Classic Nepali Momo Recipe – How to Make Momo at Home

What Are Momo?

Momo are steamed dumplings that are one of Nepal's most beloved dishes. Whether filled with spiced chicken or vegetables, they're served with a fiery achar (chutney) and are perfect as a snack, starter, or main meal. This guide walks you through making authentic Nepali momo from scratch — or a quick shortcut using ready-made ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Dough

For the Filling (Chicken)

  • 500g minced chicken (or use Chicken Momo – 900g (Frozen) for a ready-made shortcut)
  • 1 tbsp Momo Masala
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh coriander, chopped

For the Filling (Vegetarian)

For the Skin (if making from scratch)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Dough

Mix flour and a pinch of salt. Gradually add water and knead into a smooth, firm dough. Cover and rest for 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Filling

Combine minced chicken with Momo Masala, onion, garlic, ginger, coriander, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

3. Shape the Momo

Roll the dough into thin circles (or use ready-made momo skins). Place a spoonful of filling in the centre. Fold and pleat the edges to seal — the classic half-moon or round shape both work.

4. Steam

Place momo in a steamer lined with baking paper. Steam for 12–15 minutes until the skin is translucent and the filling is cooked through. A dedicated Momo Pot makes this easy and authentic.

5. Serve with Achar

Serve hot with Instant Momo Achar for the classic tangy-spicy dipping sauce, or go all out with Instant Jhol Momo Mix for the popular soupy jhol momo style.

Tips for Perfect Momo

  • Don't overfill — a teaspoon of filling per momo is enough.
  • Keep the dough covered while you work to prevent it drying out.
  • Frozen momo (chicken or veg) can go straight into the steamer — no thawing needed.
  • Leftover momo can be pan-fried the next day for crispy kothey momo.

Shop the Ingredients

Everything you need is available at Nepsto — from momo flour and momo masala to frozen chicken momo and ready-made achar. Delivered to your door in Denmark.