You are ready to make your next trip to Nepal, a Himalayan country famous for its classical trekking routes and cultural wonders. But many of us are not aware of these hidden gems of tasty culinary delights. 

Culinary delights come from different local cultures that celebrate their rich cultural heritage. The local herbs and spices from the local region make Nepali food authentic and tasty. How about we explore some of the must-try food in Nepal to make your trip memorable? 

Best Food To Try In Nepal 

Nepal is a land of rich cultural history and treasures. Many cultural groups live in peace and harmony in Nepal. 

They all signify their customs and traditions. And they love to share their recipes and food with other people. Whether it is Newari or Thakali, there are a bunch of foods you can try. 

Thakali Khana 

Thakali Khana is a flavoursome food consisting of a particular type of Dal Bhat. The plate of food consists of steamed rice, a thick texture of dal, spicy pickles, different vegetable curry, gundruk, meat, and a spoonful of ghee. Besides, every plate consists of carbohydrates, nutrients, and protein, so you should not worry about your calorie intake.

The texture and taste of the food when you eat you can understand why it is so unique and unforgettable. These blends also represent the culinary traditions of the Thakali people.  

Best place to try out: Jimbhu Thakali 

Newari Khaja Set

When you reach Durbar Square, you must try the authentic Newari Khaja set. The plate of food consists of chuira (beaten rice), buffalo meat(cholla), mustard green (gundruk), bara(lentil patties), spicy pickles, aloo tama(boiled and marinated potatoes), and various side dishes like boiled eggs and fried soybeans. The set shows a rich and diverse taste that blends with a spicy, tangy taste. It highlights the Newari culture and tradition and their unique experience.

Best Place to try out: Local Food stall of Durbar Square 

Samay Baji 

The Newari culture has several traditional dishes to try. One of them is Samaya Baji, which is served with beaten rice and the company of local Aila or Chynag(rice-white wine) during festivals. The meaning of Samay is time, and Baji means beatan rice, which means celebrating time with loved ones. 

Apart from the beaten rice, the fried-boiled egg, bhuti (black eyes peas curry), spinach, fried aloo, bhatmas (brown or black soybean). 

Best place to try out: Samay Baji The Newa: Restaurant, Kirtipur

Chatamari 

The Newari pancake, also called Chatamari, is a traditional specialty of the Newar community. The batter of rice flour, eggs, and mixed species(chilli powder, cumin powder, and ginger garlic paste) is then fired in a pan and added to an extra topping. 

It is also popular among people in Kathmandu and used as a snack and appetiser in different restaurants. On the other hand, you can also try out meat and egg chatamari as an alternative. 

Best place to try: Any Local Newari restaurant 

Dhindo 

Dhindo comes from the Hilly region of Nepal. It is a porridge made from a bucket of millet flour with a side of curry of your desired vegetables. This simple and hearty meal represents the simple rural lifestyle of Nepalese people. 

But you can add some extra taste by adding meat, curd, and a spicy pickle. It depends on your taste buds. You can also explore the menus of different restaurants, as they have a lot of mixture to offer. 

Best places to try: Nepali Dhido, Paleti Bhanchha Ghar Restaurant & Bar

Sukuti 

Now, meat lovers may find this dish interesting. It is a piece of dried meat, typically from goat or buffalo. It is maintained with spices and then air-dried or sundried. These are used as snacks during drinking or snacking time. 

The drying process helps to increase the flavour, resulting in a chewy delicacy rich in protein. The dish reflects the exceptional value of Nepali cuisine and shows the traditional reservation method. 

The fun part is you can also buy it as it is sold in packets. At the same time, you can try out different restaurants during your meeting with loved ones. 

Mo:Mo

When you come to Nepal, Mo:mo is a must. The Tibetan dumpling is filled with flavourful keema(mix of meat, onion, garlic, and various species) with the touch of tasty marinated soup. 

Even vegetarians can try it out, as the filling is made from cabbage, spinach and paneer. From street food to restaurants, the momo is widely found and is the centrepiece of social celebrations. 

Best Places to Try: Narayan Dai ko Masan Galli ko Mo:mo P. Ltd.

Sel Roti and Aloo Tama 

Now, the combination of sel roti and aloo tama. Sel roti is the traditional round, crispy outside and soft inside bread kind. These are enjoyed during the special occasion and served with yogurt or spicy pickles. 

The next is the aloo tama, a curry made with potatoes and bamboo shoots. It is a unique blend of tangy shoots and potatoes cooked with different spices. The sel roti with the bowl of aloo tama is a comforting dish. 

Best Place to Try Out: Local places should be favoured more to get the aesthetic taste of the food. 

Bhutan(Khasiko Bhutan)

Just like sukuti, khasiko Bhutan is yet another spicy dish made from goats and other digestive parts, such as the liver and kidney. It is cooked with onions, tomatoes, and other spices. 

In Newari cuisine, buffalo's digestive organs are used instead of goats. A major festival like Dashian is a time to enjoy Bhutan along with soft drinks or alcohol.

You can try it out in different restaurants with a combination of beaten rice or any other side dish. 

Keema Noodles 

The thick noodles, with the addition of the keema of the meat, justify the name keema noodles. The food is gaining popularity for its blend of texture and savoury taste. 

The spiced meat of buffalo and chicken cooked with a mix of the species and thick noodles make it a hearty meal. 

Apart from that, it is a popular choice for street food enthusiasts. If you want to try it out, you can visit the street food vendors to get its authentic taste. 

 Juju Dahi

Now, to finally end your food with a sweet dessert, the Juju Dahi. It is also called the "King Curd" due to its creamy mixture and sweet taste. It is made from whole milk and fermented to get a smooth consistency. Mostly found in the streets of Bhaktapur and Basantapur Durbar Square, it is a luxurious treat for refreshment. 

After a hearty meal, the delicious taste of the JuJu Dahi can give you the perfect taste of traditional Nepali sweetness.  

To wrap up, Nepal, a small landlocked country, has plenty of food you can try. These dishes reflect the cultural heritage and culinary traditions of the local people. Whether you are vegetarian or non-veg, there is an array of options for you to explore. 

Remember, some of these foods can be spicy, so ensure you know your spice limit. Take a small bite and also communicate your dietary restrictions when ordering food.

If you are interested in making your next trip to Nepal. then feel free to contact Nepal Vision Trek for expert guidance. 

 

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