Momos I

Momos I Recipe - Delicious Vegetarian Dish from Tibet

Region / culture: Tibet | Preparation time: 45 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Momos are a type of dumpling popular in Nepal, Tibet, and the Himalayan regions of India. These delicious dumplings are typically filled with a mixture of ground meat, vegetables, and spices, and are steamed to perfection. Momos are a favorite street food in these regions and are often served with a spicy dipping sauce.

History

The origins of momos can be traced back to Tibet, where they are a traditional food. Over time, momos have become popular in neighboring countries such as Nepal and India, where they are enjoyed as a snack or meal. The recipe has evolved over the years, with different variations and fillings being created to suit different tastes.

Ingredients

Dough

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup water

Meat filling

1 lb (454 g) extra lean ground beef
1 onion, chopped
0.5 lb (227 g) daikon, spinach or cabbage, chopped fine
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
2 green onions, chopped (white and green parts, no roots)
2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
salt

How to prepare

Mix the flour and water together, then knead and form into a ball.
Let the dough rise by covering it with a wet towel or plastic wrap for 30 minutes.
Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
Cut the dough into 12 - 18 pieces and roll them into small flat circles.
Mash all the filling ingredients together.
Place a spoonful of filling on each dough circle, then fold over and crimp to seal.
Place the momos in a steamer and steam on high for 30 minutes.
Serve with a mild tomato salsa called "tsal", made from chopped tomatoes, cilantro, green onions, and garlic, and/or sriracha sauce and/or soy sauce.

Variations

Vegetarian momos: Replace the ground beef with tofu or paneer for a vegetarian version.
Spicy momos: Add chopped green chilies or chili flakes to the filling for a spicy kick.
Cheese momos: Add grated cheese to the filling for a cheesy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to knead the dough well to ensure a smooth and elastic texture.

- When filling the momos, be sure not to overfill them as this can cause them to burst during steaming.

- Steam the momos on high heat to ensure they cook through properly.

- Serve the momos hot with a side of dipping sauce for the best flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Momos can be served as a snack or as a main course with a side of salad or rice.

Cooking Techniques

Steaming is the traditional method of cooking momos, but they can also be pan-fried or deep-fried for a different texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use ground chicken or pork instead of beef for the filling. You can also add different vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the momos ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before steaming.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the momos on a platter with a side of dipping sauce and garnish with chopped cilantro or green onions.

Pairing Recommendations

Momos pair well with a hot cup of chai tea or a cold beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover momos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, steam them for a few minutes until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of momos contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of momos contains approximately 25 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 C, and vitamin A.

Alergens

Momos contain gluten from the all-purpose flour used in the dough. They may also contain soy if soy sauce is used as a dipping sauce.

Summary

Momos are a balanced meal containing carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. They are also a good source of vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Momos are a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a snack or meal. With a flavorful filling and a soft dough, these dumplings are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Momos. It was during one of my travels to the beautiful country of Nepal, where I had the pleasure of tasting these delicious dumplings for the first time. The moment I took my first bite, I knew I had to learn how to make them myself.

I was staying in a small village in the Himalayas, surrounded by majestic mountains and friendly locals. One day, I wandered into a quaint little tea house where I met an elderly woman named Aama. She was known throughout the village for her incredible cooking skills and I was lucky enough to strike up a conversation with her.

Aama welcomed me into her humble kitchen and showed me how to make the traditional Momos. The process was simple yet intricate, requiring a delicate touch and patience. I watched in awe as she expertly filled the dough with a flavorful mixture of minced meat, vegetables, and spices before shaping them into perfect little pockets.

As Aama cooked, she shared stories of her own grandmother who had passed down the recipe to her. She spoke fondly of the memories they had shared in the kitchen, bonding over their love for food and tradition. It was clear to me that there was something truly special about this dish, beyond just its delicious taste.

I spent the next few days learning from Aama, practicing my dumpling-making skills until I felt confident enough to try it on my own. She patiently guided me through each step, offering helpful tips and encouragement along the way. By the time I left the village, I had not only mastered the art of making Momos but had also formed a strong bond with Aama.

Back home, I couldn't wait to share this newfound recipe with my own family. I gathered all the ingredients and set to work in my own kitchen, channeling the same passion and dedication that Aama had shown me. As the aroma of the Momos filled the air, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment.

Over the years, I have continued to make Momos for my loved ones, each time adding my own twist to the recipe. I have experimented with different fillings, sauces, and cooking methods, always striving to create the perfect dumpling. And while I may not be able to replicate the exact flavor of Aama's Momos, I know that I have made them with the same love and care that she did.

In a way, Momos have become more than just a recipe for me. They are a symbol of my passion for cooking, my appreciation for tradition, and my connection to the people and places that have inspired me along the way. And every time I make them, I am reminded of the incredible journey that led me to discover this culinary treasure.

So, the next time you sit down to enjoy a plate of Momos, remember that behind each bite lies a story of love, friendship, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with those you care about. And who knows, maybe one day you'll have your own special recipe to pass down to future generations, just like I did with Aama's Momos.