Momos, a popular dumpling dish, originated in Tibet but has gained immense popularity across India and other parts of the world. These steamed delights are not only tasty but also a healthier snack option compared to many deep-fried alternatives. Packed with a variety of vegetables, these momos are full of nutrients and are perfect for anyone seeking a light yet satisfying snack.
If you’re looking for a wholesome snack that is both easy to prepare and nutritious, this vegetable momos recipe is just what you need. Follow this step-by-step guide to make your own vegetable momos at home!
Ingredients:
For the dough:
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour for a healthier alternative)
- ½ teaspoon of salt
- ½ tablespoon of oil
- Water (as needed to knead the dough)
For the filling:
- 1 cup finely chopped cabbage
- 1 small carrot, grated
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onions
- 1/2 cup finely chopped capsicum (green bell pepper)
- 1/4 cup boiled corn (optional)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped mushrooms (optional)
- 1 tablespoon ginger-garlic paste
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil or regular vegetable oil
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of chili sauce (optional for a spicy kick)
- 1 tablespoon of chopped coriander (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Add ½ tablespoon of oil and mix it well with the flour. This will help make the dough soft.
- Gradually add water little by little and knead the mixture into a smooth, firm dough. Make sure it’s not too soft or sticky.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and set it aside for about 20-30 minutes to rest. This will make it easier to roll out the dough later.
2. Prepare the Filling:
- Heat a pan or wok and add the sesame oil (or vegetable oil).
- Add the ginger-garlic paste and sauté it for a minute until fragrant.
- Add the onions, capsicum, cabbage, grated carrots, and boiled corn (and mushrooms if using). Stir-fry the vegetables on medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until they become soft but still retain some crunch.
- Add the soy sauce, chili sauce (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is well absorbed and the filling mixture is dry.
- Turn off the heat and let the filling cool down.
- Garnish the filling with chopped coriander for added flavor.
3. Shape the Momos:
- Once the dough has rested, divide it into small equal portions and roll each portion into a smooth ball.
- Roll each ball into a thin round disc, about 3-4 inches in diameter. Make sure the edges are thinner than the center.
- Place a spoonful of the prepared vegetable filling in the center of each disc.
- Fold the edges of the dough around the filling and pinch them together to form a pleated shape, sealing the momo tightly. You can shape the momos in a half-moon or round shape depending on your preference.
4. Steam the Momos:
- Grease a steamer plate or a steaming basket with a little oil to prevent the momos from sticking.
- Place the momos in the steamer, ensuring there’s enough space between them to expand while cooking.
- Steam the momos for about 10-12 minutes or until the dough becomes translucent and cooked through.
- If you’re using a regular pot to steam, make sure there’s enough water in the base and steam them over medium heat.
5. Serve:
- Serve the steamed vegetable momos hot with a side of chili garlic sauce or any dipping sauce of your choice.
Tips for Perfect Vegetable Momos:
- Customize the filling: You can use a variety of vegetables such as spinach, peas, or zucchini based on what’s available or your personal preference.
- For a healthier version: Replace all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour to make the dough more nutritious.
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of chili sauce, black pepper, or even add some green chilies to the filling if you prefer a spicy kick.
- Frozen Momos: If you have extra momos, you can freeze them after shaping. Steam them directly from the freezer when you’re ready to eat.
Health Benefits:
Vegetable momos are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, especially if you include a variety of vegetables. The steaming method makes them low in calories compared to fried snacks, and you can enjoy them without the guilt. They are a great option for vegetarians, people watching their calorie intake, or anyone looking for a wholesome, satisfying snack.
So, next time you want a healthy snack, skip the chips and deep-fried options, and opt for these nutritious and delicious vegetable momos instead!
