Nepal, a country known for its rich culture and stunning landscapes, also boasts a delicious variety of vegetarian dishes. With influences from neighboring India and Tibet, Nepali cuisine features vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients.

This blog post presents a collection of vegetarian Nepali recipes that are not only easy to prepare but also full of flavor. Let’s explore these delightful dishes that you will surely love!

1. Dal Bhat: The Nepali Staple

What is Dal Bhat?

Dal Bhat is a traditional Nepali meal consisting of lentil soup (dal) served with rice (bhat). It is the most common meal in Nepal and is often enjoyed daily by families. The simplicity of this dish belies its nutritional value, as it provides a perfect balance of protein, carbohydrates, and vitamins.

Ingredients for Dal Bhat

For Dal:
1 cup red lentils (masoor dal)
4 cups water
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
Salt to taste
1 tablespoon oil
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 onion, chopped
2 tomatoes, chopped
Fresh coriander for garnish

For Bhat:
2 cups rice
4 cups water
Salt to taste

How to Prepare Dal Bhat

Cook the Lentils: In a pot, wash the red lentils and add 4 cups of water, turmeric, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the lentils are soft, about 2030 minutes.

Prepare the Tadka (Tempering): In a separate pan, heat oil and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add chopped onions and sauté until golden brown. Add chopped tomatoes and cook until soft.

Combine: Pour the tadka into the cooked lentils and mix well. Garnish with fresh coriander.

Cook the Rice: Rinse the rice and combine it with 4 cups of water and a pinch of salt in a pot. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat. Cook for 1520 minutes or until the rice is fluffy.

Serve: Serve the dal over rice, accompanied by pickles and a side of vegetable curry for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Dal Bhat is a nourishing and fulfilling dish that serves as the backbone of Nepali cuisine. Its versatility allows for various adaptations, making it a beloved favorite among locals and visitors alike.

2. Vegetable Momos: Delicious Dumplings

What are Momos?

Momos are traditional Nepali dumplings that are popular snacks or appetizers. They can be filled with various ingredients, but vegetable momos are a favorite among vegetarians. These soft and steamed dumplings are often served with spicy dipping sauces.

Ingredients for Vegetable Momos

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

For the Filling:
1 cup finely chopped cabbage
1/2 cup grated carrots
1/2 cup finely chopped onion
2 green chilies, chopped
1 tablespoon soy sauce
Salt to taste
1 teaspoon gingergarlic paste
1 tablespoon oil

How to Prepare Vegetable Momos

Make the Dough: In a bowl, mix allpurpose flour and salt. Gradually add water to form a smooth dough. Cover with a damp cloth and set aside for 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling: Heat oil in a pan, add chopped onions, and sauté until golden. Add cabbage, carrots, green chilies, gingergarlic paste, and soy sauce. Cook until the vegetables are tender. Season with salt.

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 until cooked through.

Serve: Serve hot with a spicy dipping sauce, such as chili sauce or soy sauce.

Conclusion

Vegetable momos are a delightful treat that is loved by many. Their soft texture and flavorful filling make them an excellent option for snacking or as a light meal.

3. Aloo Tikki: Spicy Potato Patties

What is Aloo Tikki?

Aloo Tikki is a popular snack made from mashed potatoes and spices. These spicy potato patties are shallowfried until crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Aloo Tikki is often served with chutney or yogurt.

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: Boil the potatoes until soft. Once cooked, peel and mash them in a bowl.

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

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 hot, carefully add the patties.

Fry Until Golden: Fry the patties until golden brown and crispy on both sides. Drain on paper towels.

Conclusion

Aloo Tikki is a delicious and satisfying snack that is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy them with your favorite chutney for a delightful treat.

4. 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 thin, light flakes. It is a versatile ingredient that can be eaten plain, mixed with spices, or added to yogurt.

Ingredients for Chura

2 cups chura (flattened rice)
1/2 cup roasted peanuts
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon cumin powder
Salt to taste
1 tablespoon oil
Chopped onions and green chilies (optional)

How to Prepare Chura

Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine chura, roasted peanuts, turmeric powder, cumin powder, and salt. Add chopped onions and green chilies if desired.

Drizzle Oil: Drizzle a little oil over the mixture to enhance flavor and mix well.

Serve: Serve the chura as a snack or breakfast option. It can also be enjoyed with yogurt or milk.

Conclusion

Chura is a quick and easy snack that is not only tasty but also nutritious. Its simplicity and versatility make it a beloved choice among many Nepalis.

5. Thukpa: Hearty Noodle Soup

What is Thukpa?

Thukpa is a comforting noodle soup that originated in Tibet but has become popular in Nepal, especially in the mountainous regions. This dish is packed with flavors and is perfect for warming up on a cold day.

Ingredients for Thukpa

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

How to Prepare Thukpa

Cook 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, then add the mixed vegetables. Cook until tender.

Add Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a boil. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper.

Combine with Noodles: Add the cooked noodles to the soup and stir well. Let it simmer for a few minutes.

Serve: Serve hot, garnished with fresh coriander.

Conclusion

Thukpa is a nourishing and flavorful dish that is perfect for any time of the day. Its warmth and heartiness make it a favorite among many, especially during the colder months.

6. Dhokla: Steamed Chickpea Cake

What is Dhokla?

Dhokla is a popular steamed cake made from chickpea flour (besan) and is often enjoyed as a snack or breakfast item. It is fluffy, light, and can be flavored with various spices.

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. Gradually add water to make a smooth batter. Let it rest for about 1520 minutes.

Add Eno: Just before steaming, add Eno fruit salt or baking soda to the batter and mix well. This will help make the dhokla fluffy.

Grease the Steamer: Grease a steaming tray or a round cake pan and pour the batter into it, spreading it evenly.

Steam the Dhokla: Place the tray in a steamer filled with boiling water. Cover and steam for about 1520 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Temper the Dhokla: In a small pan, heat a little oil and add mustard seeds and curry leaves. Once they start to splutter, pour this tempering over the steamed dhokla. Serving Suggestions Cut the dhokla into squares and serve warm with green chutney or sweet tamarind sauce. This dish is perfect for tea time or as a light snack.

Conclusion

Dhokla is a delightful dish that is both nutritious and delicious. Its fluffy texture and vibrant flavors make it a favorite among many, and it’s easy to prepare at home.

7. Aloo Baida: Spiced Potato Fritters

What is Aloo Baida?

Aloo Baida is a popular Nepali snack made from spiced mashed potatoes and flour. These fritters are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them a perfect snack for any time of the day.

Ingredients for Aloo Baida

4 medium potatoes, boiled and mashed
1/2 cup allpurpose flour
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon red chili powder
Salt to taste
Oil for frying

How to Prepare Aloo Baida

Mix the Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, cumin seeds, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.

Shape into Fritters: Take small portions of the potato mixture and shape them into flat patties. Dip each patty into allpurpose flour to coat it lightly.

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

Fry Until Golden: Fry the patties until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serving Suggestions Serve Aloo Baida hot with ketchup or mint chutney. They make a perfect snack for tea time or as an appetizer for gatherings.

Conclusion

Aloo Baida is an easytomake and satisfying snack that everyone will love. Its crispy texture and spicy flavor make it a delightful treat for any occasion.

8. Chana Masala: Spiced Chickpeas

What is Chana Masala?

Chana Masala is a popular North Indian dish that has also found its way into Nepali cuisine. It is a flavorful and hearty chickpea curry that is perfect for a filling meal. Packed with spices, this dish is often served with rice or flatbreads.

Ingredients for Chana Masala

1 cup chickpeas (soaked overnight)
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 tomatoes, chopped
2 green chilies, chopped
1 teaspoon gingergarlic paste
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 teaspoon coriander powder
1 teaspoon garam masala
Salt to taste
2 tablespoons oil
Fresh coriander for garnish

How to Prepare Chana Masala

Cook Chickpeas: Drain and rinse the soaked chickpeas. In a pressure cooker, cook the chickpeas with water and salt until tender. Set aside.

Sauté Onions: In a pan, heat oil and add cumin seeds. Once they splutter, add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.

Add Tomatoes and Spices: Add gingergarlic paste, green chilies, and chopped tomatoes. Cook until the tomatoes are soft. Add coriander powder, garam masala, and salt, stirring well.

Combine with Chickpeas: Add the cooked chickpeas to the pan and mix everything well. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh coriander and serve hot with rice or flatbreads.

Conclusion

Chana Masala is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is easy to prepare. It’s perfect for a hearty meal and is loved by many for its delicious taste and satisfying texture.

9. Vegetable Pakoras: Crispy Vegetable Fritters

What are Vegetable Pakoras?

Vegetable Pakoras are a popular snack made by deepfrying mixed vegetables in a spiced chickpea flour batter. These fritters are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a perfect companion for tea or as an appetizer.

Ingredients for Vegetable Pakoras

1 cup mixed vegetables (potatoes, onions, spinach, cauliflower)
1 cup chickpea flour (besan)
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon red chili powder
Salt to taste
Water (as needed)
Oil for frying

How to Prepare Vegetable Pakoras

Prepare Vegetables: Wash and cut the vegetables into bitesized pieces.

Make the Batter: In a bowl, mix chickpea flour, cumin seeds, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Gradually add water to make a thick batter.

Coat Vegetables: Dip the vegetable pieces into the batter until well coated.

Heat Oil: In a frying pan, heat oil for deep frying. Once the oil is hot, carefully drop in the coated vegetables.

Fry Until Golden: Fry until the pakoras are golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serving Suggestions Serve hot with mint chutney or tamarind sauce. Vegetable pakoras are great for sharing and are a favorite during rainy days.

Conclusion

Vegetable Pakoras are a delicious and easy snack that brings joy to any gathering. Their crispy texture and flavorful spices make them a favorite among many.

10. Yomari: Steamed Sweet Dumplings

What is Yomari?

Yomari is a traditional Newari sweet dumpling made from rice flour and filled with a sweet mixture of coconut and jaggery. This delicacy is often prepared during festivals and special occasions, making it a cherished part of Nepali cuisine.

Ingredients for Yomari

For the Dough:
1 cup rice flour
Water (as needed)

For the Filling:
1 cup grated coconut
1/2 cup jaggery (or brown sugar)
1/2 teaspoon cardamom powder

How to Prepare Yomari

Make the Dough: In a bowl, mix rice flour with enough water to form a smooth, pliable dough. Set it aside.

Prepare the Filling: In a pan, combine grated coconut, jaggery, and cardamom powder. Cook over low heat until the jaggery melts and everything is well combined. Let it cool.

Shape the Yomari: Take a small portion of the dough and flatten it into a disc. Place a spoonful of the coconut filling in the center. Carefully fold the edges over to form a pouch, sealing it well.

Steam the Yomari: Place the prepared yomaris in a steamer and steam for about 1520 minutes until cooked through. Serving Suggestions Serve yomari warm as a dessert or sweet snack. They are best enjoyed fresh and can be a delightful treat during festivals or special occasions.

Conclusion

Yomari is a unique and delicious sweet that showcases the culinary heritage of Nepal. Its delicate flavor and soft texture make it a favorite among those with a sweet tooth.

FAQs About Vegetarian Nepali Recipes

1. What are some popular vegetarian Nepali dishes?

Some popular vegetarian Nepali dishes include dal bhat, momos, aloo tikki, chura, thukpa, dhokla, and vegetable pakoras.

2. Are Nepali dishes spicy?

Many Nepali dishes are flavorful and can be spicy, but the spice level can often be adjusted to suit individual preferences.

3. Can I find vegetarian options in Nepali restaurants?

Yes, most Nepali restaurants offer a variety of vegetarian options to cater to different dietary preferences.

4. What is a typical Nepali meal like?

A typical Nepali meal includes dal (lentil soup), bhat (rice), vegetable curries, and pickles, often accompanied by yogurt.

5. Is Nepali cuisine healthy?

Nepali cuisine can be quite healthy, especially with a focus on fresh vegetables, legumes, and whole grains. Many dishes are low in fat and high in nutrients.

6. Can I make Nepali recipes at home?

Yes, most Nepali recipes are simple to prepare at home using readily available ingredients. Many recipes can be adapted to suit your taste.

7. What are some common ingredients used in Nepali vegetarian cooking?

Common ingredients include rice, lentils, vegetables, spices (like turmeric, cumin, and coriander), and herbs (like cilantro and mint).

8. How long do vegetarian Nepali dishes last?

Most vegetarian dishes can last 35 days in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to consume them fresh for the best flavor and quality.

9. Are there glutenfree options in Nepali cuisine?

Yes, many Nepali dishes are naturally glutenfree, such as ricebased dishes, lentil soups, and various vegetable preparations.

10. What is the best way to enjoy Nepali food?

Nepali food is often enjoyed with family and friends. Sharing meals is an essential part of the culture, so try to serve and eat together for the best experience!

Nepali vegetarian recipes are diverse, flavorful, and deeply rooted in tradition. Each dish tells a story and reflects the cultural richness of the country. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, these recipes will surely bring the taste of Nepal to your kitchen. Enjoy cooking and sharing these delightful dishes with your loved ones!