Siddu(Himachali momo's)

Siddu is one of the most popular dish of himachal cuisine and was initially eaten in mandi,rohru,shimla and kullu manali districts of himachal pradesh only but with the advent of time it became famous in other districts as well and is now relished in entire state.

Siddu is prepared mainly with the help of wheat flour and yeast and stuffing varies according to taste of individual ,like at my home we prefer the stuffing of either lentil or peas and potato but some people prefer stuffing of potato and poppy seeds.

Dough is prepared by adding yeast and the dough preparation alone lasts for about 5-6 hours, next stuffing is done in same way as momo's stuffing is done and the raw Siddu are placed in steam conatiner,yes the same ones used in preparing momos,first a layer of walnut leaves is placed, next a layer of fresh coriander is placed over it and then siddu are placed.This addition of walnut leaves and coriander gives siddu a nice aroma.The siddu are enjoyed with ghee(clarified butter) or green chutney.

Health benefits:Whole wheat is used for siddu preparation which is high in nutrients and rich in fiber, lowersrisk of stroke and obesity.Poppy seeds helps in reducing anxiety and exhaustion.walnut leaves avoids diarrhea,Intestinal worms and acts as blood purifying agent.

So next time when you visit himachal please make sure to try this excellent and tasty dish of our cuisine.

stay healthy,stay safe....