Sel Roti in Australia

Sel Roti is a traditional Nepali sweet, ring-shaped rice bread made from rice flour, sugar, ghee, and cardamom, deep-fried until crispy on the outside and soft inside. It's a staple during Nepali festivals like Dashain and Tihar, and is often served at weddings and celebrations. In Australia, many Nepali cafes and restaurants serve sel roti as a popular snack with tea (chiya).

Sel Roti holds a special place in Nepali culture and cuisine. Unlike Western breads, sel roti is made from a batter of soaked and ground rice flour, mixed with ghee, sugar, cardamom, and sometimes banana or coconut for extra flavour. The batter is then poured into hot oil in a circular motion, creating the distinctive ring shape. The result is a crispy, golden-brown bread with a soft, slightly chewy interior.

In Nepal, sel roti is traditionally prepared during major festivals — especially Dashain (the biggest Nepali festival) and Tihar (the festival of lights). Families make large batches to share with relatives and neighbours. It's also a common sight at Nepali weddings, bratabandha ceremonies, and other cultural celebrations.

In Australia, the Nepali diaspora has kept this tradition alive. Many Nepali cafes in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, and other cities serve fresh sel roti on weekends and during festival seasons. Some restaurants offer it as part of a traditional Nepali breakfast set, paired with aloo dum (spicy potato curry) or a cup of hot chiya (Nepali milk tea). During Dashain and Tihar, demand for sel roti surges, and many Nepali grocery stores sell pre-made batter for home cooking.

If you're looking to try sel roti in Australia, check Nepali restaurants and cafes that specialise in traditional cuisine. It's best enjoyed fresh and warm, either on its own or with a cup of tea.

Recipes vary between households and restaurants — use the listings below to find Sel Roti made by Nepali cooks near you.