Sri lankan kottu roti

Sri Lankan Kottu Roti is a beloved street food dish that combines chopped flatbread (typically Godamba roti or paratha) with a mix of vegetables, eggs, and curry, often chicken or beef. Here’s a detailed guide to understanding and making this iconic dish:

What is Kottu Roti

Kottu Roti is a flavorful stir-fry of shredded flatbread mixed with curry, eggs, and vegetables. It’s known for its rhythmic chopping sound when prepared by street vendors using metal blades on a hot griddle . The dish is versatile, with variations like:

• Chicken Kottu (most popular)
• Vegetable Kottu (vegetarian)
• Egg Kottu (egg-based)
• Cheese Kottu (a modern twist) .

Key Ingredients

1. Roti/Paratha : Traditionally, Godamba roti (similar to Malaysian roti canai or Indian paratha) is used. Substitutes include frozen paratha or even flour tortillas in a pinch .
2. Curry : A spiced chicken or beef curry with ample gravy is essential. Leftover curry works well .
3. Vegetables : Common choices are carrots, leeks, cabbage, onions, and chilies .
4. Eggs: Scrambled into the mix for richness .
5. Spices: Sri Lankan curry powder, chili powder, turmeric, and aromatics like ginger, garlic, and curry leaves .

How to Make Kottu Roti at Home

Since replicating the street vendor’s chopping technique is hard, home cooks use a large wok or skillet and wooden spoons to mimic the mixing action . Here’s a simplified method:

1. Prepare the Curry :

• Sauté onions, ginger, garlic, and spices.
• Add chicken, tomatoes, coconut milk, and simmer until tender .

2. Chop the Roti:

• Cut cooked roti into thin strips .

3. Stir-Fry the Base :

• Scramble eggs, then sauté vegetables (carrots, leeks, onions).
• Add curry sauce and shredded chicken .

4. Combine Everything:

• Toss in the roti strips and mix until evenly coated .

Tips for Authentic Flavor

• Use day-old roti for better texture
• Adjust spiciness with chilies or chili flakes .
• Serve hot with extra curry sauce or chili paste on the side .

Why It’s Special

Kottu Roti is more than a meal—it’s a cultural experience, often enjoyed late at night as a hangover cure or comfort food . Its popularity has even inspired songs in Sri Lanka !