Kottu Roti

★★★★★ 278 Ratings

Description:

Kottu Roti is a beloved Sri Lankan street food made with shredded roti, vegetables, eggs, and meat (optional). It’s cooked on a flat grill with rhythmic chopping sounds, making it a unique and interactive culinary experience. The dish is flavorful, hearty, and customizable to suit your taste.

Ingredients:

• 4 rotis (shredded into small pieces)
• 200g chicken, beef, or mutton (cooked and shredded, optional)
• 1 onion (thinly sliced)
• 1 carrot (julienned or grated)
• 1/2 cabbage (thinly shredded)
• 2-3 green chilies (chopped, adjust to taste)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1-inch ginger (minced)
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp turmeric powder
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp curry powder
• 1 sprig curry leaves
• 2 tbsp oil (coconut or vegetable oil)
• Salt to taste
• Soy sauce or chili sauce (optional, for added flavor)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Shred the rotis into small pieces and set aside.
2. If using meat, cook and shred it beforehand. You can use leftover curry or grilled meat.
3. Chop all vegetables (onion, carrot, cabbage, green chilies, garlic, and ginger).

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables and Meat

1. Heat oil in a large pan or flat grill over medium heat.
2. Add curry leaves, onions, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until the onions are golden brown.
3. Add green chilies, carrots, and cabbage. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
4. If using meat, add it now and mix well.

Step 3: Add the Eggs

1. Push the vegetable and meat mixture to one side of the pan.
2. Crack the eggs into the empty space and scramble them.
3. Once the eggs are cooked, mix them with the vegetables and meat.

Step 4: Add the Roti and Spices

1. Add the shredded roti to the pan.
2. Sprinkle turmeric powder, chili powder, curry powder, and salt over the roti.
3. Mix everything thoroughly, ensuring the roti is well-coated with the spices and vegetables.

Step 5: Cook and Chop

1. Use two spatulas or metal blades to chop and mix the roti continuously. This step is essential for the authentic texture and flavor of Kottu Roti.
2. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the roti is heated through and slightly crispy.

Step 6: Adjust Seasoning

1. Taste and adjust salt and spices if needed.
2. For extra flavor, add a splash of soy sauce or chili sauce.

Step 7: Serve

1. Transfer the Kottu Roti to a plate.
2. Serve hot with chili sauce, ketchup, or a side of curry.

Tips for Perfect Kottu Roti:

• Use day-old roti for the best texture, as fresh roti can become too soft.
• You can customize the dish by adding cheese, sausages, or seafood.
• The rhythmic chopping sound is part of the Kottu Roti experience. If you’re cooking at home, use two spatulas to mimic the traditional method.
• For a vegetarian version, skip the meat and add more vegetables like bell peppers, beans, or leeks.

Cultural Significance:

Kottu Roti is more than just a dish; it’s a cultural icon of Sri Lanka. Originating as a way to use leftover roti and curry, it has become a staple street food enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. The rhythmic chopping sounds of Kottu Roti being prepared are a familiar and comforting part of Sri Lanka’s urban soundscape. It’s often enjoyed as a quick meal or late-night snack, symbolizing the island’s vibrant street food culture.