The Momo is a type of dumpling native to Tibet. It is similar to Chinese baozi or Japanese gyoza. The dish is believed to be of Tibetan origin and since then has spread to other neighboring countries by Tibetan refugees. Momo is a type of steamed bun with some form of filling. It has become popular in Nepal, Tibet and among Nepalese/Tibetan communities in Bhutan.

The popular types of Momo’s available are Steamed, Fried and Pan Fried. I have fond memories going to the Momo Joints in Suburban Hospital Road with my friends and having great “adda” sessions over steaming hot plates of momo’s and cold drinks to douse ourselves with after binging on the spicy momo sauce that was served with our Momo’s . The Momo has over the years evolved into a great favorite of Kolkata and lots of places serve up Momo’s. One of the nicest however is The Blue Poppy with Branches in Middleton Street, Salt Lake and Lake Town. I recently visited the Salt Lake one and so I thought I would share my experience.

I love the rain and rainy grey days are made for lovely hot Momo’s. A few days back I had to go to Salt Lake for work and hunger pangs struck around lunchtime. I did not want a long drawn out meal and was wondering what to eat when I suddenly passed Sikkim House and The Blue Poppy and I immediately knew what I was going to eat. We walked up to the 1st Floor and seated ourselves … it’s a no frills place … don’t go looking for ambiance but service is warm and with a smile so it more than makes up. We wanted a quick bite so we ordered Steamed Pork Momo’s and Chilly Pork along with Thumbs Up. The food came in good time, fresh and steaming hot and we dug right in. Lovely plump Momo’s with a good amount of well-seasoned minced pork. They have chicken and vegetarian versions as well for those so inclined. The Fiery Red Momo Sauce added the right amount of zing to our dish. Portion sizes are good, eight pieces to a portion. After we are done with our Momo’s we go after the Chilly Pork. Great robust flavors of garlic, chilies and bell peppers. The pork is well done with just the right amount of fat to make it juicy and give the dish texture. Could not find fault and wiped our plates clean. We also packed a Veg Fried Momo to take back for a friend. If you like spicy food their Pan Fried Momo’s are pretty good as well and make for a nice change.

Overall a great experience and what is heartening is that they have maintained their quality I have always walked away content with my meal.

Picture Credits : Suneha Saha