Most Nepal recipes are organised around a simple question: what will go with the rice and lentils? Dal bhat tarkari—steamed rice, a thin lentil soup, vegetable curry, and a spoonful of achar pickle on a metal tray—is described again and again as the everyday meal, often eaten twice a day in homes across the country. Writers who spend time in Nepali kitchens talk about pressure cookers hissing in the morning as lentils simmer and vegetables fry in spiced oil, because this one combination has to carry farmers, students, and trekkers through a long day. 25 Easy Nepal Recipes starts from that plate and then builds outward, keeping the focus on dishes that match this straightforward, repeatable rhythm.
Several of the recipes in 25 Easy Nepal Recipes stay close to that dal bhat base. You will see different dals made from yellow or red lentils, simple vegetable tarkari, leafy saag, and side dishes using potatoes, cauliflower, chickpeas, or spinach taken directly from lists of common home curries. Everyday specials such as aloo tama (potato and bamboo shoot curry) and gundruk dishes using fermented leafy greens appear often in guides to Nepali food and give you a taste of what families cook when there is a little more time. The “easy” part comes from the method: most of these recipes can be done in one pot plus a rice cooker or pressure cooker, using basic frying and simmering rather than restaurant techniques.
25 Easy Nepal Recipes also pulls in the street and snack foods that cooking schools and local guides highlight. Momos—dumplings filled with meat or vegetables and either steamed, fried, or served in broth—are repeatedly described as one of Nepal’s most popular foods, sold from Kathmandu street stalls to mountain tea houses. Thukpa noodle soup, chow mein-style fried noodles, and sel roti, the ring-shaped deep-fried rice bread eaten especially at Dashain and Tihar, show how noodles and festival breads fit into everyday eating. A few Newari items—such as bara lentil cakes, yomari sweet rice dumplings, and small snack platters inspired by samay baji—reflect what many travellers first encounter in Kathmandu’s older neighbourhoods and in cooking-class menus.
Taken together, the dishes behind 25 Easy Nepal Recipes let you build Nepali-style days at home without complicated gear. On a busy night you might put rice in the cooker, pressure-cook a quick dal, and fry one vegetable curry. On weekends you can add momos, thukpa, or a batch of sel roti and turn it into a fuller spread. The recipes are chosen because Nepali sources describe them as everyday staples—rice-and-dal plates, simple curries, dumplings, noodles, and festival breads that rely on steady heat, a couple of pots, and ingredients most supermarkets or South Asian shops already carry.
25 Easy Nepal Recipes
1. Dahl Bhat Nepal Recipe
Dahl Bhat is widely recognized as the national dish of Nepal and is a staple in Nepal food. It consists of two main components: steamed rice bhat and lentil soup dahl. The lentils are typically boiled with turmeric and salt, then tempered with garlic, onions, and spices like cumin, coriander, and mustard seeds for extra flavor. The rice is cooked separately until soft and fluffy. In many variations, the dish is served with side dishes such as sautéed greens, pickled vegetables, and sometimes meat, enhancing its taste and nutritional value. Dahl Bhat is a primary meal found in the Nepal food market and is one of the most widely prepared Nepal recipes.
2. Pani Puri Nepal Recipe
Pani Puri is a popular street food widely available in the Nepal food market, featuring crispy, hollow puris filled with spiced water pani, mashed potatoes, chickpeas, and tamarind chutney. This dish is an essential part of Nepal food and is appreciated for its bold flavors and crunchy textures. The puris are made using wheat flour, rolled thin, and fried until they puff up. The spiced water, which gives Pani Puri its distinctive taste, is made using tamarind, mint, coriander, black salt, and various spices, creating a tangy and spicy flavor. Among Nepal recipes, Pani Puri stands out as a beloved snack that offers a mix of different flavors in one bite.
3. Wai Wai Noodles Nepal Recipe
Wai Wai Noodles are a widely consumed instant noodle brand in Nepal food and can be eaten straight from the packet or cooked in a variety of ways. Unlike other instant noodles, Wai Wai comes pre-seasoned and pre-fried, which gives it a distinct taste even before any additional preparation. Found in nearly every Nepal food market, these noodles are a convenient meal option for many. One of the most common Nepal recipes involves stir-frying them with vegetables, soy sauce, chili, and sometimes eggs or meat for added protein. The noodles can also be boiled into soups with different spice blends for a warm and flavorful dish.
4. Nepal Gundruk Recipe
Gundruk is a fermented leafy vegetable dish that is widely consumed in Nepal food and is commonly found in the Nepal food market. It is made by fermenting mustard, radish, or cauliflower leaves, which are then dried and stored for future use. This fermentation process gives Gundruk a tangy and slightly sour taste, making it a distinctive addition to many Nepal recipes. To prepare the dish, the dried leaves are soaked in water, then sautéed or boiled with garlic, onions, tomatoes, and spices like cumin and turmeric. Gundruk is often served as a side dish with rice or included in stews and soups for added flavor.
5. Nepalese Red Lentil Dahl Recipe
Red Lentil Dahl is a widely prepared dish in Nepal food and is one of the most common Nepal recipes. Made from red lentils, it is a protein-rich soup that is typically seasoned with garlic, ginger, turmeric, cumin, and coriander. The lentils are boiled until soft and then blended with sautéed spices and onions to create a flavorful, thick soup. The dish is often served with steamed rice or flatbreads and can be found in homes and eateries throughout the country. While it is not the national dish of Nepal, it is a significant part of everyday meals.
6. Nepalese Potato Salad Recipe
Nepal Potato Salad, known locally as Aloo Sadeko, is a flavorful, spiced potato dish commonly found in Nepal food. Unlike Western-style potato salads, this version is made with boiled potatoes that are tossed with mustard oil, fresh herbs, and spices like turmeric, cumin, coriander, and chili powder. The salad is usually garnished with green onions, sesame seeds, and lemon juice for added taste. As one of the most popular Nepal recipes, it is served as a side dish or a light snack and can be found in homes and the Nepal food market.
7. Nepal Lamb Sekuwa Recipe
Nepal Lamb Sekuwa is a grilled meat dish that is a popular part of Nepal food and can be found in the Nepal food market as well as home kitchens. The dish consists of marinated lamb pieces that are skewered and cooked over an open flame or charcoal grill. The marinade typically includes a blend of yogurt, garlic, ginger, cumin, coriander, and mustard oil, which enhances the meat’s tenderness and flavor. As one of the most well-known Nepal recipes, Lamb Sekuwa is often served with flatbreads, fresh salads, or pickled vegetables.
8. Nepal Mutton Curry Recipe
Nepal Mutton Curry is a slow-cooked meat dish that is widely prepared in Nepal food and can be found in the Nepal food market. This dish consists of bone-in mutton pieces simmered in a thick gravy made from tomatoes, onions, garlic, ginger, and a blend of spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. The slow-cooking process allows the flavors to deepen and the meat to become tender. Among many Nepal recipes, this dish stands out for its rich taste and aromatic spice combination.
9.Nepal Aaaloo Ko Achar Recipe
Nepal Aloo Ko Achar is a spiced potato pickle that is commonly served as a side dish in Nepal food. It consists of boiled potatoes mixed with mustard oil, turmeric, roasted sesame seeds, chili powder, garlic, and fenugreek seeds. This dish is known for its tangy, slightly spicy, and nutty flavor, making it a popular accompaniment to rice, flatbreads, or snacks. It is widely available in the Nepal food market and is an essential part of many Nepal recipes.
10. Nepal Chicken Noodle Soup Recipe
Nepal Chicken Noodle Soup is a comforting dish commonly found in Nepal food. This soup is made with shredded chicken, handmade or store-bought noodles, and a broth flavored with garlic, ginger, onions, and aromatic spices such as cumin, turmeric, and Sichuan pepper. It is often served as a nourishing meal, especially during colder months. Many Nepal recipes for Chicken Noodle Soup also include vegetables such as carrots, green onions, and leafy greens for additional texture and nutrients.
11. Nepal Vegetable Pulao Recipe
Nepal Vegetable Pulao is a spiced rice dish that is commonly prepared in Nepal food and sold in the Nepal food market. It consists of fragrant basmati rice cooked with a mixture of vegetables such as peas, carrots, potatoes, and green beans. The dish is seasoned with spices like cumin, bay leaves, cardamom, and turmeric, giving it a distinct aroma and color. As one of the popular Nepal recipes, Vegetable Pulao is often served with yogurt, pickles, or lentil soup.
12. Nepal Goat Curry Recipe
Nepal Goat Curry is a rich, flavorful dish commonly enjoyed in Nepal food. This dish features tender goat meat that is slow-cooked in a thick gravy made with onions, tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and a variety of spices such as cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala. The slow cooking process ensures that the meat becomes soft and absorbs the deep flavors of the spices. While not the national dish of Nepal, Goat Curry is an essential part of many Nepal recipes, especially during special occasions and celebrations.
13. Nepal Dal Bhat Recipe
Nepal Dal Bhat is a traditional and essential dish in Nepal food, typically eaten for lunch or dinner. This meal consists of steamed rice bhat served with lentil soup dal, along with a variety of side dishes such as pickles, vegetables, or meat curries. Dal Bhat is the most commonly consumed meal in Nepal and is a cornerstone of Nepal recipes. Though it is not the national dish of Nepal, it remains a central part of daily life and a comfort food for many.
14. Nepal Momo Chutney Recipe
Nepal Momo Chutney is a flavorful dipping sauce typically served with momos, the popular Nepali dumplings. Nepal food features a variety of chutneys, but momo chutney is one of the most commonly prepared side condiments. It is made from tomatoes, garlic, ginger, and red chili, providing a tangy, spicy kick to complement the mild flavor of the dumplings. The chutney often includes spices like cumin and coriander, and sometimes a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to balance the heat. While momo is a favorite in Nepali cuisine, the Nepal food market offers different variations of momo chutney, allowing consumers to experience various flavor profiles.
15. Nepal Slow Cooker Goat Curry Recipe
Nepal Slow Cooker Goat Curry is a modern take on the traditional Nepal food dish. By using a slow cooker, this recipe simplifies the preparation of the classic goat curry while still delivering the same rich, complex flavors. The slow cooking process allows the goat meat to become tender and absorb the full depth of spices like turmeric, cumin, coriander, and garam masala. This recipe follows many Nepal recipes for Goat Curry but requires less hands-on time, making it a convenient option for busy cooks.
16. Nepal Paneer Curry Recipe
Nepal Paneer Curry is a beloved dish in Nepali cuisine, offering a hearty, flavorful curry featuring paneer, the popular Indian cheese. This dish is often part of the wider array of Nepal food, where paneer is used in various vegetarian dishes. The curry is made by cooking cubes of paneer in a rich gravy of tomatoes, onions, garlic, ginger, and a blend of spices, such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Although not the national dish of Nepal, paneer curry is a staple in Nepali homes and is often paired with rice or flatbreads like roti or naan.
17. Nepal Chicken Dumplings Recipe
Nepal Chicken Dumplings, also known as momo, are a popular and flavorful snack or meal in Nepali cuisine. These dumplings are filled with ground chicken mixed with spices, onions, and herbs, then steamed or fried for a delicious, tender bite. Nepal food features many varieties of momos, but chicken dumplings are especially loved due to their juicy filling and savory taste. While not the national dish of Nepal, momos hold an important place in Nepali street food culture, often served with a side of spicy chutney.
18. Nepal Chicken Curry Recipe
Nepal Chicken Curry is a classic Nepali dish, known for its rich, flavorful gravy and tender pieces of chicken. The curry is made by simmering chicken in a mixture of spices, onions, garlic, ginger, and tomatoes, creating a fragrant sauce. Common spices used in this dish include cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala, which together bring a perfect balance of heat and aromatic flavor. While not the national dish of Nepal, chicken curry is an everyday favorite and a staple in many Nepal recipes.
19. Nepali Kwati Daal Recipe
Nepali Kwati Daal is a hearty, nutritious soup made from a variety of sprouted legumes, giving it a unique texture and rich flavor. This dish is a staple in Nepali cuisine and is often enjoyed during festivals, celebrations, or as a part of a nutritious meal. Kwati, meaning mixed soup, is made by combining beans and lentils, which are sprouted to enhance their flavor and nutritional value. While not the national dish of Nepal, Kwati Daal is a traditional favorite that showcases the vibrant flavors of Nepal food.
20. Nepal Sukuti Sadheko Recipe
Nepal Sukuti Sadheko is a traditional Nepali dish featuring dried and spiced meat, often served as a snack or side dish. Sukuti, meaning dried meat, is typically made from buffalo or goat meat, which is marinated in a blend of spices and then dried. The dried meat is then sautéed or fried with onions, garlic, ginger, and a mix of spices such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric to enhance the flavor. While not the national dish of Nepal, Sukuti Sadheko is a popular dish found in many Nepal food markets and homes across the country.
21. Nepal Newari Buff Choila Recipe
Nepal Newari Buff Choila is a spicy, flavorful dish from the Newar community, typically made with buffalo meat. This dish is a staple of Newar cuisine and is often served during festivals or celebrations. The meat is marinated with a mix of spices, including cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garlic, before being grilled to perfection. After grilling, it is typically tossed with onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and chili, giving it a fresh and aromatic finish. While it is not the national dish of Nepal, Newari Buff Choila is considered one of the more iconic and beloved dishes in Nepali food culture.
22. Nepal Aloo Dum Recipe
Nepal Aloo Dum is a simple yet flavorful dish made from potatoes cooked in a spiced gravy. The potatoes are simmered in a sauce made with onions, tomatoes, garlic, ginger, and a blend of spices such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric. This vegetarian dish is a popular choice in Nepali households and can be found in many Nepal food markets. Although it is not considered the national dish of Nepal, Aloo Dum is an essential part of many Nepal recipes, especially during festivals and family gatherings.
23. Nepal Paneer Matar Curry Recipe
Nepal Paneer Matar Curry is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring paneer Indian cheese and peas matar, cooked in a spiced tomato-based gravy. The dish combines the soft texture of paneer with the sweetness of peas, all wrapped in a rich, aromatic sauce made from tomatoes, onions, garlic, and ginger. Spices like cumin, coriander, and garam masala bring warmth and depth to the curry. While not the national dish of Nepal, Paneer Matar Curry is a common dish in Nepali homes and a favorite in many Nepal food markets.
24. Nepal Sel Roti Recipe
Nepal Sel Roti is a traditional, ring-shaped, deep-fried rice doughnut made from rice flour, sugar, and a blend of spices. It is a popular snack or breakfast item, often enjoyed during festivals, especially during the Tihar festival. The dough is made by mixing rice flour with water, sugar, and cardamom, giving it a slight sweetness and fragrant aroma. The dough is then shaped into a ring and deep-fried until golden brown and crispy on the outside, with a soft and chewy texture on the inside. While not the national dish of Nepal, Sel Roti holds a significant place in Nepali food culture, often served with yogurt or pickles.
25. Nepal Yomari Recipe
Nepal Yomari is a unique steamed dumpling filled with a sweet or savory filling, often made from jaggery and sesame seeds, or occasionally with a mixture of vegetables or meat. The dough for Yomari is made from rice flour, giving it a soft, chewy texture once steamed. The dumplings are shaped by hand and filled with the chosen filling before being steamed until fully cooked. Yomari is particularly associated with the Newar community and is a staple during the festival of Yomari Punhi. Though it is not the national dish of Nepal, it is an important part of Nepal food culture and widely enjoyed by locals.