Momos—those soft, delicate, flavor-packed dumplings—are among the most beloved street foods across Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan, and the northern parts of India.
Making momos at home may seem time-consuming, but the process is surprisingly simple once you master the dough, the filling, and the shaping technique.
This detailed recipe walks you step-by-step through creating restaurant-quality momos right in your kitchen.
Momos Recipe
Momos are small, bite-sized dumplings filled with vegetables, meat, or paneer, wrapped in a thin dough sheet and usually steamed until soft and glossy.
The filling is seasoned with aromatics like ginger, garlic, and spring onions, giving every bite a delicious punch of flavor.
Homemade momos allow you to customize the fillings, adjust spices, and enjoy fresh, steaming hot dumplings anytime.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (maida)
- 1–2 tbsp oil
- ½ tsp salt
- Water, as needed to knead
For the Vegetable Filling
- 1 cup finely shredded cabbage
- ½ cup grated carrot
- ½ cup finely chopped capsicum
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2–3 spring onions, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp minced ginger
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp salt (adjust as needed)
- 1 tbsp oil
(For chicken momos, replace the vegetable filling with 250 g minced chicken + the same seasonings.)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Dough
Start by combining the flour and salt in a large bowl. Add a tablespoon of oil, then gradually pour in water while kneading.
You want to achieve a firm yet smooth dough—neither sticky nor too tight.
Knead for at least 8–10 minutes to develop elasticity. This helps the wrapper become thin without tearing. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and rest it for 20–30 minutes.
2. Preparing the Filling
Heat oil in a pan and add minced ginger and garlic. Sauté until fragrant. Add the chopped onions and spring onions; cook until they turn slightly translucent.
Now mix in the cabbage, carrot, and capsicum. Stir-fry on high heat for just 2–3 minutes—you want the vegetables to stay crunchy, not mushy.
Season with soy sauce, black pepper, and salt. Mix well and let the mixture cool completely before using it for stuffing.
(If using chicken, cook the minced chicken with the aromatics until fully done, then add sauces and seasonings.)
3. Rolling the Dough
After resting, divide the dough into small balls, about the size of a lime. Dust each ball lightly with flour and roll into thin circular discs about 3–4 inches in diameter.
Make sure the center stays slightly thicker than the edges so the momo doesn’t tear while shaping or steaming.
4. Stuffing and Shaping the Momos
Place 1–2 teaspoons of filling at the center of each rolled wrapper. Pinch one edge and create pleats while turning the wrapper in a circular motion, gathering it into a pouch shape.
Seal the top tightly. If you’re a beginner, you can also fold them into half-moon shapes—simple and beautiful.
Keep the shaped momos covered with a cloth to prevent them from drying out.
5. Steaming the Momos
Prepare a steamer by brushing the base plate with a little oil so the momos don’t stick.
Arrange the dumplings with some space between them. Steam on medium heat for 10–12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the wrapper turns glossy and slightly transparent.
Do not over-steam, or the wrapper may become too chewy.
Different Variations of Momos
1. Chicken Momos
Juicy minced chicken mixed with garlic, ginger, spring onions, and pepper. This is the most popular non-veg variation.
2. Paneer Momos
Made with crumbled paneer, shredded vegetables, and mild seasonings. Soft, creamy, and delicious.
3. Fried Momos
The shaped dumplings are deep-fried until crisp and golden. Best served with spicy chili garlic chutney.
4. Kothey Momos (Pan-Fried Momos)
First pan-seared for a crispy bottom and then steamed. A perfect balance of crisp and soft textures.
5. Tandoori Momos
Steamed momos are coated in a yogurt-tandoori marinade and then grilled to smoky perfection.
6. Cheese Momos
A favorite among kids, filled with melting cheese and mild spices, usually served with creamy dips.
Conclusion
Momos are a wonderful blend of soft dough, juicy filling, and aromatic seasonings—making them a comforting dish that works for snacks, dinner, or parties.
With a little practice, making momos at home becomes simple and enjoyable.
Serve hot with classic red chili momo chutney and enjoy the flavors of the Himalayas right from your kitchen!