Yomari is a traditional Newari delicacy from Nepal, typically prepared during the Yomari Punhi festival. These steamed dumplings are made with rice flour and filled with sweet ingredients like chaku (molasses) or khuwa (evaporated milk solids).
The unique shape of Yomari, resembling a fish or a teardrop, and its rich, sweet filling make it a beloved treat in Nepalese cuisine.
Yomari
Yomari is a traditional Newari delicacy from Nepal, typically prepared during the Yomari Punhi festival. It is a steamed dumpling made with rice flour and filled with sweet ingredients like chaku (molasses) or khuwa (evaporated milk solids). Let's make this delicious Yomari together!
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 cups rice flour
- 1/3 cup wheat flour optional
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 1/2 cup milk optional
- 2 tablespoons ghee clarified butter or vegetable oil
For the Filling:
- 200 grams chaku molasses or jaggery
- 1/2 cup roasted sesame seeds ground
- 1/2 cup roasted cashew nuts or peanuts ground
- 1/2 cup grated coconut
- 1 tablespoon rice flour
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- Break the chaku (molasses) into small pieces for even cooking.
- In a saucepan, add the chaku and a cup of hot water. Heat the pan until the chaku completely melts in the water.
- Add the ground sesame seeds, ground cashew nuts, grated coconut, and a tablespoon of rice flour. Cook on low heat with continuous stirring until the paste becomes gooey (honey consistency). Set aside to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
- In a bowl, mix the rice flour and wheat flour (if using).
- Gradually add warm water and milk (if using) to the flour mixture, kneading well to make a soft dough. The dough should be very soft but not runny. Adjust with more water or flour as needed.
- Cover the dough and let it rest for 10 minutes.
Step 3: Shape the Yomari
- Oil your hands with ghee or vegetable oil to prevent the dough from sticking.
- Take a small portion of the dough and shape it into a round ball.
- Using your index finger, create a cavity in the center of the dough ball to form a cone shape.
- Fill the cavity with the prepared filling, then seal the top by pinching the dough together.
Step 4: Steam the Yomari
- Grease the steamer plate with oil and place the Yomari on it.
- Steam the Yomari for 10-15 minutes until they are cooked and the outer covering is slightly translucent.
- Serve hot with honey or syrup.
Tips and Information
- Dough Consistency: The dough should be soft and pliable to shape easily. Adjust with water or flour as needed.
- Filling Variations: You can also use khuwa (evaporated milk solids) or chocolate as fillings.
- Serving: Yomari is best enjoyed hot, straight from the steamer.
Preparing Yomari in your own kitchen allows you to savor the authentic taste of this traditional Newari dish. The freshly made dough and rich filling give the Yomari a unique flavor that is sure to impress. Serve them hot with a side of honey for a complete and hearty dessert.