Quick and Easy Nepali Snacks

Nepal is known for its rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and, of course, its delicious food. Among the many culinary delights, Nepali snacks stand out for their unique flavors and textures. This blog post will explore a variety of quick and easy Nepali snacks that you can prepare at home.

Whether you’re looking for something savory, sweet, or crunchy, there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive into the world of Nepali snacks!

1.Aloo Tikki: Spiced Potato Patties

What is Aloo Tikki?

Aloo Tikki is a popular Nepali snack made from mashed potatoes and spices. These spiced potato patties are often shallowfried until they are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Aloo Tikki can be served as a snack or as a side dish with meals. It’s a favorite among kids and adults alike.

Ingredients for Aloo Tikki

4 mediumsized potatoes
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1 teaspoon garam masala
2 green chilies, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh coriander leaves, chopped
Salt to taste
Oil for frying

How to Prepare Aloo Tikki

Boil Potatoes: Start by boiling the potatoes until they are soft. Once cooked, peel and mash them in a bowl.

Mix Ingredients: Add cumin seeds, coriander powder, garam masala, chopped green chilies, chopped coriander leaves, and salt to the mashed potatoes. Mix well until all the ingredients are combined.

Shape Patties: Take small portions of the mixture and shape them into flat patties.

Heat Oil: In a frying pan, heat oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the patties.

Fry Until Golden: Fry the patties until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Aloo Tikki hot with mint chutney or tamarind sauce for added flavor. This snack is perfect for evening tea or as a party appetizer.

2.Momos: Steamed Dumplings

What are Momos?

Momos are delicious steamed dumplings filled with a variety of ingredients. They are a popular snack in Nepal, especially in the Kathmandu Valley. Momos can be filled with vegetables, chicken, or buffalo meat, making them a versatile and tasty option.

Ingredients for Momos

For the Dough:
2 cups allpurpose flour
Water (as needed)
A pinch of salt

For the Filling:
1 cup finely chopped vegetables (cabbage, carrots, and bell peppers) or minced meat
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon gingergarlic paste
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon oil

How to Prepare Momos

Make the Dough: In a bowl, mix flour and salt. Gradually add water and knead until you have a smooth dough. Cover with a damp cloth and set aside.

Prepare the Filling: Heat oil in a pan. Add chopped vegetables (or meat) and sauté for a few minutes. Add gingergarlic paste, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook until the filling is well combined. Let it cool.

Shape the Momos: Divide the dough into small balls. Roll each ball into a thin circle. Place a spoonful of filling in the center, then fold and pinch the edges to seal.

Steam the Momos: Place the momos in a steamer lined with parchment paper. Steam for about 1520 minutes or until they are cooked through.

Serving Suggestions

Serve momos with spicy chili sauce or soy sauce. They are a perfect snack for gatherings or family gettogethers.

3.Chura: Flattened Rice Snack

What is Chura?

Chura, or flattened rice, is a traditional Nepali snack made from rice that has been flattened into thin, light flakes. It is often eaten as a quick snack, mixed with yogurt, or as part of a meal. Chura is very versatile and can be flavored in various ways.

Ingredients for Chura Snack

2 cups chura (flattened rice)
1 cup yogurt (optional)
1/2 cup chopped fruits (banana, apples)
1/4 cup roasted nuts (peanuts, almonds)
Honey or sugar (to taste)

How to Prepare Chura Snack

Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine chura, yogurt (if using), and chopped fruits.

Add Nuts: Add roasted nuts for crunch and flavor.

Sweeten: Drizzle honey or sprinkle sugar to taste. Mix everything gently.

Serving Suggestions

Chura can be enjoyed as a light breakfast or a quick snack throughout the day. It is nutritious and easy to prepare, making it a favorite among busy individuals.

4.Pani Puri: Spicy Water Balls

What is Pani Puri?

Pani Puri is a popular street food snack in Nepal. It consists of small, round, hollow puris filled with spicy tamarind water and a mixture of mashed potatoes and chickpeas. This snack is known for its burst of flavors and is often enjoyed during hot days.

Ingredients for Pani Puri

For the Puri:
1 cup semolina (sooji)
1/4 cup allpurpose flour
Water (as needed)
Oil for frying

For the Filling:
1 cup boiled and mashed potatoes
1/2 cup boiled chickpeas
1 teaspoon chaat masala
Salt to taste

For the Water:
1/2 cup tamarind pulp
1 teaspoon roasted cumin powder
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt to taste
Water (to dilute)

How to Prepare Pani Puri

Make the Puri Dough: Mix semolina, allpurpose flour, and a pinch of salt. Add water gradually to form a stiff dough. Let it rest for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine mashed potatoes, boiled chickpeas, chaat masala, and salt. Mix well.

Make the Puri: Roll the dough into small balls and flatten them into thin discs. Deepfry in hot oil until they puff up and turn golden brown.

Prepare the Water: In a bowl, mix tamarind pulp, roasted cumin powder, chili powder, and salt. Dilute with water to your desired spiciness.

Serving Suggestions

To serve, take a puri, fill it with the potatochickpea mixture, and dip it into the spicy tamarind water. Enjoy it immediately for the best experience!

5.Samosa: Spicy Potato Pastries

What is Samosa?

Samosa is a beloved snack in Nepal, consisting of a crispy pastry filled with spiced potatoes, peas, and sometimes meat. Samosas are usually deepfried and are perfect for sharing during gatherings.

Ingredients for Samosa

For the Dough:
2 cups allpurpose flour
1/4 cup oil or ghee
Water (as needed)
Salt to taste

For the Filling:
3 mediumsized potatoes, boiled and mashed
1/2 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt to taste
Oil for frying

How to Prepare Samosa

Make the Dough: In a bowl, mix allpurpose flour, salt, and oil. Gradually add water to form a smooth dough. Cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling: In a pan, heat a little oil. Add cumin seeds, followed by the mashed potatoes and peas. Stir in garam masala, chili powder, and salt. Cook for a few minutes and let it cool.

Shape the Samosas: Divide the dough into small balls. Roll each ball into a thin circle, cut it in half, and shape it into a cone. Fill the cone with the potato mixture and seal the edges.

Fry the Samosas: Heat oil in a pan. Deepfry the samosas until they are golden brown and crispy. Serving Suggestions

Serve samosas hot with mint chutney or tamarind sauce. They are perfect for snacking at any time of the day.

6.Chura Dahi: Flattened Rice with Yogurt

What is Chura Dahi?

Chura Dahi is a simple and nutritious snack made from flattened rice and yogurt. It is often eaten for breakfast or as a light meal. The combination of chura and yogurt is refreshing and filling.

Ingredients for Chura Dahi

2 cups chura (flattened rice)
1 cup plain yogurt
1/2 teaspoon sugar or honey (optional)
1/4 cup chopped fruits (bananas, apples)
Nuts for garnish (optional)

How to Prepare Chura Dahi

Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix chura with plain yogurt. Stir well to ensure the chura is fully coated.

Sweeten (Optional): If you prefer a sweeter taste, add sugar or honey to the mixture. Stir until well combined.

Add Fruits: Fold in chopped fruits of your choice, such as bananas or apples, for added flavor and nutrition.

Garnish: Top with nuts if desired for extra crunch.

Serving Suggestions

Chura Dahi can be served in bowls as a quick breakfast or snack. It’s refreshing, nutritious, and perfect for hot days when you need something light and satisfying.

7.Thukpa: Noodle Soup

What is Thukpa?

Thukpa is a hearty noodle soup that is very popular in Nepal, especially in the mountainous regions. It is a Tibetaninfluenced dish that has become a beloved comfort food for many Nepalis. Thukpa is made with a variety of vegetables, meat, and spices, providing a warm and fulfilling meal.

Ingredients for Thukpa

200g noodles (egg or wheat)
1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, cabbage, bell peppers)
1 cup chicken or tofu (optional)
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon gingergarlic paste
Salt and pepper to taste
Chili flakes for spice (optional)
Fresh coriander for garnish

How to Prepare Thukpa

Cook the Noodles: Boil water in a pot and cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables: In a separate pot, heat a little oil and add gingergarlic paste. Sauté for a minute before adding the mixed vegetables. Cook until they are tender.

Add Broth and Meat/Tofu: Pour in the broth and add chicken or tofu if using. Bring to a boil and let simmer for 10 minutes.

Combine with Noodles: Add the cooked noodles to the soup and stir well. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper. If you like it spicy, add chili flakes.

Garnish and Serve: Serve hot, garnished with fresh coriander.

Serving Suggestions

Thukpa is best enjoyed hot and is perfect for cold days. It’s a filling snack or light meal that warms you from the inside out.

8.Pani Puri: Spicy Water Balls

What is Pani Puri?

Pani Puri, also known as Puchka or Golgappa, is a beloved street snack in Nepal. It consists of crispy hollow puris filled with spicy water, tamarind chutney, and a mix of mashed potatoes and chickpeas. The combination of flavors and textures makes it an irresistible treat.

Ingredients for Pani Puri

For the Puri:
1 cup semolina (sooji)
1/4 cup allpurpose flour
Water (as needed)
Oil for frying

For the Filling:
1 cup boiled and mashed potatoes
1/2 cup boiled chickpeas
1 teaspoon chaat masala
Salt to taste

For the Spicy Water:
1/2 cup tamarind pulp
1 teaspoon roasted cumin powder
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt to taste
Water (to dilute)

How to Prepare Pani Puri

Make the Puri Dough: Mix semolina, allpurpose flour, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Gradually add water to form a stiff dough. Let it rest for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix the mashed potatoes, boiled chickpeas, chaat masala, and salt.

Make the Puri: Roll out small balls of dough into thin discs. Deepfry them in hot oil until they puff up and become crispy.

Prepare the Spicy Water: In a bowl, mix tamarind pulp, roasted cumin powder, chili powder, and salt. Dilute with water to your desired taste.

Serving Suggestions

To serve, take a puri, fill it with the potatochickpea mixture, and dip it into the spicy water. Enjoy the burst of flavors in every bite!

9.Dhokla: Steamed Chickpea Cake

What is Dhokla?

Dhokla is a savory steamed cake made from chickpea flour (besan). It is a popular snack in Nepal and is known for its fluffy texture and tangy flavor. Dhokla can be enjoyed with green chutney or as part of a meal.

Ingredients for Dhokla

1 cup chickpea flour (besan)
1/2 cup yogurt
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon Eno fruit salt or baking soda
Salt to taste
Water (as needed)
Oil for greasing
Mustard seeds and curry leaves for tempering

How to Prepare Dhokla

Prepare the Batter: In a bowl, mix chickpea flour, yogurt, turmeric powder, and salt. Add water to make a smooth batter.

Add Eno: Just before steaming, add Eno fruit salt or baking soda to the batter and mix well.

Grease the Steamer: Grease a steaming tray or pan and pour in the batter.

Steam: Steam for about 1520 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Temper: In a small pan, heat oil and add mustard seeds and curry leaves. Once they splutter, pour over the steamed dhokla.

Serving Suggestions

Cut the dhokla into squares and serve warm with green chutney. It’s a light and nutritious snack that is perfect for any time of day.

10.Chura: Flattened Rice with Spices

What is Chura?

Chura, or flattened rice, is a traditional Nepali snack made from rice that has been flattened into light, crisp flakes. It is often mixed with spices, nuts, and sometimes yogurt or milk to create a delicious snack or breakfast option.

Ingredients for Chura

2 cups chura (flattened rice)
1/4 cup peanuts or mixed nuts
1/4 cup sugar or jaggery (optional)
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon cumin powder
Salt to taste

How to Prepare Chura

Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine chura, nuts, turmeric powder, cumin powder, and salt. If using, add sugar or jaggery to sweeten.

Toss Well: Toss all the ingredients together until the chura is evenly coated with spices and nuts. Serving Suggestions

Chura can be served as a light snack or a quick breakfast. It is often enjoyed with tea or yogurt and is perfect for onthego munching.

11.FAQs About Quick and Easy Nepali Snacks

1.What are some popular Nepali snacks?

Some popular Nepali snacks include Aloo Tikki, Momos, Pani Puri, Samosas, Thukpa, and Chura.

2.Are Nepali snacks easy to prepare?

Yes, many Nepali snacks are quick and easy to prepare with simple ingredients, making them perfect for any occasion.

3.Can I make Nepali snacks vegetarian?

Yes, most Nepali snacks can be made vegetarian. There are plenty of options that are entirely plantbased, such as Aloo Tikki, Chura, and Dhokla.

4.Where can I find recipes for Nepali snacks?

You can find recipes for Nepali snacks online, in cookbooks, or by asking friends and family who are familiar with Nepali cuisine.

5.What is the best way to serve Nepali snacks?

Nepali snacks are often served with chutneys, yogurt, or pickles for added flavor. They can be presented on a platter for sharing or served individually.

6.Are Nepali snacks spicy?

Many Nepali snacks incorporate spices, which can make them flavorful and sometimes spicy. However, you can adjust the spice levels according to your taste.

7.How can I store leftover Nepali snacks?

Leftover snacks can usually be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Some snacks, like momos and samosas, can be reheated in the oven for a crispy texture.

8.What are some healthy Nepali snacks?

Healthier options include Chura (flattened rice) mixed with nuts and spices, Dhokla (steamed chickpea cake), and salads made with fresh vegetables.

9.Can I make Nepali snacks in advance?

Yes, many Nepali snacks can be made in advance and stored for later use. Just make sure to follow proper storage methods to keep them fresh.

10.What beverages pair well with Nepali snacks?

Nepali snacks pair well with beverages like masala chai, lassi, or even fresh fruit juices.

Nepali snacks are not only delicious but also reflect the rich culinary heritage of Nepal. Whether you’re preparing snacks for a family gathering or enjoying a light meal at home, these quick and easy recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy the process of cooking and sharing these treats with your loved ones!