Kottu roti is a popular street food in Sri Lanka, known for its spicy, savory flavors and satisfying crunch. This dish features stir-fried vegetables, meat (often chicken), and a flatbread called roti, which is cut into shreds and tossed together. The combination of textures and flavors makes kottu roti a truly unique and delicious experience.
In this recipe, we’ll explore the classic Sri Lankan chicken kottu roti. We’ll guide you through the preparation of the ingredients, the cooking process, and the assembly of this flavorful dish. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure!
WHAT IS KOTTU ROTI ?
Hypothetically, this dish has become Sri Lanka’s national food, found at every corner and in every food shop throughout the country. Originally a street food favorite, Kottu Roti’s popularity has even led to its inclusion on the menus of five-star hotels.
A visit to Sri Lanka isn’t complete without sampling this spicy delight. Designed as a stand-and-eat, one-pot meal, it’s impossible to miss Kottu Roti due to the distinctive noise made by street vendors. Prepared on a flat grill with two sharp scrapers, the roti is shredded as the scrapers bash against the hot surface. The unmistakable “Takata Takata Takata tak” sound signals that Kottu Roti is being made. While its official name is Kottu Roti, locals often shorten it to ‘Kottu’ or ‘Koththu.’
DIFFERENT SRI LANKAN KOTTU ROTI OPTIONS
Chicken kottu
Egg kottu
Vegetable kottu
Red meat kottu ( Beef, goat)
Cheese kottu; this was a recent addition to the family of kottu
CAN I MAKE KOTTU ROTI AT HOME?
Yes, it’s surprisingly simple and easy to make. Here’s a big secret: Ever wondered how five-star hotels prepare Kottu Roti for room service? You might think they’re using a traditional Kottu grill, but that’s not the case. Instead, they typically have pre-shredded Kottu Roti and all the condiments ready to go. The chefs simply cook it up in a wok or pan, which is the exact method I’ve used in my recipe.
STEP-BY-STEP RECIPE FOR MAKING KOTTU ROTI
EQUIPMENT
- Pots and Pans
- Cooktop
INGREDIENTS
Gothamba Roti
- 2 cups All-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup Water (tap)
- Pinch of salt
- Oil (enough to cover the dough; canola or vegetable oil)
Kottu Roti
- 400 g Shredded Roti
- 2 Carrots, shredded
- 3 tbsp Red onion, chopped
- 2 sprigs Spring onion, finely sliced
- 1 tsp Ginger, chopped
- 1 tsp Garlic, chopped
- 1 tsp Red chili, chopped
- 10 Curry leaves, chopped
- 2 Eggs
INSTRUCTIONS
Gothamba Roti
- Mix flour, water, and salt in a bowl until combined.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-6 minutes until smooth and soft (add flour if too sticky).
- Divide the dough into 6 equal portions and shape them into smooth balls using your palm.
- Submerge the dough balls in oil in a deep tray and let them rest at room temperature for 2 hours.
- After resting, flatten each dough ball on a clean surface with your palm and fingertips into thin, circular rotis.
- Heat a flat pan over medium heat and cook the rotis on both sides until done.
Kottu Roti
- Stack the rotis, roll them together, and slice thinly.
- Prepare a thick boneless chicken curry, shred the chicken using a fork, and separate it from the gravy.
- Heat 3 tbsp of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, ginger, carrots, chili, and curry leaves, cooking for 2 minutes.
- Create a small space in the pan and scramble the eggs, then mix them with the vegetables.
- Add the shredded roti, shredded chicken, and curry gravy. Mix thoroughly.
- Serve warm.
CONCLUSION
Sri Lankan chicken kottu roti is a delicious and satisfying dish that showcases the vibrant flavors and culinary traditions of Sri Lanka. With its combination of tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and crispy roti, it’s no wonder why this street food is so beloved.
By following this recipe, you can recreate the authentic taste of kottu roti right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this dish is a great opportunity to explore new flavors and create a truly memorable meal.
