How to Make Momos at Home?

Whether filled with meat or veggies, momos are some of the most irresistible tasting delicacies from Nepal. Fortunately, you can find them in diners across Canada that aren’t even necessarily labeled as Nepalese. For instance, you might find momos in Niagara Falls at an Indian Restaurant as well Momos at Home. 

However, if you’re looking to try making them at home by yourself, we’ve got you covered. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of making momos and chutney that accompany it. So, without further ado, let’s put on your apron and start cooking.

Ingredients for Momos

Here are all the ingredients that you’ll be needing to make momos at home.

• Dough:
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • Water (as needed)
  • Pinch of salt
• Filling (Chicken/Vegetarian):
  • 250g ground chicken (or vegetables like cabbage, carrot, and mushroom)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
  • 2 green chilies, finely chopped
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 tsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Process: How to Make Momos

Now that you’ve prepared all the necessary ingredients, let’s start cooking.

1. Prepare the Dough:

• In a bowl, mix 2 cups of all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt. Gradually add water while kneading to form a smooth, elastic dough.
• Once the dough is ready, cover it with a damp cloth and let it rest for 20 minutes.

2. Prepare the Filling:

• If using chicken, mix the ground meat with onions, garlic, ginger, chilies, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper.
• If opting for a vegetarian filling, finely chop cabbage, carrots, mushrooms, and onions, then mix with the same seasonings.
• Ensure the filling is well combined and taste-adjust the seasoning as needed.

3. Shape the Momos:

• Divide the dough into small, equal-sized balls.
• Roll out each ball into a thin, round sheet, about 3-4 inches in diameter.
• Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each dough circle.
• Fold the edges to seal the momos, creating a half-moon or round shape. Pinch tightly to ensure no gaps (this keeps the filling intact while steaming).

4. Steam the Momos:

• Prepare a steamer and grease the tray with a bit of oil.
• Place the momos on the tray without overcrowding them.
• Steam for about 12-15 minutes or until the outer layer becomes translucent.
• Serve hot with chutney!

How to Make Momos Chutney

The spicy tomato-based chutney that accompanies momos is a must-try. Here’s a simple recipe to complement your homemade momos:

Ingredients for Chutney:

• 4-5 ripe tomatoes
• 2-3 dried red chilies
• 3 cloves garlic
• 1-inch piece of ginger
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tbsp oil
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Steps:

1. Boil the tomatoes and dried red chilies for about 5 minutes. Once done, peel the tomatoes and set them aside.
2. In a pan, heat oil and add cumin seeds, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the boiled tomatoes and red chilies to the pan. Cook for another 5 minutes, then blend everything into a smooth paste.
4. Season with salt, garnish with fresh cilantro, and your chutney is ready!

Time to Enjoy

So, there you have it! A step-by-step process on how you can make delicious momos at home all by yourself. Make sure to dip your momo in that spicy chutney before devouring it all. 

Want to Enjoy Momos Without the Work?

Uh-oh, is the above recipe or cooking instructions too much to handle? If so, or if you’d just like to enjoy momos made authentically by a Nepalese chef, you can visit a Nepali or Indian restaurant in Niagara Falls or within your city and enjoy. Many restaurants offer dine-in, pickup, and online ordering options, so you can enjoy authentic momos at your comfort place. Enjoy the essence of Nepal, one momo at a time!