Best Nepali Foods to Try on the Manaslu Circuit Trekking

2 Nov 2023 Chandra Gurung

Best Nepali Foods to Eat on Manaslu Circuit Trek

Manaslu Circuit Trek is a journey to breathtaking landscapes along with some delectable flavors. As you head towards the Manaslu Conservation Area, you will be served some of the unique blends of Nepali and Tibetan dishes that hold authenticity and reflect the culture of Nepal and Tibetan influence upon it. From the earthy Dal Bhat to the tantalizing Momos, Nepal has every array of culinary experiences that are presented to you during your Manaslu Circuit Trek.

Manaslu Circuit Trek is challenging and demands physical strength. Thus, the local food will provide you with the energy you need to head forward. Food is an integral part of cultural immersion, thus by sampling the traditional dishes during the trek, you will be able to gain a deeper understanding of people, their culture, and their way of life.

What to Eat in the Manaslu Circuit Trek?

If you are willing to try these exquisite dishes and culinary delights, here is a list of some of the best Nepali foods and dishes that are a must-try.

1. Dal Bhat as Best Nepali Foods

‘Dal Bhat Power 24 Hour’ is a phrase used by Nepalese people to highlight the significance of Dal Bhat in terms of its consumption and nutrition. Dal bhat is a commonly consumed food by Nepalese people for lunch and dinner. Dal is a lentil soup, while Bhat is steamed rice with side dishes of vegetable curry along with potatoes, cauliflower squash, and pumpkin. You can also get chicken, yak, and buffalo meat and curry alongside Dal Bhat.

It is a staple food that is also gulped over the Indian subcontinent. The National Dish of Nepal, Dal Bhat, offers simplicity, diversity, and the freshness of the ingredients that give the dish a tasty attribute. Dal Bhat is not just a meal but also a cultural institution in Nepal. Thus, it is one of the best foods in Nepal that you need to try.

2. Apple wine

Nepal is known for its rich and flavorful apples and apple orchards. Areas like Manang, Jumla, and Mustang are recognized for the production of apples.  Apple wine is typically made of fermented apple juice and has a unique and refreshing taste using yeast. Thereafter, the fermented sugar is converted into alcohol. The local humble apples are converted into a spirited and lively drink. 

Local flavors and traditions shape the character of this beverage. As you find yourself in Nepal on a Trek around Manaslu, exploring apple wine will indeed turn out to be a delicious and culturally rich experience.

3. Momo

Momo is a beloved and popular dish in Nepal. These are the delightful little pockets of joy that are typically filled with a mixture of minced meat, such as chicken, buffalo, or pork which is flavored with local spices. For vegetarians, it also comes with the fillings of Paneer and Vegetable. 
Momo is consumed with a dipping sauce such as mint chutney, sesame achar, or tomato achar. This is a versatile dish that is widely consumed for lunch, dinner, and snacks. Some of the most popular types of momos are chicken momo, buffalo momo, vegetable momo, Jhol momo, kothey momo, and prawn momo.

4. Yak Cheese as the Best Nepali Foods

Yak cheese is a traditional food of Nepal, especially consumed in the Himalayan region. Yak cheese is a type of cheese made from the milk of yaks. Yak is a long-haired bovine native to the high altitudes of Central Asia. A yak meal is high in fat and full of protein. It is recognized for its nutty flavor and chewy texture. 

Being a source of calcium and phosphorus, yak cheese is low in lactose, which makes it perfect to be consumed by lactose-intolerant people. It is gluten-free and grain-free and is eaten in a variety of ways. Chauri ko Chhurpi

5. Dhido

Dhido is a Nepali food that holds a special place in the hearts of Nepalese. Dhido is not exactly a Halwa but is made by pouring hot, boiling water into buckwheat, millet, or corn flour. It is a staple food that is consumed in many parts of Nepal. The mixture of dhido is cooked until it forms a thick paste or mush.

It is served with a side dish of potato mash, tomato or sesame chutney, and achar. Some people prefer it with yogurt sauce or a side of rice. It holds further cultural significance in Nepal, which is a must-try for anyone who is visiting Nepal and is eager to have a closer view of Nepalese culture and tradition.

6. Thukpa

Thukpa is originally a Tibetan Dish. However, its craze in Nepal is unmatched. Thukpa has developed itself as a comfort food and is consumed by many. A Nepali-style Thukpa is a sort of cross between chicken noodle soup and a bowl of ramen. It is a flavorful soup that is made with a variety of noodles, vegetables, and meat. 

Thukpa is made with thick, wheat-based noodles, but other types of noodles such as rice or soba noodles. The perfect balance of various vegetables, local spices, and noodles in Thukpa on cold chill days in a nutritious culinary style that will energize you from the inside. It is a delicious dish which is sure to please everyone.

Besides, Thethunk is yet another regional culinary special of the high altitude. Thethunk is the flattened noodles with soup of Himalayan herbs. Buff Thenduk is quite popular in the Manaslu region.

7. Gundruk a Traditional Nepali curry

The leafy green vegetables of saag green with the roots are dried and fermented for days and weeks and more to make it sour and further store it. This is commonly used for soups, curries, and stews. Some might think that Gundruk is stale but the beneficial bacteria of Gundruk cure and improve your gut health. Gundruk ko Jhol  (soup), Gundruk and Bhatmas, and Gundruk ko achar (pickle) are the most common and preferred ways of eating it. 

You cannot miss this food as this is often served with a side of Thakali Khana in Nepal.

8. Sukuti

Sukuti is the non vegetarian version of Gundruk. Here, the meat, usually goat, lamb, or buffalo is cut into thin slices and marinated with spices after which it is dried and kept in the sun for several days or weeks. When it is completely dry, it is pounded into small pieces and stored in a dry container. Sukuti is used as a snack or appetizer and is a good source of protein. It is also a side dish for curries, and stir-fries and is consumed with alcohol as well. 

9. Tongba

While talking about Nepali dishes, we cannot miss Tongba. Tongba is a traditional drink of the Limbu people of eastern Nepal. It is an alcohol-based drink that is made from cooked fermented millet that is combined with a starter and then the grains are mixed with hot water and the resulting drink is thick and milky which is a mild yet pleasant flavor. 

It is served with a side of dishes including Sukuti, yak cheese, and peanuts. This drink further holds health benefits such as a source of antioxidants, and good for digestion.

10. Kheer -Nepali Rice Pudding

Kheer is a creamy dessert that is sweet and is made with rice, milk, sugar, and other spices. Kheer is widely consumed for various occasions and festivals. It is garnished with nuts and dried fruits. It is a Nepali dish that every Nepali has grown up eating. 

Also, Kheer is consumed throughout the Indian subcontinent. Some prefer Kheer chilled while others eat it hot. This is a dessert that can be made quickly using minimal ingredients and is an easy dessert for you to enjoy.

Conclusion

Nepal is rich in its culinary history and the Manaslu Trek is no exception therefore contact Manaslu Guide if you have any queries. You will find a wide range of dishes from exotic Tongba to the staple Dal Bhat and Momo. There is something for everyone as per their preference and taste.

 If you are a foodie like me and also have an adventurous spirit, you can look forward to Manaslu Trek and not forget to try some of such Nepali foods that are available along the way while you also ask for recommendations from the locals. These best Nepali foods will not disappoint you!