How to Make String Hoppers (Traditional & Healthy Version)
String Hoppers, or 'Idiyappam' as locally known in Sri Lanka, are delicate steamed rice noodle discs that have been a breakfast staple across the island for generations. This dish embodies the simplicity and elegance of Sri Lankan cuisine, offering a gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan-friendly option that pairs perfectly with coconut sambol or mild curries. With roots reaching deep into the cultural fabric of Sri Lanka, String Hoppers are celebrated not just for their taste but also for their versatility, making them a popular choice for family gatherings, festive occasions, and daily meals alike. The process of making String Hoppers involves pressing a rice flour dough through a special mould to create fine noodle threads, which are then steamed until tender. The result is a light, airy, and subtly fragrant flat noodle cake that absorbs flavors beautifully. Traditionally served with coconut-based sides, String Hoppers are prized for their gentle taste and ease of digestion. For health-conscious eaters, this dish provides an excellent alternative to heavy breads or fried foods, packing nutrition without excess calories. Whether you are exploring Sri Lankan food for the first time or seeking to recreate an authentic experience at home, String Hoppers offer a wholesome, low-calorie meal that brings the warmth and hospitality of Sri Lankan kitchens to your table.
Ingredients
- 2 cups Rice flour (Use roasted rice flour for best results)
- 1 cup Warm water (Adjust as needed for dough consistency)
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Coconut oil (Optional for greasing steaming trays)
- 2 tbsp Grated coconut (For serving (Pol Sambol))
- 1 String Hopper mould (Idiyappam press)
- 2-4 Steaming trays (Idiyappam mats)
- To serve Coconut sambol (Traditional Sri Lankan condiment)
- To serve Mild curry (Vegetable or lentil curry)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · In a large mixing bowl
In a large mixing bowl, combine roasted rice flour and salt. Gradually add warm water, mixing continuously to form a soft, non-sticky dough.
Step 2 · Knead the dough until smooth and free of lumps
Knead the dough until smooth and free of lumps. The dough should be pliable but not wet.
Step 3 · Fill the String Hopper mould with the dough and squeeze onto grease...
Fill the String Hopper mould with the dough and squeeze onto greased steaming trays or mats in spiral patterns to form small discs.
Step 4 · Place the trays in a steamer and steam for 8-10 minutes until the S...
Place the trays in a steamer and steam for 8-10 minutes until the String Hoppers are cooked through and springy to the touch.
Step 5 · Remove String Hoppers from trays and serve warm with grated coconut
Remove String Hoppers from trays and serve warm with grated coconut, coconut sambol, or mild curry.
Step 6 · Optional: Brush with a little coconut oil for extra flavor and soft...
Optional: Brush with a little coconut oil for extra flavor and softness.
Why this recipe is healthy
String Hoppers are an excellent choice for calorie-conscious eaters, as they are steamed and not fried, keeping fat content minimal. The use of whole rice flour ensures complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. When paired with coconut or vegetable sides, String Hoppers provide additional nutrients and antioxidants, making them a balanced, wholesome meal suitable for vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets. Their lightness supports healthy digestion and portion control.
A note on tradition
String Hoppers are enjoyed throughout Sri Lanka, from bustling city markets to rural homes. They are most commonly served for breakfast, but also feature on festive tables and during special occasions such as Sinhala and Tamil New Year. Their preparation is often a family activity, with generations gathering to press and steam the delicate noodle cakes, reflecting the communal spirit of Sri Lankan cuisine.