Newari cuisine boasts an enduring fan base in Nepal, captivating taste buds for centuries. The unrivaled love for this traditional fare remains unmatched. To truly experience the essence of Newari food in Kathmandu, Nepal, one must indulge in an array of authentic dishes offered at renowned establishments.
Unfamiliar with authentic Newari cuisine and its whereabouts? Fret not! This article presents a must-try list of Newari food in Nepal. Take time to discover the rich flavors and genuine authenticity of Newari culinary delights. Gather your friends and family, and relish the feast together.
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Newari cuisine utilizes locally sourced ingredients and spices, showcasing the flavors unique to Nepal. Traditionally, Newari food was prepared exclusively during special occasions or festivals, as part of grand Newari feasts in the densely populated Newar settlements of Kathmandu.
However, as Kathmandu has become a diverse hub of cultures, people from all walks of life now relish Newari food. You can discover numerous Newar individuals selling Newari delicacies, often incorporating secret ancestral recipes and treasured ingredients.
The availability of Newari food has expanded, allowing everyone to savor its distinctive taste. Whether you are a local or a visitor, exploring Newari cuisine is a delightful way to experience the culinary heritage of Nepal.
Discover the must-try Newari food in Nepal! When visiting Kathmandu, delve into the flavors of Newa cuisine, considered the finest of Nepalese culinary delights.
Yomari is crafted from rice flour. A soft white dough is prepared by adding hot water to prevent it from hardening. The dough is then covered with a cloth to retain its warmth. A small portion of dough is shaped into a cup-like structure, and it is filled with Chaku—a sweet brown paste—as well as coconut dust or Khuwa to enhance the taste. The filled dough is steamed for approximately 10 minutes, resulting in a delectable Yomari.
This Newari delight is particularly popular during the winter season as it helps keep the body warm. Yomari Purne, celebrated by the Newar community in November/December, is a special occasion dedicated to Yomari.
During Yomari Purne, entrepreneurs don Newari attire and sell Yomari. A grand fair is organized, offering not only Yomari but also other Newari foods. You can find Yomari restaurants along bustling streets in Kathmandu, Bhaktapur, and Lalitpur.
Sapu Mhicha
Sapu Mhicha is a delectable dish made from buffalo bone marrow, renowned for its soft, juicy, and chewy texture. The preparation process is unique, involving stuffing the buffalo leaf tripe with bone marrow, resembling a small bag tied with a thread. It is initially boiled and then deep-fried until it develops a slight blackened color.
Sapu Mhicha holds significance in Newari culture, often prepared specifically for special occasions. To fully relish the experience, one is advised to consume the entire Sapu Mhicha in a single bite, leaving the thread in hand to let the bone marrow melt in the mouth. While it is commonly available in Newari restaurants, it's recommended to inquire in advance to ensure they serve Sapu Mhicha.
Selroti, a beloved delicacy, holds a special place among various ethnic groups in Nepal, particularly during the Tihar festival. Originating from the Newar community, Selroti is a sweet traditional food with a doughnut-like appearance, made from rice flour. Despite being deep-fried, it retains a soft and chewy texture. A perfect accompaniment to Selroti is aalu achaar, a spicy potato pickle, creating a delightful fusion of flavors. While Selroti can be enjoyed anytime, many prefer it as a breakfast treat with tea. Sweet shops typically offer Selroti, but for an authentic experience, visit Newari restaurants in Basantapur, Banglamukhi, or Kirtipur.
Bara
Bara, a delightful Newari snack, is a versatile treat suitable for any time of the day. These round lentil pancakes not only taste delicious but also possess an appealing appearance. However, the preparation process can be slightly lengthy and challenging.
To make Bara, lentil beans are soaked overnight and then washed multiple times until the outer peels are removed. The beans are then ground into a thick paste using a grinder. Ginger and salt are added to taste. In a pan, a teaspoon of oil is heated, and a scoop of the lentil paste is spread like a pancake. Additional toppings such as egg, meat, or vegetables can be added according to personal preference. Cook both sides until golden, and the Bara is ready to be savored.
Bara retains its popularity and is still prepared in many Newari households during special occasions. You can enjoy Bara at Newari restaurants as it is a staple on their menus, often featured in Newari Khaja (snacks).
Chatamari
Chatamari is a unique dish resembling a pizza, but with entirely distinct flavors. It is crafted from rice flour, where water is mixed to form a thick paste-like consistency. Salt is added for taste, and a variety of toppings can be chosen, including meat, eggs, cheese, and vegetables like mushrooms, paneer, corn, onions, tomatoes, and more.
Chatamari is considered a healthy option and is sometimes favored by individuals following a diet plan. However, it may not be available in all Newari restaurants. One can find a dedicated Chatamari outlet in Bhimsenthan, or visit Newa Lahana in Kirtipur, a popular restaurant known for its delicious Chatamari with customizable toppings.
Chhoyela
Afterward, the meat is diced into small pieces and mixed with pure mustard oil, along with a blend of distinct spices. These spices, combined with the tender texture of the meat, significantly contribute to its exquisite taste. To truly savor the authentic flavors of Chhoyela, it is recommended to try it at a genuine Newari restaurant rather than opting for any ordinary eatery. While Chhoyela is readily available at nearby restaurants, an authentic Newari dining experience will truly elevate your enjoyment of this delectable dish.
Juju Dhau
Dhau, which translates to yogurt in English, is a beloved dessert in Nepal, often associated with Newari cuisine. Traditionally, a Newari feast concludes with the serving of yogurt, a tradition that continues to this day. However, Dhau can be enjoyed at any time and in any place. Made from milk, it is typically prepared in clay pots and is particularly refreshing during the summer as it provides a cooling effect.
When in Bhaktapur, be sure to visit Juju Dhau, a renowned outlet for Dhau. They are known for selling the best yogurt in Nepal, so don't miss the opportunity to savor their offerings.
Lakhamari
Lakhamari, a delightful Newari confection, presents itself in two distinct forms, each offering a unique culinary experience. This sweet treat possesses a firm and brittle texture, yet upon touching the palate, it effortlessly dissolves, creating a heavenly sensation.
The primary ingredients that compose Lakhamari are flour, sugar, and butter. During Newari wedding ceremonies, an exquisite and sizable Lakhamari holds a prominent position. As part of the customary rituals, it is customary for the groom's family to send Lakhamari to the bride's household. Interestingly, a smaller variant resembling a slender stick also exists, showcasing a distinct shape while preserving the same delectable flavor.
Lakhamari possesses an extended shelf life, allowing it to be stored for several days. Many indulge in this treat by pairing it with a warm cup of tea, relishing its delightful taste. Conveniently, Lakhamari can be readily found at various sweet shops, ensuring its accessibility to those seeking its scrumptious allure.
Newari Bhutan
Aalu Tama
Aalu Tama is a renowned soup made with fermented bamboo shoots, renowned for its sour, tangy, and delectable qualities. This traditional dish tantalizes the taste buds with its distinct flavors. The fermented bamboo shoots infuse the soup with a delightful sourness that is balanced by a tangy essence, resulting in a truly appetizing experience. Aalu Tama stands out as a popular choice among soup lovers, who savor its unique taste. The combination of flavors, derived from the fermented bamboo shoots, ensures a memorable culinary adventure for those who indulge in this beloved dish.
Conclusion
Newari food has emerged as a popular choice in the realm of fast food, but it remains a healthy and hygienic culinary option. Its lightness on the stomach allows for frequent enjoyment with loved ones, making it suitable for regular consumption. The utilization of pure, locally sourced ingredients in Newari cuisine provides it with the potential to become a global culinary sensation.
While numerous restaurants in Nepal offer Newari dishes at affordable prices, it is crucial to make a conscious decision about where to dine in order to savor the authentic flavors that define this traditional cuisine. For those seeking an immersive experience, Newa Lahana in Kirtipur stands out as an ideal choice. This Newari restaurant, managed by a group of dedicated Newari women, showcases not only the food preparation and serving styles but also the authentic Newari dress known as 'Haku Patasi' and traditional ornaments, creating a truly local ambiance.
As you embark on your Newari culinary journey, make sure to sample the dishes mentioned above. Should you have any further inquiries, feel free to leave a comment or begin making plans with friends and family.
Wishing you a delightful and flavorsome day ahead!