Top 10 Must-Try Nepalese Cuisines

Nepali cuisine is a true reflection of the country's diversity. It's a blend of different spices and flavors from across the country that has become famous worldwide. Whether it's Daal (Lentil Soup), Bhat (Rice), Momos (Dumplings), or Aalu Taama (Bamboo shoot curry with potatoes), Nepalese cuisine promises an unforgettable culinary experience.

As Nepal gains global recognition, its cuisine is also gaining popularity and becoming a celebrated part of the global food scene. Nepalese cuisine is known for its unique taste and the use of locally sourced ingredients, which adds an extra layer of authenticity and flavor.

If you're looking for a culinary adventure, you must try Nepalese cuisine. Here are the top 10 dishes that you should not miss out on while in Nepal. The blend of spices, flavors, and textures will leave you wanting more:

Dal Bhat- The typical Nepali Staple Foods

Dal Bhat is a traditional and widely popular Nepalese staple food that has been enjoyed for many years. It is a meal that consists of two main components: Steamed Rice and cooked Lentils Soup or other pulse stew called Dal. The preparation of Dal Bhat varies according to region and family preference. Some household prefers using spilled mung beans while others may use yellow split peas instead of lentils, while some may use different herbs and spices.

Dal Bhat is usually accompanied by a mix of seasonal Vegetable Curries such as potato, cauliflower, carrot, and Green Beans, among others. It is also served with a side of Pickles (Achaar), which adds an acidic taste to the meal. Meat (Chicken, Mutton, or Fish) can be added to increase the taste.

For Nepalese, Dal Bhat is not just a staple food but also a comfort food that is easier to prepare as well as very filling. This traditional Nepalese meal is considered a complete meal which also has a lot of health benefits. It is rich in carbohydrates, protein, fiber, and other vitamins, which makes Dal Bhat a balanced diet- that is if taken in a balanced proportion. When provided with vegetables and meat the meal becomes well-maintained and nutritious to enjoy any time of the day.

Momos- The beloved Nepalese Dumplings

Momos are a traditional Nepalese Dish that has become very popular in recent years. They are a type of dumpling made by stuffing and steaming dough filled with either vegetables or minced meat. The dough is made by mixing flour, water, and salt, and the filling can be of your preference.

The traditional momo fillings are minced buff or chicken, grated vegetables such as cabbage, carrots, and onions, or grated paneer. The fillings are seasoned with a blend of spices, which gives the momo their distinct taste.

Momos are usually served with a special sauce called “Achaar” which is a mixture of herbs and spices sourced locally. It is often used to enhance the taste of the momo. Another way of cooking these Momos is to steam and drop them in a broth made using tomatoes, Sesame Seeds, Chilies, cumin, and coriander. This type of momo is also known as “Jhol Momo”. The dumpling culture in Nepal nowadays is pretty much everywhere. You can find a dumpling shop on every corner of every street.

Momos are a staple of Nepalese Cuisines and their popularity keeps growing, making them a beloved part of the Nepali culture. They are a must-have Nepalese cuisine to all our International Guests.

Newari Cuisines- The heart of Kathmandu’s culinary scene

Newari cuisine is a rich and diverse culinary tradition that originated from the Newari people from Kathmandu. It has a wide range of dishes and cuisines which includes vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Different spices, herbs, and ingredients make the dishes savory and aromatic.

Some of the traditional Newari dishes that are a must-try include Yomari, which is a sweet rice cake filled with molasses and sesame seeds. Another one is Samaya Baji, which is a platter of beaten rice, buffalo meat, and assortments of pickles and chutney. Bara is another traditional dish that is made of black lentils and is fried until crispy.
The Newari dishes are widely popular among Newari people as well as people outside of the Newari community as well. These dishes lie in the heart of Kathmandu’s Culinary Scene, thus many restaurants include Newari dishes in their menu.

Thukpa- Warm flavors from the Himalayas

Thukpa is a popular Tibetan cuisine that has gained widespread appreciation in Nepal. This dish contains seasonal vegetables. They are then mixed with homemade noodles made from wheat flour, and it is seasoned with different spices found locally.

Thukpa, also known as Himalayan Noodle Soup, is packed with protein with vegetarian ingredients such as beans, chickpeas, gram, kidney beans, etc. However, there are non-vegetarian options available as well such as chicken, buff, egg, and pork.

Sel Roti- a Nepalese festive delight

Sel roti is a beloved traditional Nepali sweet delicacy that has been a part of Nepalese culture for generations. This dish is typically prepared during the festivals of Dashain and Tihar. It’s also enjoyed at weddings, parties, and other celebrations.

Making Sel roti involves creating a batter from rice flour, water, sugar, ghee, and spices. The mixture is then brewed for several hours to enhance its flavor and texture. The dough is then shaped into rings and carefully deep-fried in cooking oil until golden brown. As a result, it will be a crispy, sweet, and aromatic ring-shaped delicacy that is hard to resist.

Sel roti is an essential part of Nepalese culture and is often served with tea. Its taste and unique texture have made it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. It is a must-try if you ever get the chance to experience Nepalese cuisine.

Aloo Tama- A unique taste of Nepal

Aloo Tama is a unique and delectable Nepali dish that every food enthusiast has to try. This dish simply translates to “Potato Bamboo Shoot”, which are the two key ingredients. It is a delicious dish from Nepal that uses sour bamboo shoots and potatoes mixed with beans and different spices that are locally available.

The unique combination of these ingredients results in flavorful and satisfying cuisine that is a staple in most Nepali households. The preparation of Aloo Tama varies according to region with each of them adding their twist to the recipe.

Gundruk- The fermented delight

Gundruk is a traditional fermented green vegetable that originated in Nepal. It is obtained by the fermentation of leafy vegetables or Saag in Nepali. These greens are collected and then sun-dried for a few hours before chopping them into small pieces and packed tightly into containers. Water is added to the containers, and they are left in a warm place for several days for the fermentation to start. It is an appetizer as well as served with the main dish. It has a tangy and sour taste with a unique feel that adds depth to any meal.   

The health benefits of Gundruk are it is rich in vitamin C, which aids in battling against colds, flu, and inflammation. It is also beneficial for your gut health as this dish is fermented. It helps the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut improves digestion and supports immunity.

Yomari- The sweet taste of Newari culture & tradition

Yomari is a sweet delicacy popular among the Newari community in Nepal. This Newari delicacy is mostly eaten during the festival of Yomari Punhi, which falls on the full moon day of the month of Poush in the Nepali calendar.

It is also known as Ya-Mari (Ya meaning like and Mari meaning delicacy). Yomari is a steamed dumpling with the filling of sweet ingredient “Chaku” (Made from jaggery or molasses or palm sugar) or Khuwa (Thickened or dried out milk). It is found in most Newari restaurants and is taken as a dessert.

Once the Yomari is prepared, it is steamed and served hot. This Traditional Newari Sweet is also prepared on birthdays and baby showers in Nepal. It is said that eating Yomari brings you good luck and is considered an auspicious food.

Nepali Chiya- More than just a Tea

Nepali tea or Nepalese Chiya is an integral and enjoyed part of Nepali tradition and culture. The aroma of the tea leaves will fill up an entire household in the nation each morning, providing comfort, familiarity, and warmth. You’ll find that the mountain terrain of the country, with different altitudes, provides a perfect growth for the tea leaves.

The tea culture in Nepal is very popular among Nepalese and foreigners alike. It has become a common drink for any kind of social gatherings and festivals, with different teas prepared for different occasions. The tea culture in Nepal is very popular among Nepalese and foreigners alike.

Raksi- Nepal’s indigenous spirit

Raksi, also known as Traditional Nepalese Liquor, is a type of alcoholic beverage made by distillation of fermented ingredients such as rice, grains, and millet. Apart from casual drinking, Raksi also has a cultural significance and is consumed on different occasions, festivals, religious ceremonies, and social gatherings.

This liquor is usually homemade and prepared by traditional methods. This process involves fermenting the ingredients for a few days, then distilling the mixture in a copper still.

While its preparation is not yet commercial in Nepal, it is sold in restaurants that serve Newari cuisine. Tourists can buy them in traditional liquor stores in some parts of the country. CNN has recognized it as being one of the "50 most delicious drinks in the world". This has helped to raise the profile for this traditional drink and has increased popularity amongst tourists in Nepal.

Conclusion

Food always has been a significant part of any gathering, bringing people together and connecting cultures. Nepalese cuisine is incredibly diverse and one-of-a-kind, making it a top destination for food lovers from around the world.

Nepalese cuisine has a rich culinary heritage from various geographical and ethnic backgrounds, which offers many unique tastes and textures. Food plays a significant role in travel and can offer a memorable experience, and Nepalese food is no exception. With a rich culinary heritage that draws from various geographical and ethnic backgrounds, Nepalese cuisine offers unique flavors and textures.

With over a hundred ethnic communities, each with its own food culture deeply rooted, Nepal is a culinary heaven catering to everyone. Whether you're indulging in homemade meals or dining out, Nepalese cuisine never fails to enchant and delight.