How to make Chicken Jhol Momo

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Momo Filling:

• 300g ground chicken (or finely chopped chicken breast)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced 

• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced

• 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro

• 1/2 cup cabbage, finely chopped (optional)

• 1 tablespoon soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• Salt to taste

For the Momo Dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• A pinch of salt

• Water (enough to form a smooth dough)

For the Chicken Jhol (Soup):

• 1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or sesame oil)

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced

• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced

• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped (or 1 cup tomato puree)

• 1-2 teaspoons chili paste (adjust to your preferred spice level)

• 2-3 dried red chilies (optional, for extra heat)

• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder

• 1 teaspoon cumin powder

• 1 teaspoon coriander powder

• 4 cups chicken broth (or water if preferred)

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon vinegar (preferably white or apple cider vinegar)

• Salt to taste

• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Momo Filling

1. Mix the filling: In a bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped onion, ginger, garlic, chopped cilantro, cabbage (if using), soy sauce, sesame oil, pepper, and salt. Mix everything well until all ingredients are evenly combined.

Step 2: Make the Momo Dough

1. Prepare the dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and a pinch of salt. Gradually add water, a little at a time, and knead to form a smooth, soft dough. The dough should be firm but pliable.
2. Rest the dough: Cover the dough with a damp cloth and set it aside for 20-30 minutes. This helps the dough to relax and makes it easier to roll out.

Step 3: Shape the Momos

1. Roll out the dough: After resting, divide the dough into small balls (about 15-20). Roll each ball into a small, thin circle (about 3-4 inches in diameter).
2. Fill and fold: Place a spoonful of the chicken filling in the center of each dough circle. Carefully fold the edges over and pinch them together to form a pleated or simple round shape, ensuring the momo is sealed tightly.

Step 4: Steam the Chicken Momos

1. Steam the momos: Arrange the filled momos in a steamer basket. Steam for about 10-12 minutes or until the dough is cooked through and the chicken filling is fully cooked. You can check by cutting one open to make sure the chicken is no longer pink.

Step 5: Prepare the Chicken Jhol (Soup)

1. Cook the aromatics: Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become soft and golden brown (about 5 minutes).
2. Add garlic and ginger: Stir in the minced ginger and garlic, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add tomatoes and spices: Add chopped tomatoes (or tomato puree), chili paste, dried red chilies, turmeric powder, cumin powder, and coriander powder. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes break down and the spices become aromatic.
4. Add the broth: Pour in the chicken broth (or water if you’re using that). Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Season: Add soy sauce, vinegar, and salt to taste. Let the soup simmer for 10-15 minutes to blend the flavors together. If you want a thinner soup, you can add more water or broth to adjust the consistency.

Step 6: Serve the Chicken Jhol Momo

1. Assemble: Place a few steamed chicken momos into a serving bowl. Pour the hot, flavorful chicken jhol (soup) over the momos.
2. Garnish: Garnish with fresh cilantro for added freshness and a pop of color.

Tips:

• Add more heat: If you prefer extra spice, you can add extra chili paste or even a few sliced green chilies to the broth.
• For a thicker soup: You can add a little cornflour mixed with water to the soup to thicken it if you prefer a more stew-like consistency.
• Veggie addition: For some extra crunch and texture, you can add some finely chopped carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the filling.

This Chicken Jhol Momo is perfect for a cold winter day, offering a spicy, savory broth with juicy chicken-filled dumplings. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this tasty dish.