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Discover the rich flavours, traditions, and culinary heritage of the Newar community through an immersive Authentic Newari Culinary Workshop in the heart of the Kathmandu Valley. Newari cuisine is an essential part of Nepal’s cultural identity, celebrated for its distinctive spices, traditional cooking techniques, locally sourced ingredients, and diverse range of dishes.
During this hands-on experience, you will be welcomed by a local host or experienced cook who will introduce you to the cultural significance of Newari food and the ingredients commonly used in traditional recipes. Learn how to prepare popular Newari delicacies such as bara (lentil pancakes), chatamari (Newari rice-flour crepes), yomari (sweet rice-flour dumplings), and traditional pickles, depending on the workshop menu.
From preparing ingredients and grinding spices to mixing, shaping, and cooking traditional dishes, you will participate in each step under the guidance of your local host. Along the way, discover the stories behind the recipes, the role of food in Newari festivals and celebrations, and the customs surrounding traditional Newari dining.
The experience concludes with an opportunity to enjoy the dishes you have prepared, sharing a delicious meal and meaningful cultural exchange with your host.
Whether you are a food enthusiast, a curious traveller, or someone who enjoys learning new cooking skills, this workshop offers a wonderful opportunity to experience Newari culture through its most cherished culinary traditions.
Welcome to a Traditional Newari Home
Meet your local host in a traditional Newari home and receive a warm introduction to Newari cuisine, its cultural importance, and its role in everyday life, festivals, and family celebrations.
Discover Traditional Ingredients
Explore the ingredients commonly used in Newari cooking, including aromatic spices, lentils, seasonal vegetables, fermented foods, beaten rice (chiura), and locally sourced produce. Learn about their flavours and uses in traditional recipes.
Introduction to Newari Food Preparation
Discover the basic techniques behind preparing a traditional Newari meal. Learn how to prepare key components such as beaten rice, lentil dishes, vegetable curries, traditional pickles (achar), and other side dishes according to the workshop menu.
Hands-on Traditional Cooking Experience
Cook selected Newari dishes step by step under the guidance of your host. Participate in preparing, seasoning, mixing, and cooking while learning traditional methods and family recipes passed down through generations.
Learn About the Traditional Samay Baji Platter
Discover the cultural significance and traditional arrangement of Samay Baji, a well-known Newari feast platter. Learn about its common elements, which may include beaten rice (chiura), bara, black soybeans, boiled egg, smoked or dried meat, potato, ginger, and traditional pickles. The exact combination varies by household and occasion.
Enjoy an Authentic Newari Meal with Your Host
Sit down with your host and enjoy the dishes prepared during the workshop. Share stories, learn about Newari dining customs, and experience the warmth of traditional Nepali hospitality.
Hands-on Cooking Workshop: Guided cooking experience with a local Newari host in a traditional home.
All Ingredients and Utensils: Fresh ingredients, traditional spices, cooking utensils, and equipment required for the session.
Traditional Newari Meal: Enjoy a delicious Newari meal featuring the dishes prepared during the workshop.
Cultural Insights: Learn about Newari food traditions, local ingredients, cooking techniques, and the cultural significance of traditional dishes.
Recipe and Cooking Guidance: Step-by-step instructions and assistance from your host throughout the cooking experience.
Traditional Dining Experience: Discover the customs of Newari dining, including the traditional Samay Baji platter, depending on the workshop menu.
Transportation: Transfers to and from Kirtipur are not included but can be arranged at an additional cost.
Additional Beverages: Extra drinks and beverages beyond those provided as part of the workshop.
Tips and Gratuities: Tips for the local host, cook, or other service providers.
Personal Expenses: Any personal purchases or expenses not specifically mentioned in the inclusions section.
Q1: Is Newari food very spicy?
Newari cuisine uses a variety of spices, herbs, and seasonings, but the level of spiciness can be adjusted to suit your preference. Please inform your host about your spice tolerance before the workshop begins.
Q2: Are vegetarian meals available?
Yes. Many traditional Newari dishes are vegetarian, and a vegetarian cooking experience can be arranged. Please inform us of your dietary preferences or restrictions in advance so the host can plan suitable ingredients and recipes.
Q3: What is Samay Baji?
Samay Baji is a traditional Newari platter commonly served during festivals, family gatherings, and cultural celebrations. It typically features beaten rice (chiura) accompanied by items such as bara, black soybeans, potato, ginger, pickles, and other seasonal or household specialties.
Q4: Are fermented or unusual ingredients used in Newari cooking?
Yes. Some traditional Newari dishes include fermented ingredients, such as fermented leafy greens, soybean products, or traditional pickles. Your host will explain their flavours and preparation methods, and you can choose which ingredients or dishes you would like to try.
Q5: Do I need prior cooking experience to join the workshop?
Not at all! The workshop is suitable for beginners as well as food enthusiasts. Your local host will guide you through each step, from preparing ingredients to cooking traditional dishes, making it an enjoyable and interactive cultural experience.
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