Nepal's culinary culture is a vibrant tapestry of flavours and traditions deeply rooted in its rich heritage. The diverse geography and climates of the country have given rise to a wide range of ingredients and dishes. A typical Nepali meal often includes rice or wheat-based staples, accompanied by lentils, vegetables, and a variety of spices. Momos, dumplings stuffed with meat or vegetables, and dal bhat, a combination of lentil soup and rice, are staple dishes.
Dining etiquette in Nepal emphasises communal eating, where sharing food is a common practice, and starting and finishing meals together symbolise unity and togetherness. The influence of Hinduism and Buddhism is evident in dietary restrictions, such as the avoidance of beef by Hindus and the preference for vegetarian options.
There are some basic dining etiquette which are highly valued and should be kept in mind and followed if you’re visiting a Nepali household:
Do Not Use Left Hand
In Nepal, it's customary for people to eat with their hands, primarily using their right hand. This practice extends beyond mere convenience; it reflects cultural values of connection and unity. When dining, individuals scoop and serve themselves using their right hand, taking care not to use the left hand, which is traditionally considered unclean. Sharing food and passing dishes among diners is common, emphasising the sense of togetherness and hospitality. Additionally, starting and finishing the meal together is a sign of unity, and it's important to express appreciation for the meal and the host's generosity.
Do No Offer Beef
Hindus do not eat beef out of veneration for the cow. The whole of Nepal has generally followed suit. While it is usually okay to eat it in front of a Nepali, do not offer beef to them. In Nepal, the majority of the population practises Hinduism, and cows are considered sacred animals in Hindu culture. As a result, beef is strictly avoided by Hindus, and this practice has permeated Nepali society as a whole. While it may be acceptable for foreigners or non-Hindus to consume beef in front of Nepalis, it is important to be mindful and respectful of the local culture and beliefs. Offering beef to a Nepali, especially in a traditional or religious context, would likely be considered highly disrespectful. It's crucial to exercise sensitivity and avoid promoting or serving beef dishes when interacting with Nepali individuals or in situations where cultural and religious traditions are observed. Understanding and respecting these dietary and cultural preferences is an essential aspect of dining etiquette in Nepal.
Start and Finish Together
In Nepal, the "start and finish together" dining etiquette is a deeply ingrained cultural practice that underscores the values of unity and togetherness. When sharing a meal, it is customary for everyone at the table to commence and conclude their dining experience simultaneously. This practice promotes a sense of equality, respect, and communal bonding among diners. It reflects the reverence for elders, as the meal often begins at the behest of the senior-most person present. This communal approach to dining fosters gratitude for the food and the opportunity to share it with others. Overall, this etiquette is a cornerstone of Nepali dining culture, emphasising not only the importance of the meal but also the shared experience of coming together as a community or family.
Eating with Utensils
In Nepal, dining etiquette with utensils can vary depending on the setting and the individual's preference, but it is generally acceptable to use either traditional hand-eating or utensils like forks, knives, and spoons, especially in urban areas and modern restaurants. When using utensils, it is customary to hold them with the right hand while cutting or scooping food. However, in more traditional or rural settings, eating with hands is still quite common and is considered a sign of cultural authenticity. If opting for utensils, it's essential to do so respectfully, avoiding any wasteful behaviour, and maintaining proper hygiene by ensuring that the utensils are clean and well-maintained. Ultimately, whether using utensils or hands, the key to dining etiquette in Nepal lies in respecting the local customs and traditions while enjoying the shared experience of a meal with others.
Accept Seconds
Accepting seconds during a meal is a significant aspect of dining etiquette in Nepal, highlighting the culture's emphasis on hospitality and communal dining. When dining in a Nepali household or with Nepali hosts, it's considered polite to accept seconds when offered, even if you're already full. This gesture shows appreciation for the host's generosity and the effort put into preparing the meal. It also fosters a sense of togetherness and mutual respect among diners. Hosts often take pride in ensuring that their guests are well-fed and satisfied, so declining seconds might inadvertently convey dissatisfaction. While accepting more food, it's advisable to take a smaller portion if you're truly full, as it demonstrates your gratitude without wasting food
Chang
Chang, a traditional fermented alcoholic beverage made from millet or rice, holds a special place in Nepali culture, and observing proper etiquette when consuming it is essential. When offered Chang in a Nepali household or during a social gathering, it's customary to accept it as a sign of hospitality and friendship. When receiving Chang, hold the vessel with both hands as a sign of respect, and wait for the host or the eldest person present to initiate the first round of pouring. After the initial round, you can pour Change for others, but always use your right hand and avoid spilling or wasting any. When someone offers you Chang, it's polite to take at least a small sip, even if you don't intend to drink much, as it demonstrates your appreciation. Throughout the Chang-drinking session, engage in lively conversation and socialise with those around you, fostering a sense of camaraderie and celebration.
Jutho
In Nepal, the concept of "Jutho" is a fundamental aspect of dining etiquette and hygiene. Jutho refers to any food, material, or item that has come into contact with another person's saliva or has been shared in a way that it could be contaminated. It is considered impure and culturally unacceptable in Nepali society. To adhere to this etiquette, it's important never to drink directly from another person's bottle or glass, as this could transfer saliva and render the container jutho. Instead, when offered a drink, it's customary to pour it into your own glass or container and then consume it. This practice not only maintains the purity of the food or drink but also shows respect for the individual who offered it.