Nepali meals do not always end with dessert. A Thakali set is filling enough that many people finish with a glass of water and a satisfied sigh. But Nepal does have sweets worth saving room for.
What is khuwa?
Khuwa (also spelled khoa) is milk that has been simmered slowly in a wide pan until almost all the water has evaporated. What is left is a soft, rich, slightly grainy milk solid. It is the base of many South Asian sweets.
Khuwa momo
Take the familiar momo wrapper, fill it with sweetened khuwa, and steam or fry it. The result is a warm, milky, gently sweet dumpling. It is comforting rather than sugary, which makes it a good way to end a spicy meal.
At Thulo Thakali, Khuwa Momo are on our dessert menu, alongside Chocolate Momo for anyone who wants something more indulgent.
Other Nepali sweets to look for
Sel roti
The ring-shaped rice bread of Tihar. Slightly sweet and best eaten fresh. Read more in our piece on Tihar food.
Juju dhau
"King of yoghurt", a rich, thick, sweet yoghurt from Bhaktapur, traditionally set in clay pots.
Lalmohan and rasbari
Soft milk dumplings soaked in syrup, popular at weddings and celebrations.
Yomari
A Newar sweet made of rice flour dough filled with molasses and sesame, eaten during the Yomari Punhi festival in winter.
How to finish a Thakali meal
If you are too full for a whole plate, order one plate of khuwa momo for the table and share. Two or three each is plenty.
See our full menu or book a table for your next meal out.
