Introduction: A Foodie’s Guide to Nepal’s Street Food Scene
Nepal, a country situated between India and China, has a vibrant street food culture that foodies would love to explore. The street food scene in Nepal is diverse and includes a range of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. In this guide, we will highlight some of the must-try street food items that you should definitely try during your visit to Nepal.
Momo: Nepal’s Iconic Street Food Delight
Momo is undoubtedly the most popular and iconic street food in Nepal. A momo is a steamed or fried dumpling that is filled with either vegetables or meat. It is served with a spicy tomato-based sauce or a mild white sauce. You can find momos in almost every street corner of Nepal. They can be served as an appetizer or as a full meal. Some popular momo variations include buff (buffalo) momo, chicken momo, and vegetable momo.
Chatamari: A Savory Crepe from the Streets of Nepal
Chatamari is a savory crepe that is native to the Newari community in Nepal. It is made with rice flour and is topped with minced meat, vegetables, and eggs. The crepe is then baked in a hot tandoor oven. The end result is a thin, crispy crepe that is bursting with flavor. Chatamari is often served as a snack or as an appetizer in Nepal.
Sel Roti: A Sweet and Chewy Street Food Staple
Sel Roti is a sweet and chewy street food that is a staple in Nepal. It is made from a fermented rice batter that is poured into a ring-shaped mold and deep-fried until crispy and golden brown. Sel Roti is often served during festivals and special occasions, but you can also find it in street food stalls throughout Nepal. It is commonly eaten as a snack or as a breakfast item.
Chow Mein: A Nepalese Twist on a Chinese Classic
Chow Mein is a Chinese dish that has been adapted to suit Nepalese taste buds. Nepalese Chow Mein is a stir-fried noodle dish that is made with vegetables, meat, and a variety of spices. It is a popular street food item in Nepal and is often served with a side of spicy sauce. You can find Chow Mein in almost every street corner of Nepal.
Juju Dhau: Nepal’s Famous Sweet Yogurt Dish to End Your Street Food Journey
Juju Dhau is a famous sweet yogurt dish that is native to the city of Bhaktapur in Nepal. It is made by boiling milk and then adding a culture of bacteria to it. The mixture is then left to ferment for a few hours, resulting in a thick and creamy yogurt. Juju Dhau is often served in traditional clay pots and is garnished with dried fruits and nuts. It is a perfect dessert to end your street food journey in Nepal.
Conclusion
Nepal’s street food scene is diverse and delicious. From momos to Chatamari, Sel Roti, Chow Mein, and Juju Dhau, there are plenty of mouth-watering options to try. So, if you’re a foodie, make sure to include these must-try street food items in your itinerary when you visit Nepal.
