Sekuwa is a traditional Nepalese dish consisting of meat that is marinated with a blend of spices and then grilled over an open flame or charcoal, giving it a smoky, rich flavor. The dish is an essential part of Nepalese cuisine and is typically made with meats such as goat, chicken, buffalo, or lamb, though variations may include pork or a mixture of meats. The meat is prepared by first being marinated in a mixture of spices, ginger-garlic paste, yogurt, lemon juice, mustard oil, and salt. It is then skewered and roasted over an open flame or charcoal, which imparts a unique smokiness and tenderness to the meat.
[Pathak, R. (2006). ''Nepali Cooking and Culture''. Kathmandu: Nepalese Culinary Institute. https://www.nepaleseculinaryinstitute.com]
Sekuwa is widely popular across Nepal, particularly in cities such as Kathmandu, Dharan, and Tarahara, and is considered a specialty in the Sunsari District of Koshi State in Eastern Nepal, where it is often served during festivals, celebrations, or social gatherings. In these areas, sekuwa is a common dish enjoyed with chiura (beaten rice), achar (spicy pickle), and a side salad of sliced onions, tomatoes, and cucumbers. It is also commonly paired with alcoholic beverages, especially raksi or wine.
[Koirala, S. (2010). ''Traditional Nepalese Cuisine''. Dharan: Himalayan Press. https://www.himalayanpress.com]
Although it is most commonly served as an appetizer or a main course, it is also enjoyed as a snack. The popularity of sekuwa has led to its inclusion in various local eateries, roadside stalls, and restaurants throughout Nepal, and it has become an iconic representation of Nepali cuisine.
[Shrestha, A. (2012). ''Foods of Nepal''. Kathmandu: Heritage Publishing.
https://www.heritagepublishing .com]
The calorie content of sekuwa varies depending on the type of meat used, the marinating process, and the portion size, but a typical 100-gram serving contains approximately 200-250 calories, making it a flavorful yet moderately calorie-dense dish. Despite its rich taste, sekuwa's preparation is rooted in the simple yet effective use of natural ingredients, showcasing the essence of traditional Nepali cooking.
[Nepali Culinary Institute (2015). ''The Art of Sekuwa: A Traditional Nepalese'' Kathmandu: NCI Press
https://www.ncipress.com]
References
External links
Sekuwa in KathmanduSekuwa Restaurants in Kathmandu
Nepalese cuisine
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