Nepal is a country lying in the Himalayas, very well-renowned for its extraordinary landscapes and rich culture; in fact, more importantly, its admirable feature is definitely its diverse and palatable cuisine.
Among the myriad culinary treasures that Nepal can boast about, momos stand paramount as one deeply loved staple. These bite-sized dumplings have transcended their origins to gain popularity across the world, including in Canada, where they have become a favorite among gastronomes.
In this blog, we will take you on a culinary tour of finding their distinctive charm of Nepali momos in Canada-searching for their origination, variations, and where to get them across the country.
Momos: Origins
Basically, momos are taken to emanate from Tibet and were transported to Nepal by Newari traders. Over time, these dumplings came to be an integral component of Nepali nourishment, having variances in every zone. Mainly, momos were filled with minced buffalo meat; however, nearly everywhere momos are known, the fillings have diversified into chicken and pork besides vegetables and even cheese.
The process of making momos is an art in itself: the dough is prepared with wheat flour, usually rolled into small circles, filled with savory stuffing, and folded expertly into different shapes before being steamed or fried. This sublimates into a delicate yet flavorful dumpling that is best savored with a side of tangy dipping sauce, known as achar.
Momos of Nepal
Momos in Nepal are more of a cultural phenomenon than some food item. These are consumed during festivals, family gatherings, and even in the form of street food. The preparation of momos is often a time when families come together, since every member contributes to rolling the dough, stuffing the dumpling, or giving it a shape. This further leads not only to a delicious meal but also strengthens the bond between family members.
Momos also constitute an important feature in the social scene of Nepal. As one walks along the streets of Kathmandu, almost each street corner has a momos stall serving as a favorite hangout joint for pals and colleagues. From having it as a quick bite on a busy day to enjoying it for leisure, momos seem to be one of the comfort foods Nepalese love.
Nepali Momos in Canada: A Taste from Home
Among the Nepali Diaspora in Canada, momos are a prized reminder of home. As more Nepalese immigrants came to Canada over time, the country saw a rise in Nepalese immigration, bringing with them their culinary traditions, not excluding the favorite momo. Today, from Toronto to Vancouver, Nepali momos can be found all over the place in Canada, delighting locals and immigrants alike with unique flavors.
One of the reasons momos have gained such unprecedented momentum in Canada is because of their variety. Name it-be it a meat lover, vegetarian, or vegan-there is a momo available to them all. The dumplings can be filled with any ingredient desired and hence are suitable for all types of eaters. Momos also come with various sauces ranging from mild to super spicy for diners to tailor-make their experience.
Different Varieties of Momos in Canada
With Nepali momos gaining their fame in Canada, many chefs started re-inventing or evolving them to adapt to different flavors and ways of cooking. Some popular variations you will see in Canada include the following:
Steamed Momos: This is the classic and most consumed version. Steamed momos are soft and juicy to let the flavors of the filling come alive. They are commonly served with Spicy Tomato-based sauce.
Fried Momos: These are for those who love a little crunch. Fried momos are the best, deep-fried to golden brown perfection that provides an outside crunch to the soft inner layer.
Jhol Momos: Originating from Kathmandu, these were dumplings that had been steamed to perfection and were served in some warm broth or soup. Normally, the broth contains a mix of spices, yogurt, and sesame seeds in the right amount and provides the right amount of thickness and tanginess to go with the momos.
Kothey Momos: These are momos that are half fried and half steamed. They combine into one delicious form two particular textures: those of fried and steamed momos. Kothey momos bring together the contrasts in texture: crispy on one side, soft on the other-best of both worlds.
Chili Momos: These are prepared with chili peppers, garlic, and a sauce made of soy sauce, a variant that is just perfect for those who love strong and spicy flavors.
Paneer Momos: These are famous amongst vegetarians. A filling of spiced cottage cheese is used in these dumplings, and when combined with the soft dough, it gives a flavorful and creamy texture.
Chocolate Momos : This is one of the modern innovations of momos, which happens to be sweet in nature. Filled with melted chocolate, it is generally served with chocolate sauce as drips. A sweet dessert for those who prefer a little something after mealtime.
Nepal Momos: Where to Find the Best Ones in Canada
If you need your Nepali momos fix, then you are in for a treat, as many restaurants and food trucks in Canada boast of authentic-and equally delicious-momos. Here’s where you need to go looking:
Little Nepal Cuisine, Regina: An authentic Nepali Restaurant serving a variety of momos in Regina, including steamed, fried, and kothey. Our original Nepali recipes along with Nepali hospitality make it the ultimate destination for momo lovers.
Balti Indian Restaurant, Whitby & Niagara Falls: Just as the name goes, Balti is an Indian Restaurant serving a number of Nepali food items as well in their restaurants at Whitby and Niagara Falls. More particularly, their jhol momos are super famous for having a burst of flavors in each bite.
Momo Ghar, Toronto: This place does traditional and fusion momos; therefore, a pretty long menu to meet everybody’s taste. Whether you crave traditional steamed momos or adventurous chocolate momos, Momo Ghar will have you covered.
Conclusion
From being the favorite mix-and-match of flavors and textures that such humble food could offer, momos have carved a niche for themselves in the Canadian’s heart. Be it a first try or a long-ago longing for momos, each variation is worth going on a food adventure for. For a lip-smacking delicacy, every other day, enter any of the momo joints popping up all over Canada, and taste the magic of Nepali momos yourself.