The Momo Trail: Journey Through India’s Favorite Snack

If there’s one snack that unites food lovers across India, it’s momos! Hailing from Tibet and Nepal, these dumplings were introduced to India through northeastern states and hilly regions and then gradually spread across the country. Initially enjoyed in smaller, colder pockets of the country, momos have now become a phenomenon! A staple street food, evolving from traditional steamed versions to innovative takes like fried, tandoori, and even chocolate-filled variants! Whether relished on chilly evenings in Darjeeling or as a quick grab-and-go bite in Mumbai, momos have woven themselves into the fabric of Indian snacking culture, reflecting the nation’s love for diverse and adaptable flavours.

By the Numbers – STTEM Insights

The STTEM 2.0 report, built on a groundbreaking framework—SAFETY, TECHNOLOGY, TASTE, EASE, and MOOD (STTEM) — shapes how consumers select products and explores evolving consumer demands while busting myths about frozen snacks.

According to the report, Momos rank among the top 5 most preferred vegetarian and non-vegetarian frozen snacks in India. Here are the key insights

Momos Consumption Trends:

• 26% of Indians prefer non-vegetarian momos.
• 29% favor vegetarian momos.
• 31% of married respondents are leading the momo consumption trend.

Regional Preferences:

• Non-Veg Momos: Kochi leads with 67%, followed by Bangalore with 42%.
• Veg Momos: Bhubaneswar tops the veg momo scene with 51%, while Jaipur and Patna share second place with 46% each.

Regional Momo Varieties: A Flavour Explosion

Momos may have originated in Tibet and Nepal, but India has made them its own. Let’s take a look at how different regions have embraced and enhanced this snack. What’s more, we’ll also give you a short recipe for the most famous sauce/dip of the region, so you can try it out yourself!

Delhi & North India: The streets of Delhi are lined with vendors selling momos alongside fiery red chutney. Tandoori momos, grilled and slathered in spice, are the latest obsession!

DIY: Delhi Special Spicy Red Momo Chutney

• 5-6 dried red chilies (soaked)
• 2 tomatoes (boiled and peeled)
• 4 garlic cloves
• Salt to taste
• Blend all ingredients until smooth. Serve with steaming momos.

DIY Lucknow’s Mint-Coriander Momo Chutney

• 1 cup fresh coriander leaves
• ½ cup fresh mint leaves
• 1 green chili
• 1-inch ginger
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt to taste
• Blend all ingredients until smooth. Adjust lemon juice and salt as needed.

Mumbai & Metros: Fusion is the name of the game – chocolate momos, paneer-stuffed dumplings, and momos with creamy dips take center stage.

DIY: Mumbai’s Creamy Garlic Mayo Momo Dip

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp black pepper
• Mix all ingredients thoroughly. Let sit for 10 minutes before serving.

Kolkata and the Northeast: Known for its love of street food, Kolkata experiments with fusion momos – think cheese-filled or deep-fried versions. Whereas in the Northeast, we get a taste of authenticity – momos served with light soy-based sauces and chili oil, staying true to their roots!

DIY: Momos with Chili Oil Sauce

• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 tbsp red chili flakes
• 1 clove garlic (finely chopped)
• Heat the oil and pour over chili flakes and garlic. Let cool before serving.

The perfect companion: Yummiez Chicken Momos

For those craving momos without the hassle, Yummiez Chicken Momos offers the perfect solution. Pre-steamed and ready to cook, these momos retain the authentic flavour and juicy filling that you’d expect from a street-side stall. Pair them with your favorite sauces or chutneys for an at-home indulgence that satisfies every craving. With Yummiez Chicken Momos, enjoying this beloved delicacy at home has never been easier!

How do you enjoy your Momos? Let us know in the comments below!