Yomari (Newari Steamed Rice Dumplings with Jaggery and Sesame)

Method

1. 1

   Bring the water to a boil, then stir it into the rice flour off the heat until a shaggy dough forms.

2. 2

   Once cool enough to handle, knead the dough until smooth and pliable, keeping it covered with a damp cloth so it doesn't dry out and crack.

3. 3

   Toast the sesame seeds until fragrant, grind coarsely, and work them together with the grated jaggery into a thick, spoonable filling.

4. 4

   Divide the dough into 12 balls and flatten each into a small cup in your palm.

5. 5

   Spoon in the filling, then gather the edges up and pinch into the traditional pointed, fig-like shape, sealing firmly at the top so no filling escapes.

   💡 A weak seam is the one thing that ruins a batch — pinch until the dough feels genuinely fused, not just pressed together.

6. 6

   Arrange on an oiled steamer rack and steam until the dough turns glossy and firm, 15–18 minutes.

7. 7

   Cool slightly before eating — the jaggery filling holds its heat.