chicken (कुखुराको मासु)
About chicken (कुखुराको मासु)
Chicken is a widely consumed and popular source of protein in Nepal, playing a significant role in the Nepali diet. From street food stalls to home kitchens and upscale restaurants, chicken dishes can be found everywhere. It's often prepared in a variety of ways, including curries, stews, fried dishes, and barbecued items, catering to diverse palates. The increasing availability and affordability of chicken have made it a staple for many Nepali households, supplementing traditional vegetarian diets or those relying primarily on lentils. Due to its high protein and micronutrient content, chicken is considered a valuable food for all age groups. In recent times, there is growth in commercial poultry farming which makes chicken available throughout the country easily.
Nutritional info
These are the major micro nutrients found in chicken
Seasonality
Chicken itself is generally available year-round in Nepal due to commercial farming practices. However, the price may fluctuate slightly due to festivals and local markets' demand. Supply is usually consistent due to commercial farming.
History
Historically, poultry farming in Nepal was primarily a small-scale, backyard activity, with chickens raised mainly for their eggs and occasional meat for personal consumption. The consumption of chicken was not as widespread as it is today, with many communities often giving more importance to vegetarian meals. However, with the introduction of modern farming techniques, the emergence of commercial poultry farms, and an increase in the demand for meat, chicken has become significantly more prevalent in Nepali cuisine. The rapid urbanization of Nepal and changing dietary patterns also contributed to an increase in the consumption of chicken. Over the past decades, there has been a transformation from predominantly backyard farming to industrial level production, driven by market demand, making chicken a readily available and affordable protein source for many Nepalese.