Visiting Nepal? Don't forget to try these lip-smacking desserts
What's the story
Nepal is known for its rich culture and traditions, which extend to their wide array of unique and scrumptious sweet delicacies. These sweets, while being a part of the Nepali cuisine, also hold a mirror to the country's cultural richness. In this article, we delve into the world of must-try desserts and snacks from Nepal, ones that hold significance in festive offerings as well as everyday snacks.
Juju dhau
Juju dhau: The king of yogurts
Hailing from Bhaktapur, juju dhau is a legendary yogurt that wins hearts with its creaminess and richness. Crafted in clay pots that infuse it with that special earthy flavor, this yogurt is the star of any Newari festival or celebration. Enjoy it chilled for the ultimate experience. Grab it from local markets around Kathmandu Valley. It costs just ₹50/pot.
Yomari
Yomari: A delightful dumpling
Yomari is a traditional Newari sweet prepared during the Yomari Punhi festival. This delicacy features an outer casing of rice flour dough filled with a sweet mixture of jaggery (molasses) and sesame seeds. The crafting of yomari involves creating complex shapes representing different deities. Prices range, but you can expect to pay around ₹30/piece in local restaurants.
Sel roti
Sel roti: The Nepali doughnut
Sel roti is a round, deep-fried rice bread that combines the best of both a bagel and a doughnut. It's crunchy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and sweet thanks to sugar or molasses. While it's a special treat during the Tihar festival, you'll find it served as a breakfast or tea-time snack throughout the year. Street vendors sell them at ₹20 a piece. Yummy!
Lalmohan
Lalmohan: A sweet confectionery
Lalmohan, or as we Indians call it when it is immersed in chasni gulab jamun, is a beloved dessert throughout South Asia, including Nepal. Crafted from milk solids kneaded into dough balls, deep-fried, and then soaked in a fragrant syrup, lalmohan offers a spongy and juicy texture. You can find it at any sweet shop for approximately ₹10-₹15/piece.
Barfi
Barfi: A creamy treat
Barfi, a popular sweet treat in Nepal, is a creamy delight made from condensed milk and sugar cooked to a fudge-like consistency. Often infused with cardamom or topped with pistachios or almonds, modern twists include chocolate and fruit barfi. Embodying festivity during Dashain and Tihar, prices range from ₹20 to ₹50 per 100 grams, depending on the ingredients used.