Overview
Lakhamari is a traditional Newari sweet that reflects Nepal’s rich cultural heritage. Newar communities prepare it by mixing flour, sugar, and ghee, then shaping the dough into long, ring-like, or decorative forms. After that, they deep-fry it until it turns crispy and golden. As a result, Lakhamari develops a crunchy texture with a mild, pleasant sweetness which makes it a traditional Newari sweet.
Moreover, people mainly use Lakhamari during weddings and important rituals, where it symbolizes long life, prosperity, and strong relationships. In addition, artisans often create intricate designs, turning this sweet into a form of edible art. Because of its durability, families can preserve it for a long time without spoilage.
Therefore, Lakhamari not only satisfies taste but also carries deep cultural meaning. Whether you explore Newari traditions or try local sweets, Lakhamari offers a unique and memorable experience.
History and Origin
Lakhamari has a long history rooted in the ancient Newar civilization of the Kathmandu Valley. Traditionally, Newar communities developed this sweet as part of their rich culinary and ritual practices. Initially, they prepared Lakhamari for religious ceremonies; however, over time, they strongly connected it with marriage rituals.
During traditional Newari weddings, families began using Lakhamari as a symbol of long life and prosperity. As a result, its importance grew beyond food and became a cultural emblem. Moreover, artisans started crafting it in detailed and decorative shapes, which reflected both skill and tradition.
Because Lakhamari lasts for a long time without spoiling, people valued it as a sign of durability and strong relationships. Therefore, generation after generation preserved this sweet and its meaning. Today, Lakhamari continues to represent Newar heritage, connecting modern celebrations with ancient traditions.
How to Make One?
To make Lakhamari we need following ingredients:
- 1 and 1/2 cup of wheat flour
- 1 tsp sesame seeds
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup water for the dough
- 40 ml ghee(clarified butter)/oil
- 1 cup sugar for sugar syrup
- 1 cup of water for sugar syrup
- 3 cups oil for cooking
- Pinch of salt
Steps:
- In a bowl, add wheat flour, baking powder and sesame seeds and mix well.
- Add water little by kneading well and knead it for 5-6 mins to make a dough.
- Cover it with a lid and let the dough rest for 15-20 mins.
- Add water and sugar in a saucepan to make a sugar syrup.
- Heat the syrup and stir it frequently with a spoon for 10-15 mins. Once it is sticky and runny at the same time, keep it aside on very low heat.
- Take the dough and knead it for a few mins.
- Take a small round dough.
- Roll the dough and turn it into an elongated shape.
- Cut the dough into smaller size with a knife. Try to keep the dough in a cylindrical shape.
- Heat the oil in a deep-frying pan on medium heat. Once it gets hot, bring the flame to medium-low.
- Drop the doughs slowly into the pan and fry them until they are golden brown on both sides.
- Once removed, dip the fried-dough into the sugar syrup we made earlier
- Place it on the plate and leave it for half an hour to dry.
- It is ready to serve with the sides of your choice.
Utensils Required
- Bowl
- Saucepan
- knife
- Deep frying pan
- Tongs
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Where to Find and Buy?
Lakhamari can be only bought in special places and dedicated shops only, here are few dedicated and best shops you can find to buy
- Kasthamandap Bhandar
Pure, Authentic, Delicious Sweets and Snacks
2. Kasthamandap Khadya Udhyog
Mithai Pasal
3. Daraz
