Discover the traditional taste of Nepal with this easy Yomari recipe. Learn how to make these delicious steamed dumplings filled with sweet jaggery and sesame seeds. Perfect for festivals or a unique dessert, Yomari is a must-try dish that blends rich flavors and cultural heritage in every bite. Follow our step-by-step guide to recreate this authentic Nepalese treat at home.

Ingredients:

- Rice flour: 2 cups

- Warm water: 1 cup (adjust as needed)

- Jaggery: 1 cup, grated

- Sesame seeds: 1/2 cup, roasted

- Ghee: 1 tablespoon

- Grated coconut: 1/4 cup (optional, for extra flavor)

Instructions:

Prepare the Dough:

  - In a mixing bowl, combine the rice flour with warm water gradually.

  - Knead until you get a smooth, pliable dough. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it rest for about 30 minutes.

Prepare the Filling:

  - In a pan, heat ghee over medium heat.

  - Add grated jaggery and let it melt slowly.

  - Stir in the roasted sesame seeds (and grated coconut if using).

  - Cook for a few minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let it cool.

Shape the Yomari:

  - Take a small portion of the dough and shape it into a ball.

  - Flatten the ball and shape it into a cone by pinching the edges.

  - Carefully fill the cone with the jaggery-sesame mixture.

  - Seal the top of the dumpling by pinching the dough together, forming a pointed end.

Steam the Dumplings:

  - Place the shaped Yomari in a steamer lined with a cloth or parchment paper to prevent sticking.

  - Steam over boiling water for about 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings are firm and cooked through.

Serve:

  - Serve the Yomari warm, enjoying the sweet and nutty filling inside the soft rice flour shell.

Notes:

- Yomari is often prepared during the Yomari Punhi festival in Nepal but can be enjoyed anytime as a delicious dessert or snack.

- You can also experiment with different fillings, such as coconut and brown sugar.

Nutritional Values

Rice Flour (2 cups)

  - About 160 calories

  - 36 grams of carbohydrates

  - 0.5 grams of fat

  - 2 grams of protein

Benefits: Provides a gluten-free base, offers energy through carbohydrates, and is easily digestible.

Warm Water (1 cup, adjust as needed)

  - 0 calories

  - 0 grams of carbohydrates, fat, or protein

Benefits: Used to hydrate and bind the ingredients, essential for the preparation of the mixture.

Jaggery (1 cup, grated):

  - About 860 calories

  - 220 grams of carbohydrates

  - 0 grams of fat

  - 1 gram of protein

Benefits: A natural sweetener rich in minerals like iron, calcium, and magnesium. Provides energy and may aid in digestion.

Sesame Seeds (1/2 cup, roasted)

  - About 240 calories

  - 8 grams of carbohydrates

  - 20 grams of fat

  - 8 grams of protein

Benefits: Rich in healthy fats, protein, calcium, and iron. Supports bone health and provides a nutty flavor.

Ghee (1 tablespoon)

  - About 120 calories

  - 14 grams of fat (including 9 grams of saturated fat)

  - 0 grams of carbohydrates and protein

Benefits: Provides a rich, buttery flavor and is a source of vitamins A, D, E, and K. Contains healthy fats that can support digestive health.

Grated Coconut (1/4 cup, optional)

  - About 70 calories

  - 2 grams of carbohydrates

  - 7 grams of fat

  - 1 gram of protein

Benefits: Adds flavor and texture, and provides healthy fats and fiber. Rich in minerals like potassium and iron.

These values and benefits can help you understand the nutritional impact and health advantages of the ingredients in your recipe.