Whenever you hear the word Nepal, the image of Gautama Buddha or Mt. Everest is the thing that probably pops into your mind. Most people do and for good reason. The founder of Buddhism was born in Nepal and parts of Mt. Everest straddle it.
However, there is another thing that this Asian country should be known for — food.
Nepalese cuisine is among the best in the world, and like most Asian cuisines, it is very distinct from Western foods. Are you curious yet? Here are some of the Nepalese dishes you have to try.
Dal Bhat
If you manage to make your way to Nepal, ask any local which food you should try first, and all of them would probably suggest dal bhat. Dal bhat is a staple in every Nepali household, and you should not leave the country without trying it.
Dal bhat is mostly rice served with lentil soup, vegetables, and chicken or meat curry. It is a well-rounded meal that can meet all your nutritional needs as well as your gastronomic cravings.
Sel Roti
Sel roti is a very popular snack in Nepal, commonly sold in roadside food stalls and often served during festivals like Maghe Sankranti, Dashain, and Tihar.
It is a circular bread made from rice flour, deep-fried until it is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It looks like a cross between a doughnut and a bagel but is much less sweet.
Momos
Momos are sometimes called Tibetan dumplings, but they are a favourite among Nepalis, including those who are not of Tibetan origin.
Momos are made from a mixture of minced buffalo or chicken and finely chopped vegetables enveloped by rice paper wrappers. They can be steamed, fried, or added to the soup.
Newari Khaja
Newari Khaja is ethnic food. It was created by the Newari people but spread throughout the country over time.
This Nepalese dish has many ingredients, including beaten rice, chhoyela, achar, soybeans, eggs, Aalu Tama, bara, and rice beer.
While its popularity is massive all over Nepal, the most delicious Newari Khaja are served in Kathmandu, where several Newari food restaurants operate.
Gundruk
Gundruk is another popular Nepalese dish. It is made by fermenting green leafy vegetables. Most Nepalese households also make it into a pickle known locally as gundruk ko achar. It has a slight mushroomy taste and is a bit salty, making it a great complement for curries or any dal bhat meal.
Yomari
Yomari is another offering from the Newari community. It is a traditional dish consisting of dough made from rice flour, filled with a thick paste of chaaku, then steamed.
A great choice if you have a sweet tooth.
Chiura
Chiura is made from rice that has been beaten until the grains are flat then dried to maintain freshness. It is often eaten with very wet curries or yoghurt to make up for its dryness. Farmers also pair it with tea as a mid-morning snack. Chiura is a bit of an acquired taste, but it swells up when eaten and can be very filling.
Pani Puri
Pani puri started as popular Nepalese street food, but it has made its way to popular restaurants. It is made from mashed potato with onion, chilli, and other spices, including tamarind or mint.
Fancy trying something different for tea? Head to our website or use our app to order a Nepalese takeaway today!
