Jasmine Foods
2 min readDec 28, 2022

KINEMA ( A Traditional food of Nepal)

Kinema is a traditional food made from fermented soybeans that is popular in Nepal and some parts of India. It is often made by soaking soybeans in water for several days until they sprout, then grinding them into a paste and allowing them to ferment for several more days. The fermented paste is then dried and ground into a powder, which can be reconstituted with water to make a savory broth or sauce.

To make kinema at home, you will need:

  • 1 cup of soybeans
  • Water
  • A blender or grinder
  • A large jar or container with a lid
  • Cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer

Here is a basic recipe for making kinema at home:

  1. Rinse the soybeans and soak them in water for 3–4 days, changing the water every day.
  2. After the soybeans have sprouted, drain the water and transfer the soybeans to a blender or grinder. Grind them into a smooth paste.
  3. Transfer the paste to a large jar or container, cover it with a lid or cheesecloth, and allow it to ferment for 3–4 days in a warm place.
  4. Once the kinema has fermented, strain it through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove any solids.
  5. Spread the kinema out onto a tray or baking sheet and place it in a warm, dry place to allow it to dry completely.
  6. Once the kinema is dry, grind it into a fine powder using a blender or grinder. Store the kinema powder in an airtight container until you are ready to use it.

To use kinema, simply reconstitute it with water to make a broth or sauce. It can be used as a base for soups and stews, or as a condiment for rice and other dishes. Some people also add spices or herbs to enhance the flavor of the kinema.