Tihar Sel Roti Platter

Name: Tihar Sel Roti Platter
Yield: 5
Cuisine: Nepal
Ingredients: Rice flour — 750 g (1 lb 10 oz); Sugar — 200 g (7 oz); Milk — 480 ml (16 fl oz); Ground cardamom — 1 tsp; Baking soda — 1/2 tsp; Oil for deep frying; Water, as needed

The Quirky Foodster Team

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Servings

Ingredients

Rice flour — 750 g (1 lb 10 oz)
Sugar — 200 g (7 oz)
Milk — 480 ml (16 fl oz)
Ground cardamom — 1 tsp
Baking soda — 1/2 tsp
Oil for deep frying
Water, as needed

Method

Combine the rice flour, sugar, cardamom and baking soda in a large bowl.
Gradually add the milk and a little water, mixing to form a smooth, pourable batter.
Let the batter rest for 20 minutes.
Heat oil to 175°C (350°F) in a deep pan.
Pour the batter into the hot oil in a circular, ring shape using a funnel, working in batches for the large quantity.
Fry for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp.
Drain on paper towels and arrange generously on platters for sharing with family and neighbours during the Tihar celebrations.

Introduction: A generous platter of sel roti prepared in large batches for Tihar, Nepal's festival of lights, shared among family and neighbours.

Cultural Background: During Tihar, households prepare large quantities of sel roti as part of the festival's food traditions, sharing them with visiting family, neighbours and as offerings during the multi-day celebration of lights.

Tips: Work in batches for a large quantity, keeping the oil at a steady temperature throughout. The batter should be pourable but not too thin — adjust with a little extra water or flour as needed.

Variations: Decorate the serving platter with marigold flowers, traditional to Tihar celebrations. Pair with other festive sweets for a fuller Tihar spread.

Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5–6 minutes to restore crispness.

FAQs:

Q: What is Tihar?

A: Nepal's festival of lights, a multi-day Hindu celebration honouring different animals and family relationships, with Bhai Tika (siblings' day) as a major highlight.

Q: How many does this festive batch serve?

A: This quantity makes a generous batch suitable for sharing among a large family gathering and visiting guests.