1. Momo Varieties: Momo is a popular dish in Nepal, and Newari cuisine offers a variety of momo fillings and preparations. Some unique Newari momo types include Yomari (a sweet, steamed momo), Bara (a lentil-based, deep-fried snack), and Kwati (a mixed bean soup often served with momo).
2. Newari Spices: Newari cuisine features a rich blend of spices and seasonings, including timur (Sichuan pepper), jimbu (a dried herb with a unique flavor), fenugreek, and mustard seeds. These spices are used to create distinct flavors in many dishes.
3. Fermented Foods: Fermented foods are prevalent in Newari cuisine. Examples include Gundruk (fermented leafy greens), various types of achar (pickles), and alcohol like the traditional Newari rice wine called "Aila."
4. Samay Baji: Samay Baji is a traditional Newari platter often served during festivals and celebrations. It includes a combination of beaten rice (baji), various accompaniments like boiled eggs, fried fish, buffalo meat, and yogurt. It's considered a symbol of Newari hospitality and culture.
5. Vegetable and Lentil Dishes: Newari cuisine offers a wide range of vegetable and lentil dishes, often with unique flavor profiles due to the use of traditional spices and cooking methods. Examples include Tama (fermented bamboo shoot curry) and Hakuchoila (black-eyed pea salad).
6. Street Food: The streets of Kathmandu are lined with street vendors selling Newari street food, such as Choila (spicy grilled buffalo meat), Bara (lentil patties), and Woh (a type of crispy doughnut). These dishes are popular snacks or appetizers.
7. Special Occasion Foods: Newar cuisine features special dishes for different occasions. For instance, during New Year celebrations (Nepal Sambat), special foods like Samay Baji and Yomari are prepared.
8. Community Traditions: Many Newari dishes are linked to community rituals and traditions. Food holds a significant place in Newar ceremonies, such as marriage rituals, New Year celebrations, and festivals.
9. Jwo (Ghee): Ghee, also known as "Jwo" in Nepal Bhasa, is used extensively in Newari cuisine for its rich flavor and aromatic quality. It's used for frying, seasoning, and enhancing the flavors of various dishes.
10. Teas and Beverages: Newari cuisine also offers a variety of traditional teas and beverages, including varieties of herbal tea and the traditional rice-based alcoholic beverage called "Aila."
Where to buy foods to make good newari cuisines?