Discover the authentic taste of Nepal with this Sel Roti recipe. Made from rice flour, this traditional doughnut is crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and perfectly sweetened. Ideal for festivals and celebrations, Sel Roti is a must-try treat that brings a taste of Nepali culture to your kitchen. Follow our step-by-step guide to make this delicious and unique doughnut at home.

Ingredients:

- 2 cups rice flour

- 1 cup water (adjust as needed)

- 1/2 cup sugar

- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional)

- 1/4 cup melted ghee or butter

- 1 ripe banana, mashed (optional for softness)

- Oil for frying

Instructions:

Prepare the Batter:

  - In a large mixing bowl, combine rice flour, sugar, and ground cardamom (if using).

  - Add the mashed banana and melted ghee or butter to the dry ingredients. Mix well.

  - Gradually add water to the mixture, stirring continuously until a smooth, thick batter forms. The consistency should be similar to pancake batter, thick enough to hold its shape but not too runny.

Heat the Oil:

  - Heat oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot enough for frying but not too hot to burn the Sel Roti.

Shape and Fry the Sel Roti:

  - Pour a small ladleful of batter into the hot oil in a circular motion, forming a doughnut shape. If the batter spreads too much, adjust the thickness.

  - Fry the Sel Roti until golden brown and crispy on both sides, flipping it carefully to ensure even cooking.

  - Once cooked, remove the Sel Roti from the oil and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Serve:

  - Enjoy the Sel Roti warm or at room temperature. It can be served as a snack or dessert, often enjoyed during Nepali festivals like Tihar and Dashain.

Notes:

- Adjust the sweetness to your preference by adding more or less sugar.

- For a richer flavor, you can substitute water with milk or coconut milk.

Nutritional Values

Rice Flour (2 cups)

  - Calories: About 570 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 120 grams

  - Fat: 0.5 grams

  - Protein: 6 grams

Benefits: Provides a good source of carbohydrates for energy. Gluten-free and suitable for those with gluten sensitivity.

Water (1 cup, adjust as needed)

 - Nutritional Values: Minimal calories, no macronutrients.

Benefits: Essential for achieving the desired consistency in the recipe. Helps to hydrate and mix ingredients.

Sugar (1/2 cup)

  - Calories: About 400 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 100 grams

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Protein: 0 grams

Benefits: Adds sweetness to the recipe. Provides quick energy, but should be consumed in moderation to manage blood sugar levels.

Ground Cardamom (1/2 teaspoon, optional)

  - Calories: About 3 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 0.7 grams

  - Fat: 0 grams

  - Protein: 0.1 grams

Benefits: Adds a distinctive flavor and aroma. Contains antioxidants and may aid digestion and freshen breath.

Melted Ghee or Butter (1/4 cup)

  - Calories: About 450 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

  - Fat: 50 grams

  - Protein: 0 grams

Benefits: Adds richness and flavor. Ghee is a good source of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K, and may aid in digestion.

Ripe Banana (1, mashed, optional)

  - Calories: About 105 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 27 grams

  - Fat: 0.3 grams

  - Protein: 1.3 grams

Benefits: Adds natural sweetness and moisture. Provides potassium, vitamins B6 and C, and dietary fiber.

Oil for Frying

  - Calories: About 120 kcal

  - Fat: 14 grams

  - Carbohydrates: 0 grams

  - Protein: 0 grams

Benefits: Used for frying to achieve a crispy texture. Provides fats needed for cooking.

These ingredients combine to create a dish that is rich in flavor and texture, with various nutritional benefits.