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Yomari: Traditional Newari Delicacy

In December, on the night of the full moon, the Newar community celebrates Yomari Punhi, a festival marking the rice harvest.

Also known as Dhanya Purnima in Sanskrit, this festival involves offering rice to Annapurna, the goddess of grain. Families come together to make yomari, while young people sing and go door-to-door asking for yomari in a tradition called ‘yomari phonegu’ or ‘tyachim tya phonegu.’ Yomari are crafted in various shapes, including those of deities like Laxmi, Ganesh, Kubera, and Saraswati, and placed in a large grain basket, or bhakari, as offerings to the gods in gratitude for a successful harvest.

Preparation and Ingredients

1 Prepare the Dough
  • In a large bowl, mix rice flour with hot water to form a smooth, pliable dough.
  • Knead well to ensure there are no lumps. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest.
2 Prepare the Filling
  • For the traditional filling, melt the chaku in a pan over low heat. Add toasted sesame seeds and grated coconut (if using).
  • Stir until well combined and set aside to cool.
  • For khuwa filling, cook until soft and mash them into a thick paste. Mix with sugar or chaku for sweetness, if desired.
  • For lentils filling, soak lentils overnight, grind finely the next day, and add 1-2 tbsp of water if needed for a smooth batter.
  • Add salt, garlic, and ginger paste, then whisk for a couple of minutes.
3 Shape the Yomari
  • Take a small portion of the dough and roll it into a ball. Flatten it slightly and shape it into a cone or fish-like form by pinching one end to create a pointed tip.
  • Fill the hollow center with the prepared filling using a small spoon. Seal the open end by pinching and smoothing the dough.
4 Steam the Yomari
  • Place the filled yomari on a greased steamer tray, ensuring they do not touch each other. Steam for about 20-25 minutes until the dough is cooked and translucent.

The Nutritional
Value of Yomari

Yomari, a traditional Newari delicacy, combines delightful taste with nutritional benefits. Made from rice flour, it offers energy-boosting carbohydrates. The chaku filling is rich in iron, calcium, magnesium, and antioxidants, while sesame seeds provide healthy fats, protein, and fiber. If coconut is included, it adds extra nutrients, and a lentil filling supplies high protein and essential minerals. This combination makes yomari a nutritious festive treat that supports energy, heart health, and digestion.

Cultural Significance

Yomari, a beloved Newar delicacy, is celebrated during Yomari Punhi, marking the rice harvest. Also known as Dhanya Purnima, this festival involves offering rice to Annapurna, symbolizing prosperity and gratitude. Preparing and sharing yomari bring families together, reinforcing cultural heritage. Young people go door-to-door singing for yomari, fostering community spirit.
Yomari, shaped like deities, is offered to the gods in gratitude for a successful harvest. This practice underscores the spiritual connection and reverence for nature in Newar culture. Yomari’s preparation and sharing celebrate the Newar people’s rich traditions, preserving their heritage.