Nepali Cuisine: What to Eat and Where to Find It

Nepali cuisine is a diverse and flavorful amalgamation of Indian, Tibetan, and Chinese culinary influences. With a rich history and culture, Nepal has developed a unique food culture that's worth exploring. If you're planning to visit Nepal, here's a guide to the must-try dishes and where to find them.

Dal Bhat: The Staple Food

Dal Bhat, the staple food of Nepal, is a nutritious and filling meal that consists of steamed rice, lentil soup, and vegetables. It's usually served with achar (pickle), papad (a crispy flatbread), and sometimes, meat or fish. You can find this dish at almost every Nepali restaurant, and it's a must-try for anyone visiting Nepal.

Momo: The Iconic Nepali Dumplings

Momo is a type of dumpling that's widely popular in Nepal. It's made with a thin dough filled with meat, vegetables, or cheese and steamed or fried to perfection. You can find momos in almost every street corner in Nepal, and it's a must-try dish for anyone visiting Nepal. Some popular momo fillings include chicken, buff (water buffalo), and vegetarian.

Sel Roti: The Nepali Donut

Sel Roti is a type of donut made from rice flour, sugar, and ghee (clarified butter). It's usually served during festivals and special occasions and is a popular snack among Nepalis. You can find Sel Roti at most Nepali sweet shops, especially during festivals like Dashain and Tihar.

Chatamari: The Nepali Pizza

Chatamari is a type of Nepali pizza made with rice flour, lentils, and eggs. It's a popular snack or breakfast item in Nepal and is usually topped with meat, vegetables, or cheese. You can find Chatamari at most local street food stalls or restaurants.

Thukpa: The Nepali Noodle Soup

Thukpa is a type of Nepali noodle soup that's usually made with vegetables, meat, or seafood. It's a popular dish in the mountainous regions of Nepal and is often served as a comfort food during cold weather. You can find Thukpa at most local restaurants in the mountainous regions of Nepal.

Juju Dhau: The Nepali Yogurt

Juju Dhau is a type of sweet yogurt that's widely popular in Nepal, especially in the Bhaktapur region. It's made by boiling milk for several hours and then adding a special culture to it. You can find Juju Dhau at most sweet shops in Bhaktapur, and it's a must-try for anyone visiting the region.

Choyla: The Nepali BBQ

Choyla is a type of Nepali BBQ that's made with marinated meat, usually buffalo or chicken. It's a popular dish in the Kathmandu Valley and is often served with beaten rice or puffed rice. You can find Choyla at most Nepali restaurants in the Kathmandu Valley.

In conclusion, Nepali cuisine is a diverse and flavorful mix of Indian, Tibetan, and Chinese culinary influences. From the staple food of Dal Bhat to the iconic Nepali dumplings of Momo, there's something for everyone to try. So, when you visit Nepal, make sure to indulge in the local cuisine and explore the many flavors it has to offer.