Dessert
Yomari with Coconut and Cardamom: Nepalese Steamed Rice Dumplings
Original name: Yomari with Coconut and Cardamom

About this dish
Yomari is a traditional Newari steamed rice dumpling from the Kathmandu Valley, usually filled with chaku (molasses) and sesame. This version swaps in a coconut and cardamom filling, giving it a fragrant, sweet finish that feels both familiar and new.
Ingredients
UK and US measurements are both included for every recipe.
Rice flour
grain300 g
Imperial measurement: 2 1/2 cups
Water
liquid300 ml
Imperial measurement: 1 1/4 cups
Salt
seasoning1/4 tsp
Grated coconut (fresh or frozen)
fruit200 g
Imperial measurement: 2 cups packed
Jaggery, grated or chopped
other150 g
Imperial measurement: 3/4 cup
Ground cardamom
spice1 tsp
Water (for filling)
liquid2 tbsp
Banana leaf pieces (optional, for lining)
other12 pieces
Method
Make the dough
10 minutesIn a bowl, mix rice flour and salt. Bring water to a boil, then pour it over the flour and stir with a spoon until a shaggy dough forms. Cover and let cool until easy to handle.
Knead the dough
5 minutesKnead the cooled dough on a clean surface for 3-4 minutes until smooth and pliable. If sticky, dust with a little rice flour. Cover and set aside.
Prepare the filling
7 minutesIn a small saucepan over medium heat, combine grated coconut, jaggery, and 2 tbsp water. Cook, stirring, until the jaggery melts and the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. Stir in ground cardamom, then remove from heat and cool.
Shape the yomari
15 minutesDivide dough into 12 equal balls. Flatten each into a small disc, then shape into a cone by pressing your thumb into the center and rotating. Fill each cone with about 1 tbsp of coconut filling. Pinch the top to seal and shape into a teardrop with a pointed tip.
Steam the yomari
20 minutesLine a steamer with banana leaf or parchment. Arrange yomari so they don't touch. Steam over boiling water for 15-20 minutes, until the dough is translucent and firm.
Cool and serve
5 minutesLet yomari cool for 5 minutes before serving. They are best enjoyed warm, when the filling is soft and fragrant.
Equipment
- Steamer
- Mixing bowl
- Small saucepan
- Clean kitchen towel
Nutrition facts
Tips
- The dough must be kneaded while still warm to achieve a smooth, crack-free wrapper.
- If.
- If it cools too much, it becomes difficult to shape.
- Adjust the filling's sweetness to your taste: if your jaggery is very dark, start with a little less.
- Seal the yomari carefully to prevent filling from leaking during steaming. A tight pinch at the top is key.
- These are best fresh, but leftovers can be reheated in a steamer for a few minutes.
Serving suggestions
- Serve warm as a snack or dessert with tea.
- Offer alongside a drizzle of melted ghee or coconut milk for extra richness.
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Recipe by
Nabin Gurung
Specialises in Nepalese cuisineNabin makes momos at 3am when he can't sleep. His chili oil is classified as a controlled substance by his roommates.
Describe yourself in three words: Sleepy but brilliant, lives nocturnally.