Sel Roti & Aloo Tarkari: A Sweet and Spicy Nepali Breakfast Combo

Ask any Nepali what reminds them of home, and chances are they’ll mention the irresistible aroma of Sel Roti frying in the kitchen and the spicy, comforting Aloo Tarkari simmering on the stove. This duo is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of culture, festivals, and family mornings.

Whether you’re exploring Nepali cuisine for the first time or craving a taste of your roots, this guide will walk you through the beloved breakfast pairing of Sel Roti & Aloo Tarkari, step by step.

👉 Looking for an authentic way to spice up your morning? Try making Sel Roti & Aloo Tarkari—the ultimate Nepali breakfast combo.

Table of content

1. What Makes Sel Roti & Aloo Tarkari Special?

2. Ingredients You’ll Need for Both Dishes

3. Cooking Method: How to Make Sel Roti & Aloo Tarkari

4. How to Serve and Enjoy the Combo

1. What Makes Sel Roti & Aloo Tarkari Special?

Sel Roti is a traditional ring-shaped rice bread, deep-fried to crispy perfection with a sweet, nutty flavor. Aloo Tarkari is a spiced potato curry—savory, bold, and full of warmth.

• Sel Roti: Crisp outside, soft inside

• Aloo Tarkari: Comfort food made from basic pantry ingredients

• Common during festivals like Tihar and Dashain

• Perfect harmony of sweet and savory

2. Ingredients You’ll Need for Both Dishes

For Sel Roti:

• 2 cups rice (soaked and ground)

• 1 ripe banana or sugar (for sweetness)

• Milk or water (to adjust batter consistency)

• Ghee or oil for frying

• A pinch of cardamom (optional)

For Aloo Tarkari:

• 3–4 medium potatoes (boiled & chopped)

• 1 onion, sliced

• 2 tomatoes, diced

• Green chili, garlic, turmeric, cumin, and salt

• Mustard oil or ghee for cooking

3. Cooking Method: How to Make Sel Roti & Aloo Tarkari

Making Sel Roti:

1. Blend soaked rice into a thick batter

2. Mix in banana (or sugar), cardamom, and water or milk

3. Heat oil and carefully pour batter in circular motion

4. Fry till golden brown and crispy

Making Aloo Tarkari:

1. Heat mustard oil and sauté onion and garlic

2. Add tomatoes, turmeric, and green chili

3. Mix in boiled potatoes, salt, and water

4. Simmer till flavors blend and gravy thickens

4. How to Serve and Enjoy the Combo

This combo is best served:

• Hot and fresh, with sel roti crisp and curry warm

• With a cup of hot milk tea or black tea (chiya)

• For breakfast, brunch, or festive gatherings

• Garnish tarkari with fresh coriander for extra flavor