Welcome to Nepal, where the mountains are tall and the people are small (compared to the mountains, of course). Nepal is home to the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest, and some of the world’s lowest WiFi signals. In Nepal, the cows are sacred, the traffic is chaotic, and the momos are delicious. However, you might also encounter some peculiar aspects of Nepali culture, such as the rampant corruption that can make even the most honest person turn to bribery just to get things done. And let’s not forget the unstable politics, where it seems like every few years there’s a new prime minister and a new set of problems. But hey, at least we have a good sense of humor about it all! Just be sure to bring your hiking boots, your appetite for adventure, and your extra cash for when the power goes out and the ATMs stop working. Welcome to Nepal!

Food Culture

In Nepal, there’s a popular saying that goes, “Nepali ho, sabai bhanda mitho” which translates to “I am Nepali, the sweetest of all.” While this may not always be entirely true (especially if you’ve tasted some of the spicier dishes!), it speaks to the Nepali people’s love for their culture and their pride in everything they do. And if you’ve ever been to a Nepali wedding, you know that the “sweetness” extends to the desserts, which are often piled high with syrup, sugar, and other sugary delights. So if you’re ever in Nepal, be sure to bring your sweet tooth!

Cuisines

Nepali cuisine is like a fusion of different flavours and textures that will leave your taste buds confused yet satisfied. It’s like trying to navigate through a maze of spices, herbs, and vegetables, and finally reaching the delicious pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. If you’re feeling adventurous, try some momos, the Nepali version of dumplings that will make you forget all about those sad little frozen ones from the grocery store. Just be warned, once you start eating Nepali food, there’s no turning back. It’s a delicious addiction that will have you coming back for more!

List of popular dishes

• Momos – Steamed or fried dumplings filled with vegetables, meat or cheese, and served with a spicy tomato sauce.
• Dal Bhat – The staple food of Nepal, consisting of lentil soup, rice, and vegetables.
• Aloo Tama – A sour and spicy curry made with bamboo shoots, potatoes, and black-eyed peas.
• Sel Roti – A sweet and crispy deep-fried bread made from rice flour and sugar, often served during festivals.
• Choyla – A spicy marinated meat dish, typically made with chicken, goat, or buffalo.
• Samosas – Triangular-shaped pastries filled with spiced vegetables or meat, similar to the Indian version.
• Thukpa – A hearty noodle soup with vegetables, meat, and sometimes egg, commonly eaten in the mountainous regions of Nepal.
• Chatamari – A Nepali-style pizza made with a rice flour base and topped with vegetables, meat, or eggs.
• Kwati – A flavorful mixed bean soup with various spices and herbs, often served during the festival of Janai Purnima.
• Gundruk – A traditional Nepali fermented leafy green vegetable, usually served as a side dish or in soups.