Nepal has a wide variety of dishes influenced by Indian and Tibetan food styles. Food habits differ from region to region, but Newari and Thakali cuisines are considered truly authentic Nepali foods. The most popular meal in Nepal is Dal Bhat, which consists of lentil soup, curry, boiled rice, and pickle. There is a popular saying, “Dal Bhat Power 24 Hour,” highlighting its importance in daily life. Mo:mos are also a very popular snack, especially in urban areas and Himalayan regions, due to Tibetan cultural influence.
Nepalese people usually eat three times a day: meals in the morning and evening, and snacks in the afternoon. Milk tea or black tea is commonly consumed in the morning and during snack time, while coffee is more popular in cities. Nepali food is generally less oily and less spicy compared to neighboring cuisines.
Gundruk and Dheedo are traditional Nepali dishes and are sugar-free. Gundruk is made from fermented leafy vegetables, while Dheedo is prepared from wheat or maize flour. Chatamari, a flatbread made from rice flour with or without meat or vegetable toppings, is popular among the Newar community and is often called “Newari pizza.”
There are two traditional alcoholic drinks in Nepal: Raksi and Tongba. Raksi is a homemade alcoholic drink that plays an important role in the rituals and cultural ceremonies of many ethnic groups, though it is not legally sold in bottled form in markets. Tongba is another traditional drink, especially popular in Limbu culture. It is a homemade millet-based wine, commonly enjoyed during the winter season.