Htamanè

Htamanè is a cherished traditional snack in Myanmar, crafted from glutinous rice and typically prepared during the full moon day of Tabodwe, which occurs in the 11th lunar month of the Burmese calendar.

The preparation begins with washing and soaking both white and purple glutinous rice. The rice is then kneaded, crushed, and combined with water and peanut oil, cooked until it forms a thick, blackish-grey paste. This stage is quite a spectacle, as two individuals use large wooden spatulas to mix the dough, while a third person oversees the entire process.

To enhance its flavor, toasted sesame seeds, peanuts, fried ginger, additional peanut oil, and fried coconut shavings are incorporated into the mixture. Once the Htamanè is fully cooked, it is garnished with extra coconut shavings, peanuts, and sesame seeds.

Given the necessity for ample space and large quantities of ingredients, this snack is usually prepared in monasteries and specialized shops. Before anyone partakes, a portion is traditionally offered to the Buddha. Following this ritual, it is shared with family, friends, and neighbors as a festive treat.

During the season, certain places, such as the Shwedagon Pagoda, even host Htamanè-making competitions, infusing a sense of fun and community spirit into the celebrations.