Lifestyle & Culture

Introduction to Nepali Food

All Nepali restaurants in DFW also feature a selection of North Indian dishes, such as curries, tandoori items, and biryani.

Nepali food is typically less spicy than Indian food, meaning it uses fewer curry masalas, and is generally less rich. Do not confuse less spicey with less hot. Nepalese food could be extremely hot (with red and green chili).

Unlike many North Indian dishes Nepalese foods do not use cream, yogurt, butter therefore less rich. Nepali gravies tend to be waterier than thick.

Nepali people eat primarily rice. Therefore bread (Tandoori, Roti, Tortilla, Naan etc.) is usually not included in Nepali Meal.  

Main Nepali Food:

Momo:

Momo, Nepal’s most popular dish, is a beloved dumpling filled with either meat or vegetables. Originating from Tibet, it has become incredibly popular even in  India as well.

Momo Varieties:

    • Steamed Momo: This is the traditional preparation, typically served with a rich, tomato-based dipping sauce called achar. Some establishments also offer it with a clear broth.

    • Kothay Momo: A delightful variation where steamed mom are pan/air-fried to achieve a crispy exterior while retaining their juicy interior.

    • Jhol Momo: For those seeking a bolder flavor, Jhol Momo features steamed dumplings submerged in a potent, liquid sauce. Its intense taste is often recommended for more adventurous palates.

Momo fillings are diverse, ranging from vegetarian options to chicken, mutton, and, particularly in Kathmandu, buffalo meat. Indian versions have innovative variations like butter chicken Momo and tikka masala Momo. But, I try to stay away from them.

Sekuwa:

It is charcoal grilled skewers. You can get it Chicken, Mutton etc. If you order it as Khaja (tiffin) set – it comes with puffed rice, fried soyabeans, sauteed potatoes.

Thali Set (Usually also called Thakali Thali)

It is a set meal with rice, vegetables, lentils and some side dishes and your choice of meat. Most restaurants refill rice, veggies and lentils. But not meat.

What to order?

If you are trying Nepali food for the first time. For two people – order 1 steam Momo, 1 Sekuwa set and 1 Thali (with your choice of meat) – ask for extra empty plates to share.

If you have more people then you can add another variety of Momo, and maybe an Indian item like Tikka Masala, Tandoori etc.