Yomari Punhi- Celebrating the Sweetness of Tradition

Culture and Tradition
The Buzz Nepal
December 15 , 2024

Yomari Punhi is a cherished festival celebrated by the Newar community in Nepal. It marks the end of the rice harvest and is observed on the full moon day of Thinla, the second month in the Nepal Sambat calendar. The highlight of this festival is the preparation and sharing of Yomari, a unique dumpling made from rice flour with sweet fillings like molasses and sesame seeds or sometimes khuwa (milk solids). The word “Yomari” translates to “tasty bread” in the Newar language, and it is believed to bring prosperity and happiness. During the festival, people offer Yomari to the gods and share them with family and friends, symbolizing unity and gratitude for the harvest.

A Simple Recipe for Yomari

Ingredients:

For the dough:

2 cups rice flour (preferably fine quality)
1 cup hot water

For the filling:

1 cup molasses (chaku)
½ cup roasted sesame seeds
Optional: ½ cup khuwa (milk solids) for a creamy filling

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

In a mixing bowl, add rice flour and gradually pour hot water.
Mix with a spoon initially to avoid burns, then knead into a soft, smooth dough.
Cover with a damp cloth and let it rest for 10-15 minutes.

Prepare the Filling:

In a small pan, mix molasses and roasted sesame seeds. Heat slightly until combined.
For a variation, mix khuwa with a small amount of sugar for a creamy filling.

Shape the Yomari:

Take a small portion of the dough and roll it into a ball.
Flatten the ball slightly and shape it into a cone using your fingers.
Fill the cone with the prepared filling and seal the top by pinching the edges together.

Steam the Yomari:

Place the Yomari in a steamer lined with a banana leaf or lightly greased plate.
Steam for about 10-15 minutes or until the outer layer becomes shiny and firm.

Serve: