Sel Roti
Sel Roti is a traditional Nepalese ring-shaped rice bread, often prepared during festivals like Tihar and Dashain. It's crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, made from rice flour and a blend of spices.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups Rice(short-grain or medium-grain, like Basmati or Sona Masoori)
- 3 cups Water(for soaking and grinding)
- 1/4 cup Sugar(or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp Salt(or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp Cardamom powder
- for deep frying Ghee or Vegetable Oil
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Rinse the rice thoroughly and soak it in water for at least 4-6 hours, or overnight.
💡 Tip: Soaking is crucial for achieving the right texture. - 2
Drain the soaked rice and grind it into a fine paste using a food processor or a traditional stone grinder. Add a little water as needed to achieve a smooth, thick batter, similar to pancake batter.
- 3
In a bowl, combine the rice paste with sugar, salt, and cardamom powder. Mix well until the sugar is dissolved.
💡 Tip: Taste the batter and adjust sweetness and salt as per your preference. - 4
Heat ghee or oil in a deep pan or kadai over medium heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking.
💡 Tip: To test if the oil is ready, drop a small amount of batter; it should sizzle and rise to the surface. - 5
Pour about 1/4 cup of batter into the hot oil, swirling your hand to create a ring shape. Alternatively, use a specialized mold if available.
💡 Tip: Work carefully to avoid splashing hot oil. - 6
Fry the Sel Roti for about 3-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Flip gently to ensure even cooking.
💡 Tip: Maintain medium heat to prevent burning. - 7
Remove the Sel Roti from the oil and drain on paper towels. Repeat with the remaining batter.
💡 Tip: Allow to cool slightly before serving.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The consistency of the batter is key; too thin and it will spread too much, too thick and it will be dense.
- ✓Ensure the oil is at the correct temperature for crispy Sel Roti.
- ✓Sel Roti can be stored in an airtight container for a few days.
🔄 Variations
- Add a pinch of cumin or fennel seeds for a different flavor profile.
- Some variations include a small amount of cooked rice mixed into the batter for a softer texture.