Nepali cuisine is a hidden gem in the world of food. It’s a beautiful blend of flavors, spices, and traditions that’ll make your taste buds dance.
From hearty dumplings to spicy curries, Nepali food is all about comfort, warmth, and a whole lot of love.
If you’re someone who loves exploring new cuisines, you’re in for a treat.
Get ready to dive into a culinary adventure that’ll leave you craving more.
We’ve rounded up the best Nepali recipes you absolutely need to try at least once in your life.
Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking to spice up your weekly menu, these dishes will blow your mind. Let’s get cooking!
1. Momo The Ultimate Nepali Dumpling
Momo is the crown jewel of Nepali cuisine. These juicy dumplings are stuffed with either veggies or meat, wrapped in a thin dough, and steamed to perfection.
They’re served with a spicy tomato-based dipping sauce that’s downright addictive.
Ingredients:
- For the dough: 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup water, a pinch of salt.
- For the filling: 1 cup minced chicken or veggies (cabbage, carrots, onions), 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste, 1 tsp soy sauce, 1/2 tsp turmeric, salt, and pepper.
- For the sauce: 2 tomatoes, 2 green chilies, 1 garlic clove, 1 tsp sesame oil, salt.
How to make it:
Knead the dough and let it rest. Mix the filling ingredients. Roll out small circles of dough, add the filling, and fold into pleats.
Steam for 10-12 minutes. Blend the sauce ingredients for a tangy dip.
Why we chose it: Momo is the heart and soul of Nepali street food. It’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a must-have.
2. Dal Bhat The Comfort Food Staple
Dal Bhat is the ultimate comfort food in Nepal. It’s a wholesome meal of lentil soup (dal) and steamed rice (bhat), often served with veggies, pickles, and sometimes meat.
It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug.
Ingredients:
- For the dal: 1 cup lentils, 1 onion, 2 tomatoes, 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste, 1 tsp turmeric, 1 tsp cumin, salt.
- For the rice: 2 cups basmati rice, water.
- Optional sides: sautéed spinach, fried potatoes, or chicken curry.
How to make it: Boil lentils with turmeric and salt. Sauté onions, tomatoes, and spices, then mix with the lentils. Cook rice separately. Serve together with your choice of sides.
Why this made it to our list: Dal Bhat is the backbone of Nepali cuisine. It’s nutritious, filling, and a true representation of Nepali culture.
3. Sel Roti The Sweet, Crunchy Donut
Sel Roti is a traditional Nepali rice donut that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
It’s slightly sweet and often enjoyed during festivals or as a snack with tea.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups rice flour, 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup milk, 1/4 cup ghee, 1/2 tsp cardamom powder, oil for frying.
How to make it: Mix rice flour, sugar, milk, ghee, and cardamom into a thick batter.
Heat oil and pour the batter in a circular motion to form donut shapes. Fry until golden brown.
Why we selected it: Sel Roti is a unique and delicious treat that’s hard to resist. It’s a perfect blend of sweet and savory, making it a crowd-pleaser.
4. Gundruk The Fermented Veggie Delight
Gundruk is a fermented leafy green vegetable dish that’s tangy, spicy, and full of flavor. It’s a traditional Nepali side dish that pairs perfectly with rice or roti.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fermented mustard greens or spinach, 1 onion, 2 green chilies, 1 tomato, 1 tsp turmeric, salt, oil.
How to make it: Sauté onions, chilies, and tomatoes. Add the fermented greens and spices. Cook for 10-15 minutes.
Why we chose it: Gundruk is a probiotic powerhouse and a unique flavor experience. It’s a must-try for anyone looking to explore authentic Nepali flavors.
5. Thukpa The Hearty Noodle Soup
Thukpa is a soul-warming noodle soup that’s perfect for chilly days. It’s loaded with veggies, meat, and a flavorful broth that’ll keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients:
- 200g noodles, 1 cup chicken or veggies, 1 onion, 2 garlic cloves, 1-inch ginger, 1 tomato, 1 tsp turmeric, 1 tsp chili powder, salt, oil.
How to make it: Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger. Add tomatoes, spices, and meat or veggies. Pour in water, add noodles, and simmer until cooked.
Why this made it to our list: Thukpa is comfort in a bowl. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for any time of the day.
6. Chatamari The Nepali Pizza
Chatamari is often called the Nepali pizza. It’s a rice flour crepe topped with minced meat, eggs, or veggies. It’s light, crispy, and incredibly tasty.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rice flour, 1/2 cup water, 1 egg, 1/2 cup minced chicken or veggies, 1 onion, 1 green chili, salt, oil.
How to make it: Make a thin batter with rice flour and water. Pour onto a hot pan, add toppings, and cook until crispy.
Why we selected it: Chatamari is a fun and versatile dish that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack. It’s a must-try for anyone who loves creative food.
7. Yomari The Sweet Dumpling
Yomari is a sweet dumpling made from rice flour and filled with molasses or sesame seeds. It’s a festive treat that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rice flour, 1/2 cup molasses or sesame paste, 1/2 cup water, a pinch of salt.
How to make it: Knead the dough, shape into cones, fill with molasses or sesame, and steam for 10 minutes.
Why we chose it: Yomari is a unique and delightful dessert that’s deeply rooted in Nepali culture. It’s a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.
8. Aloo Tama The Spicy Potato and Bamboo Shoot Curry
Aloo Tama is a tangy and spicy curry made with potatoes and bamboo shoots. It’s a flavor explosion that’s perfect with rice or roti.
Ingredients:
- 2 potatoes, 1 cup bamboo shoots, 1 onion, 2 tomatoes, 1 tsp turmeric, 1 tsp chili powder, salt, oil.
How to make it: Sauté onions, tomatoes, and spices. Add potatoes and bamboo shoots. Cook until tender.
Why this made it to our list: Aloo Tama is a bold and flavorful dish that’s a staple in Nepali households. It’s a must-try for curry lovers.
9. Sekuwa The Grilled Meat Delight
Sekuwa is a marinated and grilled meat dish that’s smoky, spicy, and utterly delicious. It’s often served as a snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
- 500g chicken or goat meat, 1 tbsp ginger-garlic paste, 1 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, salt, oil.
How to make it: Marinate meat with spices and grill until charred and cooked through.
Why we selected it: Sekuwa is a smoky, flavorful dish that’s perfect for meat lovers. It’s a must-try for anyone who loves grilled food.
10. Kwati The Mixed Bean Soup
Kwati is a nutritious soup made with nine different types of beans. It’s a traditional dish often enjoyed during festivals.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup mixed beans, 1 onion, 2 tomatoes, 1 tsp turmeric, 1 tsp cumin, salt, oil.
How to make it: Soak beans overnight. Sauté onions, tomatoes, and spices. Add beans and water, then simmer until tender.
Why we chose it: Kwati is a healthy and hearty dish that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. It’s a must-try for anyone looking for a wholesome meal.
11. Juju Dhau The King of Yogurt
Juju Dhau, or “King of Yogurt,” is a creamy, sweet yogurt that’s a specialty of Bhaktapur. It’s rich, indulgent, and utterly delicious.
Ingredients:
- 1 liter milk, 2 tbsp yogurt (as a starter), 2 tbsp sugar.
How to make it: Boil milk, let it cool slightly, add yogurt starter, and set in a warm place to ferment.
Why this made it to our list: Juju Dhau is a creamy, dreamy dessert that’s a must-try for anyone with a love for dairy.
Conclusion
Nepali cuisine is a treasure trove of flavors, textures, and traditions.
From the iconic momo to the creamy Juju Dhau, each dish tells a story and offers a unique taste experience.
So, what are you waiting for? Roll up your sleeves, grab your apron, and start cooking these amazing Nepali recipes.