Momo (Nepalese Beef Dumplings)

By
Staff
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Momo (Nepalese Beef Dumplings)

Makes about 40 small dumplings

Rajan Chemjong: “This is a very well-known fast food in my home country, Nepal, where it’s enjoyed at family gatherings and festivals. There are many different styles and fillings, but they’re simple and easy to make if you know what you’re doing. Typically, you serve with very spicy pickle or ‘Achar’ made with red chili, tomatoes, sesame seeds and salt. I’m a huge foodie, and Momo always brings me one step closer to home. When I first came to Cayman, I tried finding a decent place for Momo but couldn’t find anywhere. But, hey, where there’s will there’s a way, so I prepare for myself.” Following five years in the Nepalese Army, Rajan moved to the Cayman Islands in 2014 and currently works as a security officer at the Security Centre.For the dough:

  • 3 cups all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cups water
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

For the filling:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 2 bunches scallions, finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon grated garlic
  • 1 tablespoon grated ginger
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 2 teaspoons oil
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
  • ¼ teaspoon chili powder

Combine the dough ingredients. Knead until smooth and flexible, cover and rest for 45 minutes. Divide into small balls, taking a teaspoon of mixture at a time. Sprinkle the surface and dough balls with flour to prevent sticking. Roll into flat disks of about 4 inches in diameter.

Mix the filling ingredients together in a large bowl. Put a teaspoon of the mixture in the middle of the dough disk. Gather the disk edges by pinching with your right thumb and index finger, and pinch together to make a purse shape.

Place in a well-greased steamer for 15 minutes, until soft and tender.

Serve immediately with your choice of chutney or chili sauce.