Chilli Paneer Momo Recipe
Indo-Chinese Appetizer | Vegetarian | Serves 4-6
Chilli Paneer Momos combine the irresistible flavors of Indo-Chinese cuisine in a delightful, bite-sized package. These soft, steamed dumplings are filled with a flavorful stuffing of paneer, bell peppers, spring onions, and an array of savory sauces, making them a perfect appetizer for any occasion. The balance of spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors will tantalize your taste buds, and the homemade dough adds a comforting touch to the dish. Serve them with a dipping sauce of your choice for a truly mouthwatering experience!
Ingredients
For the Momo Dough:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| All Purpose Flour (Maida) | 1 cup |
| Water | To knead |
For the Chilli Paneer Filling:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Paneer (Homemade Cottage Cheese), finely chopped | 250 grams |
| Green Bell Pepper (Capsicum), finely minced | 1/4 cup |
| Spring Onion (Bulb & Greens), finely minced | 1/4 cup |
| Garlic, finely minced | 1 teaspoon |
| Ginger, finely minced | 2 teaspoons |
| Green Chillies, finely minced | 2 |
| Soy sauce | 1/2 tablespoon |
| Tomato Ketchup | 1 tablespoon |
| Sweet and Spicy Red Chilli Sauce (Tomato Chilli Sauce) | 1 tablespoon |
| Oil | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Instructions
1. Prepare the Momo Dough:
To begin, prepare the dough for the momos. In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour with a pinch of salt. Gradually add water in small amounts, kneading the mixture into a smooth and soft dough. Once the dough is formed, cover it with a damp cloth and let it rest while you prepare the filling.
2. Make the Chilli Paneer Filling:
Start by heating 1 teaspoon of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, ginger, and green chillies to the pan and sauté for a minute, or until fragrant. Then, add the finely chopped spring onions and capsicum (green bell pepper) to the pan, and sauté them for another 2 minutes until they become tender but still retain their crunch.
3. Add the Paneer and Sauces:
Next, add the chopped paneer to the pan and mix well. Pour in the soy sauce, tomato ketchup, and sweet and spicy red chilli sauce (tomato chilli sauce). Stir the mixture thoroughly so that the paneer and vegetables are evenly coated with the sauces. Season with salt to taste. Cook the mixture for 3-4 minutes until the flavors meld together, then remove the pan from the heat and let the filling cool down slightly.
4. Shape the Momos:
Once the dough has rested, divide it into small balls. Roll each ball into a thin, round disc on a floured surface. Make sure the edges are thinner than the center, so it is easy to fold the momo. Place a spoonful of the chilli paneer filling in the center of each disc. Carefully fold the edges to seal the filling inside, pinching the edges together to form a pleated pattern or simply fold into a half-moon shape. Repeat this process with the remaining dough and filling.
5. Steam the Momos:
Prepare your steamer by bringing water to a boil. Grease the steamer tray with a little oil to prevent the momos from sticking. Place the filled momos on the tray, making sure they do not touch each other. Steam the momos over medium heat for 10-12 minutes, or until they become soft and the dough is cooked through.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the momos are steamed to perfection, remove them from the steamer and serve immediately. These delicious Chilli Paneer Momos pair wonderfully with a tangy dipping sauce or a spicy chutney of your choice.
Tips for Perfect Chilli Paneer Momos:
- Dough Consistency: The dough should be soft and elastic, but not sticky. If it becomes too sticky, add a little more flour.
- Filling Variations: You can adjust the spiciness of the filling by adding more or fewer green chillies or adjusting the amount of chilli sauce.
- Steaming: Be sure not to overcrowd the steamer. Steam in batches if necessary.
- Vegan Option: Substitute the paneer with tofu for a vegan-friendly version of this recipe.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Protein | 8 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 30 grams |
| Fiber | 2 grams |
| Fat | 8 grams |
| Sodium | 340 mg |
These Chilli Paneer Momos are a perfect fusion of flavors, making them a crowd-pleasing appetizer for any gathering. With their soft, steamy exterior and spicy, savory filling, these momos bring a taste of Indo-Chinese cuisine right to your table. Perfect for family dinners, parties, or a cozy snack, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone who tries them. Enjoy!
