
KoreanIndian Masala Momos
Servings: 4 (makes about 2025 momos)
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients
For the Dough:
1 cup allpurpose flour (maida)
1/4 tsp salt
1 tsp gochujang (Korean red chili paste) – for a subtle spicy kick and color
Water, as needed (about 1/3 cup)
For the Filling:
200g minced chicken (or paneer/tofu for vegetarian option)
1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage (common in Korean cuisine)
1/4 cup finely chopped kimchi (drained and squeezed to remove excess liquid)
1 tbsp gingergarlic paste (Indian staple)
1 tsp garam masala (Indian spice blend)
1 tsp gochugaru (Korean red chili flakes) – adjust for spice level
1 tbsp soy sauce (Korean influence)
1 tsp sesame oil (Korean touch)
1 tsp chaat masala (Indian tangy spice)
2 tbsp finely chopped spring onions
Salt to taste
For the Dipping Sauce:
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp Korean rice vinegar (or regular vinegar)
1 tsp sesame seeds (toasted)
1 tsp honey
1 tsp red chili powder (Indianstyle)
1/2 tsp grated ginger
1 tbsp chopped coriander leaves (Indian garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and gochujang.
- Gradually add water and knead into a smooth, firm dough (about 57 minutes).
- Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 20 minutes while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- In a large bowl, mix the minced chicken (or paneer/tofu), cabbage, kimchi, gingergarlic paste, garam masala, gochugaru, soy sauce, sesame oil, chaat masala, and spring onions.
- Stir well until all ingredients are evenly combined. Taste and adjust salt (kimchi and soy sauce are salty, so add sparingly).
- Set aside to marinate while you roll out the dough.
Step 3: Shape the Momos
- Divide the dough into small, equalsized balls (about the size of a large marble).
- Roll each ball into a thin, round wrapper (34 inches in diameter) using a rolling pin. Dust with flour to prevent sticking.
- Place 12 tsp of filling in the center of each wrapper.
- Fold the edges to seal the momo—either in a halfmoon shape or a pleated round shape, pinching tightly to secure the filling.
Step 4: Cook the Momos
Steaming (Traditional Method): Place the momos in a greased steamer basket, ensuring they don’t touch each other. Steam over boiling water for 1012 minutes until the dough is cooked and slightly translucent.
PanFrying (KoreanIndian Twist): Heat 1 tbsp oil in a nonstick pan. Place the momos in a single layer, fry for 23 minutes until the bottoms are golden, then add 1/4 cup water, cover, and steam for 57 minutes until cooked through.
Step 5: Prepare the Dipping Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame seeds, honey, red chili powder, grated ginger, and chopped coriander.
- Adjust seasoning to taste and set aside.
Step 6: Serve
Arrange the hot momos on a plate, garnish with extra spring onions or coriander if desired, and serve with the dipping sauce on the side.
Flavor Notes
Korean Elements: Kimchi, gochujang, gochugaru, soy sauce, and sesame oil bring fermented, spicy, and nutty flavors.
Indian Elements: Garam masala, chaat masala, gingergarlic paste, and coriander add warmth, tanginess, and aromatic depth.
The fusion creates a spicy, savory, and slightly tangy momo that’s a delightful crosscultural treat!
Enjoy your KoreanIndian Masala Momos! Let me know if you’d like tweaks or a vegetarian version with more details.