Modern conveniences like the microwave make steaming momos a breeze. These traditional dumplings of Tibet and Nepal are stuffed with a mixture of vegetables or meat and wrapped in a tender flour-based dough. Make this sumptuous street food favorite at home in less time by finishing momos in the microwave with the help of a microwave steamer.
Momo Basics
Momos are traditional dumplings filled with a mixture of vegetables such as carrots, cabbage, mushrooms and onions, as well as other meats such as chicken, buffalo and goat. Completed by steaming or frying to set the handmade dough, momos are typically served with dipping sauces such as hot chili sauce, tomato chutney or other spicy, salty and sweet sauces that pair well with the mild flavors of the momos. Serve momos piping hot upon completion.
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Making Momos
Momos begin by mixing flour and water together until a stiff dough is formed. After a 15-minute rest, the dough is ready to be divided and filled. Create a filling mixture using your favorite vegetables cut into a small dice or julienne and seasoned with soy sauce, sesame oil and salt. If using a meat mixture, cook it first before filling the dumplings.
Filling the Dumplings
Divide the dough into small, equal portions that are a little smaller than a ping pong ball. Roll each piece into a thin round and fill with a spoonful of the prepared filling. For more uniform wrappers, roll the dough rounds individually and use a cup or biscuit cutter to cut the dough into exact circle shapes about 2 to 3 inches in diameter. Once filled, pull the sides of the momo together to meet in the center top of the dumping, a necessary step that gives momos their unique look. Pinch the edges together so that they are sealed and hold together.
Steaming Momos
Steam the momos in your microwave to finish them. While a typical microwave steamer will work, a microwave idli maker also doubles perfectly for steaming momos. Place the momos in a lightly oiled microwave steamer, allowing space between them to prevent touching and sticking. Fill the steamer with water as directed in your steamer's instructions and steam the momos for three minutes in your microwave. Take caution when removing the cover of the steamer, as the steam escaping can cause burns.
