Nepalese Dumplings (Momo) with Achar Sauce

A Taste of the Himalayas

Introduction

Momo, or Nepalese dumplings, are a staple in Himalayan cuisine, offering a delicate balance of spiced chicken filling wrapped in soft dumpling dough. These juicy dumplings are traditionally steamed and served with a bold and flavorful achar sauce made from tomatoes, chili, and toasted sesame seeds. This dish is a must-try for dumpling lovers looking to explore authentic Nepalese flavors.

Ingredients

• For the Dumplings:
  • 40 dumpling wrappers
  • 500g minced chicken
  • ½ red onion, finely chopped
  • ½ cup spring onion, finely chopped
  • ½ cup fresh coriander, finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp ginger, grated
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp red chili powder
  • 1 tsp garam masala
  • Salt to taste
  • 2 tbsp melted butter or ghee
• For the Achar Sauce:
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 2 red chilies, chopped
  • 1 tbsp garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp ginger, grated
  • 4 medium tomatoes, chopped
  • ½ tsp turmeric
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • Salt, to taste
  • 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
  • ¼ cup fresh coriander
• For Serving:
  • Chili oil (optional)
  • Fresh coriander
  • Sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dumpling Filling:
   • In a bowl, mix minced chicken, red onion, spring onion, coriander, garlic, ginger, turmeric, chili powder, garam masala, salt, and melted butter until well combined.
2. Shape the Dumplings:
   • Place 1 tsp of filling in the center of a dumpling wrapper.
   • Wet the edges with water, then pleat and pinch the wrapper using your index fingers and thumbs to form a money bag shape.
   • Ensure the dumpling is completely sealed at the top.
3. Steam the Dumplings:
   • Place the dumplings in a steamer over medium-high heat and steam for 8-10 minutes, or until fully cooked.
4. Prepare the Achar Sauce:
   • Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
   • Add chopped red chilies, garlic, and ginger. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
   • Stir in the tomatoes, turmeric, chili powder, and salt. Cook for 5 minutes until the tomatoes soften.
   • Transfer the mixture to a blender, add toasted sesame seeds and fresh coriander, and blend until smooth.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Spoon a generous amount of achar sauce onto a serving plate.
   • Arrange the dumplings on top and drizzle with chili oil.
   • Garnish with fresh coriander and sesame seeds.

Tips for Success

• Seal the Dumplings Properly: This prevents them from opening while steaming.
• Use Ghee for Richness: Adding melted butter or ghee makes the filling extra juicy.
• Toast the Sesame Seeds: This enhances the nutty flavor of the achar sauce.

Why This Recipe Works

The juicy, spiced chicken filling pairs beautifully with the bold, tangy achar sauce, while the delicate dumpling wrappers provide the perfect bite. These authentic Nepalese momos are a flavorful and satisfying dish you’ll want to make again and again!