Traditional Nepali Yomari Recipe with Chaku and Sesame Yomari is a steamed Newari rice-flour dumpling traditionally filled with chaku, sesame and sometimes coconut. Its pointed shape is closely associated with Yomari Punhi, but the warm, molten-centred sweet is enjoyed whenever families gather to make it.
Recipe summary: Prep 45m | Cook 15m | Yield 12 yomari
Ingredients
- 2 cups fine rice flour
- 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 cups hot water
- 1 teaspoon neutral oil, plus more for hands
- 200 g chaku or dark jaggery, chopped
- 1/3 cup toasted sesame seeds, ground
- 2 tablespoons desiccated coconut, optional
- 1 tablespoon ghee
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
How to make it
1. Prepare the filling
Melt chaku gently with ghee. Stir in ground sesame, coconut and cardamom. Cool until thick but spoonable.
2. Make the dough
Place rice flour in a bowl. Add hot water gradually, mixing carefully, then knead while warm into a smooth, soft, crack-free dough.
3. Shape
With lightly oiled hands, form a ball and pinch it into a thin cone or cup. Keep the base slightly thicker than the upper walls.
4. Fill and seal
Add 1-2 teaspoons filling without touching the rim. Pinch the opening closed and taper it into the traditional pointed shape.
5. Steam
Arrange on a lightly oiled steamer tray and steam over boiling water for 12-15 minutes until glossy and cooked. Serve warm.
Practical tips
- Keep the rice dough warm and covered to prevent cracks.
- If dough cracks, knead in hot water one teaspoon at a time.
- Do not overfill; hot chaku expands and can leak.
- Handle freshly steamed yomari carefully because the centre is very hot.
Frequently asked questions
What is chaku?
Chaku is concentrated cane jaggery used in Nepali sweets. Dark jaggery is a practical substitute.
Why did my yomari crack?
The dough was likely too dry or became cold. Add a little hot water and keep it covered.
Can yomari be reheated?
Yes. Re-steam for 4-5 minutes; microwaving can make rice dough tough.
Adjust chilli and salt to taste. Cool leftovers promptly and refrigerate in a covered container.