Jhol Momo is a popular Nepali variation of the traditional Tibetan dumpling dish called momo. While momos are typically steamed or fried and served with a dipping sauce, Jhol Momo features momos served in a flavorful and spicy soup or broth. It’s a comforting and satisfying dish, especially during colder weather. Here’s a basic recipe to make Jhol Momo:
Ingredients:
For the momo filling:
- 250g ground meat (chicken or lamb)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped (adjust according to spice preference)
- 2 tablespoons fresh coriander leaves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- Salt to taste
For the momo wrappers:
- Store-bought dumpling wrappers or homemade dough
For the soup (jhol):
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tomatoes, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder (adjust according to spice preference)
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the momo filling by mixing together ground meat, chopped onion, minced garlic, minced ginger, chopped green chilies, chopped coriander leaves, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt in a bowl. Mix well until all the ingredients are combined. Cover and refrigerate the filling while you prepare the wrappers and soup.
- Prepare the momo wrappers using store-bought dumpling wrappers or homemade dough. Roll out the dough into thin circles and cut into small rounds using a cookie cutter or a round mold.
- Place a small spoonful of the prepared filling in the center of each wrapper. Fold the wrapper over the filling and pinch the edges together to seal, forming a pleated pattern if desired. Repeat with the remaining filling and wrappers.
- In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and minced ginger. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add chopped tomatoes to the pot and cook until they soften.
- Stir in cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook for a minute until the spices are fragrant.
- Pour in chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
- Carefully add the stuffed momos into the simmering broth. Cover and cook for about 10-15 minutes until the momos are cooked through and the filling is cooked.
- Garnish the Jhol Momo with fresh coriander leaves and serve hot.
Enjoy your delicious and comforting Jhol Momo, a delightful Nepali dumpling soup that’s bursting with flavors! Adjust the spice levels according to your preference and serve with extra chili sauce or a squeeze of lime for added zing.
