Cheese Kottu
Kottu • Sri Lanka
ගැන Cheese Kottu
Kottu loaded with melted cheese — modern Colombo reinvention of the classic.
How to Make Cheese Kottu (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Cheese Kottu is a beloved street food from Sri Lanka, celebrated for its irresistible fusion of chopped roti, savory chicken, crisp vegetables, and creamy cheese. Originating from the bustling streets and night markets of Sri Lanka, Kottu is a staple in all corners of the island, enjoyed by people from all walks of life. Its unique preparation—where ingredients are chopped and mixed on a hot griddle—creates a delightful symphony of flavors and textures. This healthy Cheese Kottu recipe offers a lighter yet authentic take on the classic, using lean chicken breast, reduced-fat cheese, and plenty of fresh vegetables. It delivers the comforting, satisfying taste Sri Lankans love, while being mindful of calories and macronutrients. The dish is savory, slightly spicy, and creamy, making it a crowd-pleaser at family dinners or festive gatherings. Cheese Kottu captures the spirit of Sri Lankan cuisine—vibrant, flavorful, and full of heart—while fitting perfectly into a modern, health-conscious lifestyle.
Ingredients(for 1 generous bowl (about 300g) per serving)
- 2 large Gothamba roti (Sri Lankan flatbread, cut into strips)
- 120g Chicken breast (skinless, boneless, diced)
- 40g Reduced-fat mozzarella cheese (grated)
- 1/2 medium Carrot (shredded)
- 1/2 cup Green cabbage (finely sliced)
- 1/4 cup Red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 cup Leeks (sliced, locally known as 'rathu kola')
- 1 small Green chili (finely sliced) - optional
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp Sri Lankan curry powder (mild or spicy)
- 1 small Tomato (chopped)
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper
- to taste Salt
- 1 tbsp Sunflower oil (for stir-frying)
Instructions
- 1
Heat sunflower oil in a large nonstick pan or wok over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, green chili (if using), and sliced onions. Sauté until fragrant and translucent.
3 minutes
Stir frequently to prevent burning and enhance aroma.
- 2
Add diced chicken breast to the pan. Season with curry powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir-fry until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned.
5 minutes
Cut chicken into small pieces for faster, even cooking.
- 3
Add shredded carrot, cabbage, leeks, and chopped tomato. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until vegetables soften but still retain a slight crunch.
4 minutes
Do not overcook vegetables; crispness adds texture.
- 4
Add the sliced gothamba roti strips to the pan. Mix thoroughly with chicken and vegetables, ensuring the roti is evenly coated with spices and juices.
3 minutes
Separate roti strips with spatula to avoid clumping.
Why This Dish is Healthy
By using lean chicken, reduced-fat cheese, and plenty of fiber-rich vegetables, this Cheese Kottu is lower in calories and saturated fat compared to traditional versions. The use of minimal oil and no added sugars makes it suitable for weight management and heart health. This recipe is a great choice for anyone seeking authentic Sri Lankan flavor without compromising on nutrition.
This Cheese Kottu recipe offers a balanced mix of macronutrients—providing 10g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 13.4g fat per serving. The inclusion of lean chicken breast supports muscle repair, while fresh vegetables add dietary fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, plus essential minerals like potassium. Reduced-fat cheese contributes calcium and protein with less saturated fat, making this a wholesome meal for most diets.
Pro Tips
- 💡Use day-old roti for best texture; fresh roti can become soggy.
- 💡Chop ingredients uniformly to ensure even cooking and a harmonious bite.
- 💡Adjust cheese and spice levels to suit your taste and dietary preferences.
Storage & Serving
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a nonstick pan or microwave until hot. Cheese Kottu is best enjoyed fresh, as the roti may lose its texture upon storage.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 255.0 kcal |
| Protein | 10.0 g |
| Carbohydrates | 24.0 g |
| Total Fat | 13.4 g |
| Fiber | 1.4 g |