Winter in Nepal brings crisp mornings, foggy evenings, and a natural craving for food that feels warm, nourishing, and comforting. As temperatures drop, our kitchens turn into spaces of slow cooking, simmering soups, and traditional ingredients that provide both heat and health.

Here are easy winter food recipes that are perfect for cold days: rooted in Nepali tradition, simple to prepare, and ideal for home cooking.

Gundruk Ko Jhol: A Classic Winter Warmer

Gundruk, a fermented leafy green staple in Nepali households, is especially popular in winter for its digestive and immunity-boosting properties.

Ingredients:

• Gundruk – 1 cup (soaked and rinsed)
• Onion – 1 small, sliced
• Tomato – 1 medium, chopped
• Garlic – 3 cloves, crushed
• Turmeric – ½ teaspoon
• Dried chili or timur – to taste
• Mustard oil – 1 tablespoon
• Water – 3 cups
• Salt – to taste

Method:
Heat mustard oil in a pot and saute onion and garlic until aromatic. Add tomato, turmeric, and chili, and cook until soft. Add gundruk and water, then simmer for about 15 minutes. Adjust salt and serve hot with rice or dhido.

Homemade Vegetable Thukpa for Cold Evenings

Thukpa is one of the most comforting winter dishes, especially popular during chilly nights.

Ingredients:

• Boiled noodles – 1 cup
• Mixed vegetables (carrot, cabbage, beans)
• Garlic and ginger paste – 1 tablespoon
• Vegetable or chicken stock – 3 cups
• Soy sauce – 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
• Oil – 1 tablespoon
• Salt – to taste

Method:
Heat oil in a pot and saute garlic and ginger. Add vegetables and stir-fry briefly. Pour in stock, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Add noodles and simmer for 5 minutes. Garnish with spring onion and serve warm.

Til Ko Laddu: A Winter Energy Booster

Sesame seeds and jaggery are winter essentials in Nepali households, providing warmth and sustained energy.

Ingredients:

• Sesame seeds (til) – 1 cup
• Jaggery – ¾ cup
• Ghee – 1 tablespoon

Method:
Dry roast sesame seeds until fragrant. Melt jaggery with ghee on low heat. Mix in sesame seeds thoroughly. While still warm, shape into small laddus and let them cool.

Kodo Ko Dhido: A Traditional Winter Staple

Dhido made from finger millet is rich in fiber and iron, making it a popular winter meal in many parts of Nepal.

Ingredients:

• Kodo flour – 1 cup
• Water – 2½ cups
• Salt – a pinch

Method:
Bring water to a boil with salt. Gradually add kodo flour while stirring continuously. Cook until thick and smooth. Serve hot with saag, gundruk, or meat curry.

Winter food is not just about staying full, it’s about staying warm, healthy, and connected to seasonal traditions. These easy Nepali winter recipes bring together comfort, nutrition, and familiar flavors that make cold days more enjoyable.

For more seasonal lifestyle content, food stories, and culture-driven features, stay tuned to The Buzz Nepal.

Also Read

“Gobar Ganesh” Official Releases Trailer and Airing Date

“Mero Hajura” From the world of “Radha”Out Now: Swoopna Suman’s Soulful New Music Video

Otaku Jatra Announces Its 2025 Winners at a Lively Wrap-Up Party in Kathmandu

Darling Maeju Premiere: Preezol Nepali’s New Nepal Bhasa Song

8 Simple Relaxing Activities to Do at Home