A Delicious Homemade Treat

Momos, the quintessential street food originating from the Himalayan region, have captured the hearts and palates of food lovers across India. These soft, doughy dumplings filled with savoury goodness come in countless variations, but Chicken Momos stand out as a favourite among non-vegetarians. Their juicy, flavour-packed filling and the accompanying spicy chutney make them an irresistible snack or appetiser.

This article provides a detailed, step-by-step guide to preparing chicken momos at home. From making the dough to crafting the filling and perfecting the spicy chutney, you’ll be guided through the entire process. Let’s dive into the world of homemade chicken momos and enjoy the satisfaction of creating this street-food staple in your own kitchen.

Ingredients for Chicken Momos

For the Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (maida)
• A pinch of salt
• ½ cup water (adjust as needed)
• 1 teaspoon oil (optional, for smoother dough)

For the Chicken Filling:

• 250 grams minced chicken (ensure it’s finely minced)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 small carrot, grated (optional, for added texture)
• 1 green chilli, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• ½ teaspoon black pepper powder
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for extra flavour)
• 2 tablespoons chopped spring onion greens
• Salt to taste

For the Spicy Momos Chutney:

• 4-5 dried red chillies
• 2 medium-sized tomatoes, roughly chopped
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1 tablespoon vinegar
• ½ teaspoon sugar
• Salt to taste

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Prepare the Dough

The dough for momos needs to be soft, pliable, and easy to shape.

1. In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt.
2. Gradually add water while kneading the mixture into a smooth dough. Avoid adding too much water at once.
3. Knead for 5-7 minutes until the dough is soft and elastic.
4. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 20-30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Chicken Filling

The filling is the heart of any momo, and for chicken momos, it’s important to ensure it’s flavourful and juicy.

1. In a bowl, combine the minced chicken, chopped onion, grated carrot, minced garlic, and grated ginger.
2. Add chopped green chilli, soy sauce, black pepper powder, sesame oil (if using), spring onion greens, and salt.
3. Mix thoroughly using your hands or a spoon to ensure the flavours are evenly distributed.
4. Cover and refrigerate the filling until ready to use. This helps the ingredients marinate and enhances the taste.

3. Make the Momos Chutney

No plate of momos is complete without a spicy, tangy chutney on the side.

1. Soak the dried red chillies in warm water for about 10 minutes to soften them.
2. Boil the chopped tomatoes until they turn soft and mushy. Let them cool slightly.
3. Blend the soaked red chillies, boiled tomatoes, garlic, vinegar, sugar, and salt into a smooth paste. Add a little water if the chutney is too thick.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

4. Assemble the Momos

Shaping momos can be a creative and fun activity. Here’s how to do it:

1. Divide the rested dough into small, equal-sized balls (about the size of a marble).
2. Roll each ball into a thin, circular sheet, roughly 3 inches in diameter. Make sure the edges are thinner than the centre.
3. Place a spoonful of the chicken filling in the centre of the sheet.
4. Fold the edges over the filling and pleat them to form a crescent, half-moon, or round shape. Ensure the momos are sealed tightly to prevent them from opening during steaming.

5. Steam the Momos

Steaming is the traditional cooking method that ensures the momos remain moist and tender.

1. Grease a steamer plate or line it with cabbage leaves to prevent sticking.
2. Arrange the momos on the plate, ensuring they are spaced apart.
3. Steam the momos for about 12-15 minutes. The momos are ready when the outer covering turns slightly translucent and the chicken filling is fully cooked.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the steaming hot chicken momos with the spicy momos chutney. For an added touch, drizzle some melted butter or sesame oil on the momos before serving.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Momos

1. Minced Chicken: Use finely minced chicken for a smooth and evenly cooked filling. You can also mince chicken at home using a food processor.
2. Avoid Overfilling: Place just enough filling in the wrapper to seal it comfortably without tearing the dough.
3. Sealing the Momos: Ensure the momos are sealed properly to avoid the filling spilling out during steaming.
4. Steaming Time: Do not over-steam, as it can make the dough rubbery. The momos are done when the wrapper becomes slightly translucent.
5. Customising the Filling: You can add finely chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or even herbs like parsley for added flavour and texture.

Variations to Try

Chicken momos are versatile and can be adapted to suit different preferences:

1. Tandoori Chicken Momos: Coat the steamed momos in a spiced yogurt marinade and grill or bake them until lightly charred.
2. Fried Chicken Momos: Deep-fry the steamed momos for a crispy exterior and soft filling.
3. Soup Momos: Add the steamed momos to a light chicken broth for a comforting and wholesome dish.
4. Cheese Chicken Momos: Add grated cheese to the filling for a creamy and indulgent twist.

Health Benefits of Chicken Momos

While momos are a comfort food, they can also be nutritious when prepared with care:

1. High in Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health.
2. Low in Fat: Steamed momos are a healthier option compared to fried snacks.
3. Customisable Nutritional Content: You can add vegetables like carrots, cabbage, or mushrooms to increase the fibre and nutrient content.

Conclusion

Chicken momos are a perfect blend of flavour, texture, and aroma, making them an irresistible dish for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to satisfy a snack craving or impress your guests at a gathering, these dumplings are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Pair them with the spicy chutney for a burst of flavours that will leave you wanting more.

With this easy-to-follow recipe, you can recreate the magic of street-style chicken momos in your own kitchen. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on this culinary journey. Once you try these homemade chicken momos, they’ll become a staple in your recipe collection!

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