The Secret to Crispy, Delicious Momos is Finally Revealed!

Fried Chicken Momos: A Crispy Delight

Fried chicken momos are a delicious variation of the traditional steamed momos, offering a delightful crunch to the familiar savory filling. Here's the recipe for making them at home.

Ingredients:

For the dough:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• Water (as needed)

For the filling:

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 1 tablespoon chopped garlic
• 1 tablespoon chopped ginger
• 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon chopped coriander leaves (cilantro)
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Make the dough: In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add water, kneading until it forms a soft, elastic dough. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the filling: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger, and saute until softened. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.

3. Season the filling: Stir in soy sauce, salt, pepper, and green chili (if using). Remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Once cool, add chopped coriander leaves.

4. Assemble the momos: Divide the dough into small balls. On a lightly floured surface, roll each ball into a thin disc. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of the disc.

5. Shaping the momos: Bring the edges of the dough together to form a half-moon shape. Pinch the edges to seal the momo, creating pleats along the sides. Repeat with remaining dough and filling.

6. Steam the momos (optional): In a steamer basket, steam the momos for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through. This step is optional and can be skipped if you prefer a crispier texture.

7. Fry the momos: Heat oil in a deep pan or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, gently lower the momos (steamed or unsteamed) into the oil. Fry in batches until golden brown and crispy on all sides.

8. Serve: Drain the momos on paper towels and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as chutney or chili sauce.

Tips:

• For a crispier dough, add a teaspoon of oil to the dough while kneading.
• If the dough becomes too dry while rolling, moisten your hands with a little water.
• Be careful not to overfill the momos, as they may burst open while cooking.
• Adjust the amount of chili pepper according to your spice preference.
• You can also use a combination of ground chicken and other meats like minced vegetables or shrimp for a variation in flavor.

Enjoy your homemade fried chicken momos!