How to Pair Drinks with Nepalese Dishes
Nepalese cuisine is rich in bold spices, hearty flavors, and diverse textures, making it an exciting challenge to find the perfect drink pairing. Whether you’re indulging in spicy momos, a comforting plate of dal bhat, or a fragrant bowl of thukpa, the right beverage can elevate your dining experience. In this guide, we’ll explore the best drink pairings for popular Nepalese dishes.
1. Momos (Nepalese Dumplings) & Herbal Tea
Momos are juicy, flavorful dumplings filled with meat or vegetables, often served with spicy tomato chutney. To balance the heat and richness of momos, a warm herbal tea like masala chai or tulsi tea is an excellent choice. The soothing spices of the tea complement the aromatic fillings while aiding digestion.
Alternative Pairing: A light white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc) or a crisp lager can also work well.
2. Dal Bhat & Lassi
Dal Bhat, a staple Nepalese meal of lentil soup and rice, is best paired with a refreshing lassi—a yogurt-based drink that helps cool down the palate. Sweet or salted lassi works well depending on your taste preference. The probiotics in lassi also aid digestion, making it a perfect match for this wholesome meal.
Alternative Pairing: A mild, wheat-based beer like Hefeweizen or a light-bodied red wine (such as Pinot Noir) complements the earthy lentils.
3. Sekuwa (Nepalese Grilled Meat) & Local Beer
Sekuwa is Nepal’s version of barbecued meat, marinated in spices and grilled over an open flame. The smoky, spiced flavors pair beautifully with Nepalese or Indian beer like Everest or Gorkha. The crispness of the beer cuts through the richness of the grilled meat.
Alternative Pairing: A bold red wine like Shiraz or a smoky whiskey can also enhance the dish’s flavors.
4. Thukpa (Himalayan Noodle Soup) & Green Tea
Thukpa, a warming noodle soup with vegetables and meat, pairs well with green tea. The delicate flavors of green tea cleanse the palate and harmonize with the umami notes of the broth.
Alternative Pairing: A light beer or a dry white wine like Riesling can also complement the dish.
5. Newari Cuisine & Rice Beer (Chyang)
Newari dishes, like Yomari (sweet rice dumplings) or Bara (savory lentil pancakes), are deeply traditional and pair best with Chyang (Nepalese rice beer). This mildly alcoholic drink is slightly sweet and refreshing, balancing the richness of Newari food.
Alternative Pairing: If Chyang is unavailable, a light-bodied sake or a dry cider can be a great alternative.
6. Gorkhali Lamb Curry & Red Wine
Gorkhali lamb is a spicy, slow-cooked curry that pairs beautifully with a full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec. The tannins in red wine balance the spice and enhance the deep flavors of the dish.
Alternative Pairing: A dark beer like Stout or Porter also complements the smoky, spicy flavors.
7. Chatamari (Nepalese Pizza) & Cider
Chatamari, a rice crepe often topped with meat, eggs, and spices, is light yet flavorful. A sparkling cider or a light white wine (such as Chardonnay) complements the crispy texture and savory toppings.
Alternative Pairing: A wheat beer or Prosecco works well for a refreshing contrast.
8. Sel Roti (Sweet Rice Doughnut) & Chai
Sel Roti is a traditional Nepalese deep-fried rice bread that pairs perfectly with masala chai. The warm spices in the tea bring out the sweetness of Sel Roti, making it a comforting pairing.
Alternative Pairing: A sweet dessert wine like Moscato or a light coffee can also be a great choice.
9. Gundruk Soup (Fermented Leafy Greens) & Hot Toddy
Gundruk soup, made from fermented greens, has a tangy and earthy taste that pairs well with a hot toddy (whiskey with honey and lemon). The warmth and slight sweetness of the drink balance the sharp, fermented flavors.
Alternative Pairing: A dry rosé wine or a mild herbal tea also complements the soup well.
10. Juju Dhau (King Yogurt) & Sweet White Wine
Juju Dhau, a creamy and sweet yogurt from Nepal, is best paired with a sweet white wine like Gewürztraminer or a light dessert wine. The floral and fruity notes of the wine enhance the richness of the yogurt.
Alternative Pairing: A mild fruit juice like mango or lychee can also work well.
Final Thoughts
Pairing drinks with Nepalese dishes enhances the overall dining experience by balancing flavors, complementing spices, and improving digestion. Whether you prefer tea, wine, beer, or traditional Nepalese beverages, there’s always a perfect drink to match the rich and diverse flavors of Nepalese cuisine.
The next time you enjoy a meal at Eastbourne Nepalese Spice Ltd., try pairing your dish with one of these beverages for an unforgettable culinary experience!
