A traditional Newari sweet bread deep-fried to golden perfection, made from flour, sugar, butter, and cardamom. These ornate patterned confections are exchanged during festivals and family ceremonies.
Nutrition & Info
Allergen Warnings
Equipment Needed
Instructions
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1
Mix flour, sugar, cardamom, and salt in a bowl. Rub in the softened butter until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
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2
Gradually add warm milk and knead into a firm dough. Cover and rest for fifteen minutes.
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3
Divide dough into portions and roll into thick discs or shape into traditional ring forms about half an inch thick.
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4
Heat oil for deep frying to medium temperature. Fry the lakhamari on low to medium heat, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through, about eight to ten minutes per batch.
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5
Drain on paper and cool completely. Lakhamari hardens as it cools, developing its characteristic crunch. Store in an airtight container.
Did You Know?
Lakhamari comes in many shapes and sizes, from small everyday rounds to elaborate oversized pieces weighing several kilograms that are exchanged between families during wedding negotiations.
Chef's Notes
Equipment Tips
- deep frying pan
- mixing bowl
- rolling pin
The Story Behind Lakhamari
Lakhamari is one of the most recognizable Newari sweets, with a tradition stretching back centuries in the Kathmandu Valley. These deep-fried breads serve both culinary and social functions in Newari society. Different shapes carry different meanings: the ring-shaped lakhamari is exchanged during engagements, while ornate large pieces are presented during major festivals. The craft of making lakhamari with intricate surface patterns is a specialized skill, and certain Newari families are renowned for their lakhamari-making expertise passed down through generations.
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