Chicken Momos Recipe – Delicious Steamed Chicken Dumplings
Momos are a popular snack in North East India, especially in Tibet, where they are enjoyed by locals and travelers alike. This recipe for Chicken Momos is a delightful take on the traditional Tibetan steamed dumplings, filled with a delicious mixture of minced chicken, green peas, and aromatic spices. These momos are soft, flavorful, and packed with protein, making them a perfect dish for a snack or a light meal. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process of preparing this irresistible treat!
Recipe Overview:
- Cuisine: North East India Recipes
- Course: Snack
- Diet: High Protein Non-Vegetarian
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All Purpose Flour (Maida) | 2 cups |
| Salt | To taste |
| Baking Powder | 1-1/2 teaspoons |
For the Filling:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken (boiled and minced) | 1 cup |
| Green Peas (Matar, boiled) | 1/2 cup |
| Onions (finely chopped) | 1/2 cup |
| Garlic (finely chopped) | 1 tablespoon |
| Ginger (finely chopped) | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Soy Sauce | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Fresh Red Chilies (or green chili) | 1 |
| Whole Black Peppercorns (crushed) | 1/4 tablespoon |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approx. 250 |
| Protein | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fats | 8g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 350mg |
Instructions:
Preparing the Dough:
- Make the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1-1/2 teaspoons of baking powder. Add salt to taste. Gradually add water to form a smooth, soft dough. Knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes until it is elastic and soft. Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 15-20 minutes to make it more pliable.
Preparing the Filling:
-
Prepare the Chicken: Boil the chicken in water until fully cooked, approximately 15-20 minutes. Once cooked, remove from the water, cool slightly, and then mince it finely using a knife or a food processor.
-
Boil the Green Peas: Boil 1/2 cup of green peas in water until tender, then drain and set aside.
-
Prepare the Aromatics: Finely chop 1 tablespoon of garlic and 1/2 tablespoon of ginger. Slice 1 fresh red chili (or green chili) into thin rounds.
-
Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the minced chicken, boiled green peas, 1/2 cup of finely chopped onions, garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. Add salt to taste and mix well. Finally, crush 1/4 tablespoon of whole black peppercorns and add them to the filling. Stir everything together to combine.
Assembling the Momos:
-
Roll the Dough: Once the dough has rested, divide it into small equal portions. Roll each portion into a smooth ball and then flatten it into a small disc (about 3 inches in diameter) using a rolling pin. Make sure to dust the surface with some flour to prevent sticking.
-
Stuff the Momos: Place a spoonful of the prepared filling in the center of each dough disc. Be careful not to overstuff. Pinch the edges of the dough together to form a pleated dumpling shape. You can shape them like small pouches or twist them at the top for a traditional momo look.
-
Steam the Momos: Grease a steaming tray or a plate with a little oil to prevent the momos from sticking. Arrange the momos in the tray, leaving some space between each momo. Bring water to a boil in a steamer and place the tray of momos inside. Steam for 20-25 minutes, or until the dough is cooked through and the momos are soft and tender.
Serving:
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the momos from the steamer and let them cool slightly. Serve hot with a side of spicy tomato chutney, garlic dip, or a tangy soy sauce dip. These steamed chicken momos are best enjoyed fresh and warm.
Tips and Variations:
- Add More Vegetables: Feel free to experiment with the filling by adding vegetables like cabbage, carrots, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
- Dough Variations: For a healthier version, you can substitute part of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour.
- Momo Shape: If you prefer, you can shape the momos into round buns rather than traditional pleated dumplings.
- Spice It Up: Adjust the level of spiciness by adding more chilies or experimenting with chili paste in the filling.
Conclusion:
This Chicken Momos Recipe is an excellent choice for anyone who loves steamed dumplings with a delicious, flavorful filling. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking for a snack that is high in protein and easy to prepare, these momos are sure to be a hit. The soft, delicate dough combined with the savory chicken and aromatic spices makes each bite a satisfying experience. Make sure to enjoy them hot with your favorite dipping sauce!
Enjoy this tasty treat from North East India and Tibet right in your own kitchen!
