Rice
Steamed Calrose Rice Momo

About this dish
A delightful twist on traditional Nepali momo, this recipe uses Calrose rice flour to create a soft, slightly chewy wrapper that pairs beautifully with a spiced chicken or vegetable filling. Steamed to perfection, these momos are served with a tangy tomato achar for a comforting meal that celebrates the flavors of Nepal and the versatility of Calrose rice.
Ingredients
UK and US measurements are both included for every recipe.
Calrose rice flour
grain2 cups (280 g)
Imperial measurement: 2 cups
hot water
liquid1 cup (240 ml)
Imperial measurement: 1 cup
salt
seasoning1/2 teaspoon
ground chicken
protein1 pound (450 g)
Imperial measurement: 1 lb
onion, finely chopped
vegetable1/2 cup (80 g)
Imperial measurement: 1/2 cup
garlic, minced
herb2 tablespoons (about 6 cloves)
Imperial measurement: 2 tablespoons
fresh ginger, minced
herb1 tablespoon (15 g)
Imperial measurement: 1 tablespoon
fresh cilantro, chopped
herb1/4 cup (15 g)
Imperial measurement: 1/4 cup
soy sauce or tamari
seasoning1 tablespoon (15 ml)
Imperial measurement: 1 tablespoon
ground cumin
spice1 teaspoon
ground coriander
spice1 teaspoon
turmeric powder
spice1/2 teaspoon
red chili powder (optional)
spice1/2 teaspoon
vegetable oil
fat1 tablespoon (15 ml)
Imperial measurement: 1 tablespoon
tomato achar
other1/2 cup (120 ml)
Imperial measurement: 1/2 cup
Method
Make the Dough
PT35MIn a large bowl, combine the Calrose rice flour and salt. Gradually add hot water while mixing with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms. When cool enough to handle, knead for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover with a damp cloth and rest for 30 minutes.
Prepare the Filling
PT10MWhile the dough rests, combine ground chicken, onion, garlic, ginger, cilantro, soy sauce, cumin, coriander, turmeric, chili powder (if using), and 1 tablespoon oil in a bowl. Mix well and let marinate for 10 minutes.
Shape the Momos
PT15MDivide the dough into 4 equal portions. Roll each into a log, then cut each log into 6 pieces (24 total). Cover pieces with a damp towel. Roll each piece into a 3-inch (7.5 cm) circle. Place a heaping teaspoon of filling in the center. Fold and pleat to seal. Repeat with remaining dough and filling.
Steam the Momos
PT20MArrange the momos in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper or lightly oiled, leaving space between them. Steam over boiling water for 15–20 minutes, until the wrapper is translucent and filling is cooked through.
Serve
PT1MServe hot with tomato achar or your favorite dipping sauce.
Equipment
- large mixing bowl
- steamer basket
- parchment paper
- rolling pin
- damp cloth
Nutrition facts
Tips
- To prevent the dough from drying out, keep it covered with a damp cloth while shaping the momos.
- If you don't have Calrose rice flour, you can grind Calrose rice in a blender to a fine powder.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with finely chopped mushrooms and crumbled paneer.
Serving suggestions
- Serve with a side of tomato achar or a simple sesame-soy dipping sauce. Pair with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
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Recipe by
Sita Thapa
Specialises in Nepalese cuisineSita is a dal bhat specialist. She says the secret is burning the garlic just a little.
Describe yourself in three words: Warm, laughing, generous portions.