Is this the first time you’ve heard the word ‘Momo’ and wanted to learn what this peculiar looking word represented? Or even better, did you recently have a taste of momos filling your heart with the desire to taste it again and try all the varieties available? Well, you’re not alone. This Nepali dish has left most of us wondering what they really are and where they originated from.
These small pouches of delight, otherwise known as momos, are a must for every food and adventure lover. Be you a seasoned momo-lover or completely new to these Nepali delights, we are here to take you on a delicious journey through their origin, taste, and all the exciting varieties of momo available at Balti Indian Restaurant. So, grab a glass of water as by the end of this blog, you’ll be craving for momos like never before!
What are momos?
Momos are a type of dumpling, with delicious fillings inside. A typical momo consists of flour dough filled with vegetables, chicken, or any other food items, then steamed, pan-fried, or deep-fried. They are usually served with a dipping sauce to give them an enriching taste. Though they look very similar to the Chinese dumplings, momos have their own unique character, combining the Nepalese, Tibetan, and Indian influences into a special cuisine.
Where did they originate?
Momos originated in Tibet and Nepal due to the cold mountainous climate. Traditionally, it is served with yak meat, while Nepali cuisine brought more varieties into the dish for vegetarians and non-vegetarians. Momos slowly gained popularity throughout India, especially northern India, and now have spread throughout the world like wildfires.
Why are momos popular in Canada and across the world?
Not only have momos become one of the most popular snacks across the world, but they have also cemented their mark as one of the favourites among the people of Canada. And there’s more than just one reason for this popularity. First, they are versatile; there are possibilities for a line of fillings and cookery methods to suit each palate. Second, the compact size and easy-to-eat format make them perfect for quick bites or on-the-go meals.
Momos have carved their niche from Nepalese and Indian restaurants to food trucks and introduced many Canadians to the bold flavours of the Himalayas during the rise of multicultural dining across Canada. Warm and full of flavours, its appeal strikes a chord with many. And for many Canadians, momos have turned out to be the comfort food their taste buds resonate with.
Different Types of Momos Available at Balti Indian Restaurant
- Chilli Veggie Momo
If you’re a vegetarian who loves spicy food, chilli veggie momos are a good choice. These momos, either steamed or fried, are packed with a mix of finely chopped vegetables, stir-fried in sweet, sour, and spicy sauces to create an explosion of flavours.
- Chilli Chicken Momo
On the contrary, if you’re a meat-lover who loves spicy food, chilli chicken momos are great for you. They provide that same struck note of heat, albeit with a protein-heavy filling. The dumpling is oozing with tender chicken, and this goes well with our homemade spicy dipping sauce.
- Tandoori Chicken Momo
Now, if you’re in search of an Indian twist to traditional momos, tandoori chicken momos are the perfect blend of Nepali and Indian flavours, mixed with a curd-based tandoori sauce, and then grilled to perfection. All of these combinations give an intense, charred flavour that catapults momos to a whole new level.
- Tandoori Veg Momo
Vegetarians also need not be left out of tandoori fun that an Indian twist can bring to traditional Nepali momos. Tandoori veg momos are grilled in a tandoor to achieve that smoky flavour, and packed with different types of spices and vegetables that transcend you to another dimension in every bite.
- Butter Chicken Momo
For those who seek to add butter in everything, here comes butter chicken momos. These are really succulent chicken-filled momos draped with the rich, buttery tomato sauce of the classic butter chicken curry, all combined into one iconic dish.
- Butter Veg Momo
The concept of butter veg momos is pretty similar to that of butter chicken momos, but it’s for vegetarians. A kind of momos with a filling full of veggies smothered in rich and creamy butter sauce. A timelessly decadent vegetarian delight that arises from a combination like this is one thing nobody can resist.
- Steamed Momo (Vegetarian/Chicken)
The all-time favourite is still the steamed momo. Filled with tender chicken or a mix of fresh vegetables, these humble yet delicious dumplings unfold the real taste of momos in their actual form.
- Pan Fried Momo (Vegetarian/Chicken)
Icing on the cake: those who like a crispy bite, pan-fried momos are your safety net. Pan-fried momos are those that have been steamed prior to being lightly pan-fried so they intensely get crispy outside and juicy inside.
- Jhol Momo (Vegetarian/Chicken)
Jhol momos are a popular Nepalese snack: served in a broth or “jhol” of spices, sesame seeds, and tomatoes, soft momos soak up the broth to give a soupy momo experience that is comforting and delicious.
Where can I order Momos?
You can enjoy all the above mentioned variations of momos at Balti Indian Restaurant. Want to enjoy at home? Sure, simply order your favourite variation of momos through our website for pick up or delivery.
Conclusion
Momos have quickly become a global favourite for their versatility, flavour, and simplicity. Whether you’re craving something spicy, creamy, smoky, or crispy, there’s a momo variety for every taste. From their humble origins in the Himalayas, these dumplings have traversed borders and landed on plates across Canada, offering everyone a taste of Nepalese tradition and hospitality.