The Tibetan Delight

Over the years, momos have become a significant part of an average urban Indian's life. Even though it would probably never replace the traditional staple of rice and pulses, but the white flour dumplings with delicious fillings have definitely made a special place in the hearts of a number of Indians.

A roadside Momo stall in Bangalore, India.

Originally created in Tibet, filled with yak or lamb meat due to the scarcity of vegetables,today, the momo has many varieties to choose from. Even the choice of filling is diverse - meat,fish, cheese, vegetables and even chocolate. Steamed , friend , sauteed or baked , the taste is certainly heavenly. However, one thing which usually escapes our attention is the shape of the Momos. The shape certainly is an important aspect of presentation and appeal for the consumer.

Chocolate momos.

Let us explore a few unconventional ways of wrapping momos which are pleasing both to the eye and the palate.

Three Edged Star
If tasty food came from heaven , then this Momo is definitely the star of it. The soft dough is sealed from the center with three projecting sides. However, if I had things my way, then I would definitely name it three edged shuriken.

Purse
Typically, a purse is supposed to carry money , but some genius decided to stuff it with tasty filling instead. Well, I do not blame him , because unlike momos , money cannot be eaten.

This momo's round dough is bunched up on the top to resemble an open drawstring purse.

Round
People paranoid about their purse momo's fillings spilling out probably sealed the top for that reason. Thus , the momos look essentially round and also adorable .

Rose
Perhaps the most artistic shape of wrapping momos is that resembling a rose. It requires not one but three round rolled out pieces of dough. The filling is arranged evenly in a straight line , spread out on all three pieces and rolled. The 'rose' petals can be slightly opened at the ends to give a more natural look. The end result attracts people to the 'rose' like insects.

Gangri
The Gangri style momos has perhaps one of the most interesting background stories. It originated in the Gangri Sui Mai restaurant in Kathmandu and is shaped like a blooming flower which is sealed in the middle with four open pockets . Over the years, people have imitated this style of wrapping momos ans named it Gangri style momos.

So the next time you try making momos at home, try out these relatively lesser known styles of wrapping momos which are a delight for the stomach as well as the eyes.