Dough Ingredients:
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All-purpose flour – 2 cups
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Warm water – approximately ½ cup (adjust as needed)
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Salt – ¼ teaspoon
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Oil – 1 tablespoon (optional, for added softness)
Preparation:
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
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Gradually add warm water while mixing to form a soft, pliable dough.
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Knead the dough for about 10 minutes until smooth.
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Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
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Cabbage – 1 cup, finely chopped
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Carrots – 1 cup, grated
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Onions – 1 cup, finely chopped
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Mushrooms – ½ cup, finely chopped (optional)
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Paneer – ½ cup, grated (optional, for added richness)
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Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
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Ginger – 1 tablespoon, minced
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Green chilies – 1-2, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
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Soy sauce – 1 tablespoon
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Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
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Salt – to taste
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Cilantro (Coriander leaves) – ¼ cup, chopped
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Oil – 1 tablespoon
Preparation:
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Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
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Sauté garlic, ginger, and green chilies until fragrant.
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Add onions and cook until translucent.
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Stir in cabbage, carrots, mushrooms, and paneer (if using). Cook for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are tender but not mushy.
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Add soy sauce, black pepper, and salt. Mix well.
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Stir in chopped cilantro.
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Remove from heat and let the filling cool to room temperature.
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Divide the rested dough into small balls (about the size of a walnut).
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Roll each ball into a thin circle, approximately 3-4 inches in diameter.
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Place a tablespoon of filling in the center of each wrapper.
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Fold and pleat the edges to seal the momo. You can shape them into half-moons or round purses.
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Place the prepared momos on a greased steamer tray, ensuring they don't touch each other.
🔥 Cooking the Momos:
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Bring water to a boil in a steamer.
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Place the steamer tray over the boiling water and cover with a lid.
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Steam the momos for 10-12 minutes or until the wrappers become translucent and slightly shiny.
🍅 Serving Suggestion:
Serve the hot momos with a spicy tomato and sesame chutney, commonly known as "momo achar." This tangy dip complements the savory dumplings perfectly.
Conclution
Vegetable momos are a cherished part of Nepali cuisine, offering a delightful combination of taste, nutrition, and cultural significance. These steamed dumplings, traditionally filled with a mix of finely chopped vegetables like cabbage, onion, and carrot, are seasoned with aromatic spices such as ginger, garlic, and momo masala. The dough, made from all-purpose flour and water, encases the flavorful filling, resulting in a soft and satisfying bite. Often served with a spicy tomato-based chutney or jhol achar, vegetable momos are not just a popular street food but also a staple in Nepali households, reflecting the country's rich culinary heritage and the adaptability of its traditional dishes to vegetarian preferences .