Celebrating Himalayan Dumplings at Jackson Heights

dumplingPhoto byMatthieu JoannononUnsplash

The 12th annual Momo Crawl in Jackson Heights celebrates the beloved Himalayan dumpling, momos, from Tibet, Nepal, Bhutan, and parts of India. These delectable dumplings come in various forms such as steamed, fried, or in soup, stuffed with options like beef, goat, or potato, and seasoned with soy sauce or ginger. This year, 24 vendors from the Himalayan community will showcase their momo creations, with attendees having the chance to vote for their favorite.

Started with only 30 attendees in 2012, the crawl has grown significantly, with last year's event drawing a crowd of 2,000 even in rainy weather. The event has not only increased in popularity but has also boosted business for vendors like Tsering Rabgyal, owner of Om Wok, who credits the crawl for expanding their fan base beyond the local community.

The Momo Crawl's success reflects the rising interest in Himalayan cuisine in New York City, seen in the increasing number of Himalayan restaurants across the boroughs. The event not only highlights the diversity of momos but also serves as a gateway for attendees to explore the broader range of Himalayan culinary offerings. The Momo Crawl has become a beloved tradition in Jackson Heights, bringing together food enthusiasts and celebrating the rich culinary heritage of the Himalayan region. This event not only showcases the delicious variety of momos but also fosters community support for local vendors, highlighting their culinary skills and unique creations. As the event continues to grow and attract more attendees each year, it serves as a cultural bridge, introducing New Yorkers to the flavors and traditions of Tibet, Nepal, Bhutan, and beyond.

Beyond the delightful taste of momos, the Momo Crawl symbolizes the power of food to unite people from different backgrounds and spark curiosity about diverse cuisines. With the success of this annual event, it's clear that the appetite for Himalayan cuisine is on the rise in New York City, offering a flavorful journey for food lovers to explore and appreciate the rich tapestry of flavors and culinary traditions from the Himalayan region.

Source:

https://gothamist.com/arts-entertainment/for-some-dumpling-fans-sundays-momo-crawl-is-the-best-day-of-the-year