught me how to steam them to perfection. She placed the dumplings in a bamboo steamer, stacking them carefully to ensure they cooked evenly. As the steam rose around us, the tantalizing aroma of the Momos filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.
After a few minutes of steaming, Sita declared the Momos ready. She carefully lifted them out of the steamer, arranging them on a platter and garnishing them with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a drizzle of spicy dipping sauce. The Momos were a sight to behold – plump and steaming, with a golden brown crust that promised a burst of flavor with every bite.
I eagerly took my first bite of the Momos, savoring the tender dough and the flavorful filling that melted in my mouth. It was a taste sensation unlike any I had experienced before, a perfect balance of savory and spicy that left me craving more.
From that day on, I made Momos regularly in my own kitchen, honing my skills and perfecting the recipe with each batch. I experimented with different fillings – from traditional chicken and vegetable to exotic combinations like lamb and mint – and shared the dish with family and friends who were always eager to taste my latest creation.
Over the years, I have passed on the recipe for Momos to my children and grandchildren, ensuring that this beloved dish will continue to be a part of our family tradition for generations to come. And every time I make Momos, I am transported back to that tiny kitchen in Kathmandu, where a kind and generous woman taught me the art of creating something truly delicious and unforgettable.
Categories
| Beef Recipes | Bhutani Meat Dishes | Bhutani Recipes | Nepalese Recipes | Yellow Onion Recipes |