Nepal is a country known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and delicious food.
In this article, I have compiled a list of famous Nepalese foods. You can easily find them at restaurants, street food stalls, and local markets throughout Nepal.
One of the most famous Nepalese dishes is Dal Bhat, which is considered the national dish of Nepal.
It is a simple meal that consists of lentil soup (dal), steamed rice (Bhat) served with vegetables and achar (spicy sauce). This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious and filling, making it a staple in the Nepalese diet.
Other famous dishes include Momo, Thali Khana, Newari Food, sel roti, pani puri, and Chowmein.
So, if you want to truly experience Nepal’s culinary culture, here are some of its popular foods.
Traditional Nepali Food
#1. Dal Bhat
Dal Bhat tarkari is considered the traditional meal of Nepal and is a staple meal in Nepali households. It is a simple yet nutritious meal that consists of steamed rice (Bhat), lentil soup (dal), and vegetable curries or meat curries. It is often accompanied by pickles and tomato achar (spicy sauce).
Street Foods of Nepal
Nepal is famous for its delicious street food culture. Here are some of the most famous street foods of Nepal:
#2. Momo
Momo is Nepalese dumplings made with flour and vegetarian or meat filling served with spicy dipping sauce.
A dipping sauce adds another layer of flavor to momos
It is one of Nepal’s most famous street foods and one of my favorite foods. There are various types of momo in Nepal, like vegetarian, chicken, pork, and buff momo; however, the most popular is buff momo, made with buffalo meat.
Momos are readily available everywhere, from street stalls to fine-dining restaurants.
It’s a must-try food in Nepal. It can be found in various forms, including steamed and fried. If you prefer spicy foods, you can try chili momo or sadeko momo.
#3. Chowmein
Nepali chowmein is a popular noodle dish. It is made with thin stir-fried noodles and various vegetables, meat, and spices cooked with soy sauce and other seasonings.
It is a satisfying and convenient meal that can be enjoyed any time of the day. Along with momos, it is a popular street food in Nepal and can be found at many food stalls and restaurants.
You can find various chowmein options, including vegetarian and meat ones (mixed, pork, egg, chicken, and buff). Don’t hesitate to try it!
#4. Samay Baji
Samay Baji is a popular Newari dish. It consists of several small dishes served together on a single platter.
“Newari” is often used to describe things specific to the Newar culture, such as food, festivals, and other cultural practices.
It is a great way to experience the diverse and flavorful cuisine of the Newar people, who are known for their rich culinary traditions.
The items included in a Newari platter can vary, but it typically consists of various dishes such as curries, pickles, meats, and vegetables. The Newari platter consists of the following:
- Beaten rice(Chuira), bara (Lentil pancake), chatamari (Newari pancake), alo ko achar (spicy potato salad), bhatmas sadeko(soybean pickle), choila (grilled meat), black-eyed peas curry and egg.
These dishes are served individually or as a side dish on a Newari platter.
#5. Pani Puri
Pani Puri is a popular street food in Nepal, also known as golgappa in India. It is a small, crispy, hollow ball filled with spiced potatoes, chickpeas, and tamarind water.
#6. Laphing
Laphing is a popular street food in Nepal that is similar to a cold noodle salad. It is made by mixing a dough of mung bean flour, water, and spices and then rolling it out into thin sheets.
The sheets are then cut into thin strips and served with a spicy sauce made from chili, garlic, and vinegar.
#7. Sukuti
Sukuti is a common food in Nepal. It is prepared by marinating slices of raw meat in a mixture of spices, drying it in the sun for a day or two, and smoking it in the above fire for days.
The meat of choice for Sukuti is usually buffalo or goat. It is cooked with vegetables as a curry or just by itself and is chewy in texture with a smoky flavor.
It is one of my favorite dish and a must-try dish in Nepal.
Festive Dishes
Nepal has diverse cultures and traditions, and festivals play a significant role in Nepalese society. During these festivals, Nepalese people prepare special dishes to celebrate the occasion. Here are some famous festive dishes in Nepal:
#8. Yomari
Nepal has many sweet dishes, but if you want something different, try Yamari. Yamari is a traditional sweet dessert of the Newari community but enjoyed by all Nepalese people. It is specially made during the winter season and the Yomari Punhi festival.
It is a triangular-shaped steamed dumpling made of rice flour. It is filled with sweetened chaku (molasses), sesame seeds, and kuwa, then steamed and served hot.
#9. Sel Roti
Sel Roti is a traditional Nepali sweet bread that is often served during festivals, special occasions, and family gatherings.
It is made by mixing rice flour with sugar, milk, and water to form a thick batter. The batter is then poured into a circular mold and deep-fried until golden brown.
Sel Roti has a crispy exterior and a soft and chewy interior. It is a favorite among Nepalese and is often paired with a cup of hot tea. It is usually served with aloo dum, spicy potato salad, and side dishes like chickpeas (chana curry).
Regional Specialties
Nepal has a diverse geography, which is reflected in its cuisine. Here are some of the regional specialties that are worth trying:
#10. Gundruk
Gundruk is a fermented leafy green vegetable that is a staple in Nepali cuisine. It is made by fermenting mustard greens, radish leaves, or spinach leaves. The fermentation process gives it a sour taste and a slightly slimy texture. Gundruk is often used to make soup or curry and is usually served with rice.
#11. Dhido
Dhido or Dedho is a typical dish in Nepal, widely consumed in the Himalayan or hilly region. The main ingredients are flour and water. Flour can vary from millet, buckwheat, or corn flour.
It is usually served with any curry of your choice and lentil soup. It also tastes great with meat curries or Nepali achar (pickle).
The technique of eating dido is different from rice. You make a small roll with your finger and dip it without swallowing it.
It is a unique type of dish that is worth trying in Nepal.
Beverages and Desserts
#12. Chiya
Chiya, or tea, is a staple beverage in Nepal and is consumed throughout the day. It is made by boiling tea leaves, milk, and sugar together with a variety of spices, including ginger, cardamom, and cinnamon, which add flavor and warmth to the drink.
The tea is usually served with biscuits or snacks, and it is our common gesture of hospitality to offer a cup of tea to guests.
#13. Tongba
Tongba is a traditional alcoholic beverage that is popular in the eastern regions of Nepal. It is made by fermenting millet or rice and then serving it hot in a wooden container with a bamboo straw. The drink is consumed by sipping through the straw and refilling the container with hot water. Tongba is often served during festivals and celebrations, and it is a symbol of Nepali culture and tradition.
#14. Juju Dhau
Juju Dhau, also known as “king curd,” is a famous dessert from the city of Bhaktapur in Nepal. It is made by boiling milk and then adding a culture of bacteria to the mixture.
The curd is then left to ferment in clay pots, which gives it a unique flavor and texture. Juju Dhau is often served during festivals and special occasions, and it is considered a delicacy in Nepal.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Nepal’s cuisine is rich in flavor and history, reflecting the country’s diverse cultural influences. The foods listed above are part of the Nepali people’s everyday food culture and are the most popular food in Nepal.
Many delicious dishes are worth trying, from the national dish Dal Bhat to spicy chowmein. This is a great way to get a taste of Nepalese cuisine!