Sel roti is a traditional Nepali ring-shaped bread made from rice flour and fried during festivals.
The batter is prepared from ground rice, usually with ingredients such as sugar, ghee, and spices. It is poured in a circular shape into hot oil, creating a crisp outer surface and a softer interior.
Sel roti is especially associated with major Nepali festivals, including Dashain and Tihar. It is also prepared by Nepali communities in parts of India and elsewhere, where it remains an important festive food.
Despite its ring shape, sel roti is not a yeast-raised doughnut. Its rice-based batter and festival role give it a distinct culinary identity, while the frying process explains why it is often compared with doughnuts.