Tandoori Chicken Momos
North Indian • Vegetarian
How to Make Tandoori Chicken Momos (Traditional & Healthy Vegetarian Version)
Tandoori Chicken Momos are a delightful North Indian snack that fuses the smoky flavors of classic tandoori masala with the comfort of steamed dumplings. Traditionally, momos are popular in the Himalayan belt, but this North Indian adaptation gives them an aromatic twist with a tandoori marinade, making them a favorite during Indian festivals like Holi and Diwali. While the original dish includes chicken, our recipe uses protein-rich paneer as a vegetarian alternative, ensuring the dish remains both delicious and healthy. The outer covering is made with whole wheat atta instead of refined flour, making these momos a guilt-free treat. The stuffing, marinated in homemade tandoori masala, brings together the zing of ginger, garlic, and spices, offering a burst of flavors with every bite. This snack is perfect for gatherings, tea-time indulgence, or as a special treat for kids. Tandoori Chicken Momos showcase India's love for fusion food, combining street food charm with traditional North Indian spices.
Ingredients(for 4-5 momos per person)
- 1 cup Whole wheat atta (for momo dough)
- 150 grams Paneer (crumbled, as vegetarian chicken substitute)
- 1/4 cup Hung curd (for tandoori marinade)
- 1 tablespoon Ginger-garlic paste (adrak-lahsun paste)
- 2 teaspoons Tandoori masala (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/2 teaspoon Red chilli powder (lal mirch powder, adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon Turmeric powder (haldi)
- 1/2 teaspoon Garam masala (optional for extra flavor) - optional
- to taste Salt (namak)
- 1 teaspoon Mustard oil (sarson ka tel, for marinade)
- 1 small Onion (finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons Coriander leaves (hara dhania, finely chopped)
Instructions
- 1
Prepare the dough by mixing whole wheat atta with a pinch of salt and enough water to form a soft, pliable dough. Cover and rest for 10 minutes.
10 minutes
Resting the dough helps make the momos softer.
- 2
For the stuffing, combine crumbled paneer, hung curd, ginger-garlic paste, tandoori masala, red chilli powder, turmeric, garam masala, salt, mustard oil, chopped onions, and coriander leaves in a bowl. Mix well and let it marinate for 10 minutes.
10 minutes
Marinating enhances the tandoori flavor in the filling.
- 3
Divide the dough into small balls. Roll each ball into a thin circle (about 3 inches in diameter) on a lightly floured surface.
5 minutes
Keep circles thin for best steaming results.
- 4
Place a spoonful of the tandoori paneer filling in the center of each circle. Fold the edges and pleat to seal the momos well.
5 minutes
Seal tightly to prevent filling from leaking during steaming.
Why This Dish is Healthy
By using whole wheat atta instead of maida and swapping chicken for paneer, this recipe becomes lower in saturated fat and calories while retaining protein content. Steaming the momos rather than frying keeps the dish light and nutritious, making it suitable for weight watchers and those seeking healthy Indian snacks. The spices also aid digestion and metabolism.
This vegetarian Tandoori Chicken Momos recipe is loaded with protein from paneer and uses whole wheat atta for the dough, making it rich in fiber and complex carbohydrates. Paneer provides essential amino acids, calcium, and vitamin B12, while the use of minimal oil and natural ingredients keeps the fat content under control. The inclusion of curd adds gut-friendly probiotics, and fresh coriander and onions supply antioxidants and vitamins. This dish is a wholesome snack option that fits well into a balanced diet.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use fresh paneer for the softest filling.
- 💡Tip 2: Rest the dough to make the covering easy to shape and steam.
- 💡Tip 3: For an extra smoky flavor, give the momos a quick charcoal dhungar after steaming.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover steamed momos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Re-steam or lightly pan-roast before serving for best texture.
Best served: Lunch or Snack
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 90.0 kcal |
