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LUNCH

Tibetan Lamb and Vegetable Momos with Chili Garlic Sauce

These savory Tibetan momos are filled with a flavorful mixture of ground lamb and finely diced vegetables, steamed to perfection, and served with a vibrant homemade chili garlic dipping sauce. A comforting and authentic taste of the Himalayas, perfect for a satisfying lunch.

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HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

01

In a large bowl, combine the ground lamb, chopped cabbage, chopped onion, minced ginger, minced garlic, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.

02

Prepare the chili garlic sauce by whisking together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, and chili garlic sauce in a small bowl. Set aside.

03

To assemble the momos, take one wonton wrapper and place about 1 teaspoon of the lamb filling in the center. Moisten the edges of the wrapper with a little water.

04

Fold the wrapper in half to create a semicircle, pressing the edges to seal. Then, pleat the sealed edge to form a traditional momo shape. Repeat with the remaining filling and wrappers.

05

Arrange the momos in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper or lightly oiled to prevent sticking. Ensure there is space between each momo.

06

Steam the momos over boiling water for 10-12 minutes, or until the lamb filling is cooked through and the wrappers are tender and translucent. Cook in batches if necessary.

07

Serve the hot momos immediately with the prepared chili garlic dipping sauce.

About This Recipe

These savory Tibetan momos are filled with a flavorful mixture of ground lamb and finely diced vegetables, steamed to perfection, and served with a vibrant homemade chili garlic dipping sauce. A comforting and authentic taste of the Himalayas, perfect for a satisfying lunch.
Tibetan Lamb and Vegetable Momos with Chili Garlic Sauce
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.
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Chef's Tips

To prevent momos from sticking, lightly oil your steamer basket or use perforated parchment paper. For extra flavor in the filling, you can add a pinch of Sichuan peppercorns or a dash of cumin. Don't overfill the wrappers, as this can make them difficult to seal and prone to breaking during steaming.
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Easy Substitutions

Ground beef or chicken can be used instead of lamb. For a vegetarian option, use finely crumbled firm tofu or mushrooms. Napa cabbage can be used for a slightly sweeter flavor. If you don't have wonton wrappers, you can use homemade dumpling dough.
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Storage & Reheating

Cooked momos can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat by steaming for a few minutes until warmed through. Uncooked momos can be frozen on a baking sheet until solid, then transferred to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Steam directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these momos as a main course for lunch, accompanied by a simple cucumber salad or a clear vegetable broth. They also make an excellent appetizer for a larger meal. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro or chopped scallions over the top adds a nice touch of freshness.

Common Mistakes

Overfilling the wrappers: This makes sealing difficult and can cause momos to burst during steaming. Use about 1 teaspoon of filling per wrapper. Not sealing properly: If the edges aren't sealed tightly, the filling can leak out. Ensure the edges are moist and pressed firmly together. Overcooking: Steaming for too long can make the wrappers mushy and the filling dry. Stick to the recommended 10-12 minutes. Not oiling the steamer: Momos will stick to an unlined or unoiled steamer basket, making them difficult to remove without tearing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fry or pan-fry these momos instead of steaming?

Yes, you can pan-fry them! Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat, place momos in a single layer, and cook until the bottoms are golden brown (about 2-3 minutes). Then, add 1/4 cup of water, cover, and steam for 5-7 minutes until cooked through.

What if I can't find round wonton wrappers?

Square wonton wrappers can be used. Simply trim the corners to make them more circular, or fold them into triangles or rectangles.

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! The lamb and vegetable filling can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
MORE TO KNOW
The art of folding momos can be a fun challenge. While the pleated crescent is traditional, a simple half-moon shape is perfectly acceptable and delicious. The key is to ensure a tight seal to keep the juicy filling inside. If your wrappers feel dry, a quick brush with water will help them adhere. Experiment with different pleating techniques to find one that works best for you.
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