Steamed vegetable momos are delectable Northeast Indian dumplings filled with a savory mix of finely chopped vegetables, wrapped in a thin dough, and steamed until tender. These delightful bites are bursting with flavors from garlic, ginger, and spices, making them a perfect appetizer or snack. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce for a delightful culinary experience.
Here’s a detailed recipe:
Dough Ingredients:
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour (maida)
- Water (as needed)
- A pinch of salt
Filling Ingredients:
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (cabbage, carrots, bell peppers, etc.), finely chopped
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon chili sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh coriander leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Dough Preparation:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt.
- Gradually add water and knead the mixture into a smooth, firm dough. Cover it with a damp cloth and set it aside for at least 30 minutes while you prepare the filling.
Filling Preparation:
- Prepare the Filling:
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic, ginger, and green chilies. Sauté for a minute until fragrant.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent.
- Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for a few minutes until they are slightly cooked but still crunchy.
- Add soy sauce, vinegar or lemon juice, chili sauce (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Cook for a couple more minutes until the vegetables are cooked yet firm.
- Remove from heat and let the filling cool down.
Assembling the Momos:
- Prepare the Momos:
- Divide the dough into small lemon-sized balls.
- Roll out each ball into a thin, round disc, around 3-4 inches in diameter.
- Place a spoonful of the cooled vegetable filling in the center of each disc.
- Wrapping the Momos:
- Begin pleating and folding the edges of the disc to form pleats and encase the filling. Pinch and twist the pleats together at the top to seal the momo.
- Repeat the process for all the dough balls and filling.
Steaming the Momos:
- Steam the Momos:
- Prepare a steamer by greasing the steamer tray or lining it with parchment paper.
- Place the momos in the steamer tray, leaving some space between them to prevent sticking.
- Steam the momos for about 10-12 minutes on medium-high heat until the dough becomes translucent and the filling is cooked.
- Serve:
- Once done, remove the momos from the steamer.
- Garnish with chopped coriander leaves (if desired) and serve hot with a dipping sauce like tomato-based chutney or soy-vinegar dipping sauce.
Enjoy these delicious and healthy steamed vegetable momos as a delightful snack or light meal! Adjust the spice levels and fillings according to your taste preferences.
