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!
Table of Content
- 1. What are momos?
- 2. Where did they originate?
- 3. Why are momos popular in Canada and across the world?
- 4. Different Types of Momos Available at Balti Indian Restaurant
- 5. Nutritional Information of Different Types of Momos
- 6. Easy and Delicious Homemade Momo Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide
- 7. Where can I order Momos?
- 8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About: Momos
- 9. Conclusion
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 in northern India, and now has 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, and stir-fried in sweet, sour, and spicy sauces to create an explosion of flavours.
Explore more about: What are Chillie Veggie Momo
- 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.
Explore more about: What are Chilli Chicken Momo
- 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.
Explore more about: What are Tandoori Chicken Momo
- Tandoori Veg Momo
Vegetarians also need not be left out of the 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.
Explore more About: What are Butter Momo
- 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.
Explore more about: What are Steamed Momo
- 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.
Explore more about: Balti Indian Restaurant Niagara Menu and Balti Indian Restaurant Whitby Menu
Nutritional Information of Different Types of Momos
| Type of Momo | Calories (per serving) | Protein (g) | Carbs (g) | Fat (g) | Main Ingredients |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chilli Veg Momo | 150-200 | 4-5 | 25-30 | 6-8 | Mixed vegetables, sweet-sour-spicy sauce |
| Chilli Chicken Momo | 180-220 | 10-12 | 20-25 | 8-10 | Tender chicken, spicy sauce |
| Tandoori Chicken Momo | 200-250 | 15-18 | 20-25 | 12-14 | Tandoori chicken, curd-based sauce |
| Butter Chicken Momo | 250-300 | 15-20 | 22-25 | 15-18 | Chicken, butter, tomato sauce |
| Butter Veg Momo | 250-300 | 5-7 | 22-27 | 14-16 | Vegetables, butter sauce |
| Steamed Momo (Veg/Chicken) | 120-150 | 6-8 | 18-22 | 4-6 | Chicken/vegetables, flour dough |
| Pan-Fried Momo (Veg/Chicken) | 180-220 | 8-10 | 20-24 | 9-12 | Chicken/vegetables, pan-fried |
| Jhol Momo (Veg/Chicken) | 180-230 | 7-10 | 25-30 | 5-8 | Dumplings in spicy broth (tomatoes, sesame seeds) |
Key Notes:
- Calories: Varies based on the preparation method (steamed, fried, or buttered).
- Protein, Carbs, and Fat: Amounts are approximate and can vary depending on the size of the momo and specific ingredients used.
- Main Ingredients: Provides a quick insight into what each momo contains and its unique taste.
Easy and Delicious Homemade Momo Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide
Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Water (as needed)
For the filling:
- 1 cup finely chopped vegetables (cabbage, carrots, onions, and peas) or minced chicken (for a non-vegetarian option)
- 1 tbsp oil
- 1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
- 1-2 green chillies, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp cumin powder (optional)
For steaming:
- Water (for steaming)
Instructions:
- Prepare the dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Gradually add water and knead the dough until smooth and firm.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 30 minutes.
- Prepare the filling:
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté for a minute until fragrant.
- Add the chopped vegetables or minced chicken and cook until the filling is tender.
- Stir in the soy sauce, black pepper, salt, and cumin powder. Let the mixture cool.
- Shape the momos:
- Once the dough has rested, divide it into small balls and roll them into thin circles (about 3-4 inches in diameter).
- Place a spoonful of the filling in the centre of each dough circle.
- Fold the dough around the filling and pinch the edges to seal them, making pleats if desired.
- Steam the momos:
- Grease a steamer basket or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Place the momos in the steamer, ensuring they don’t touch each other.
- Steam the momos for about 10-12 minutes until the dough turns translucent and cooked through.
- Serve:
- Serve your freshly steamed momos with a spicy dipping sauce or chutney of your choice.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About: Momos
1) What are momos made of?
Momos are made from a simple dough of flour and water, which is then filled with various ingredients such as vegetables, chicken, or other meats. After being filled, they are typically steamed, pan-fried, or deep-fried. The dumplings are often served with a flavourful dipping sauce.
2) What is so special about momos?
Momos are special because of their versatility, diverse fillings, and unique blend of Nepali, Tibetan, and Indian flavours. They have a satisfying texture with a soft outer layer and flavourful filling inside. Momos can be enjoyed in various ways – steamed, fried, or served in a spicy broth, making them a delightful and comforting dish for all tastes.
3) What is the difference between a dumpling and a momo?
While both dumplings and momos are similar in that they are dough-based and filled with ingredients, momos are a specific type of dumpling from Nepal and Tibet. The main differences lie in the fillings and the cooking method. Momos often have bold, spiced fillings and are typically steamed, pan-fried, or served in a soup (Jhol Momo). Dumplings can have a variety of global interpretations, including different fillings and cooking styles like boiling or pan-frying.
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.