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String Hopper Kottu
Kottu • Sri Lanka
ගැන String Hopper Kottu
Kottu made from crumbled string hoppers instead of godhamba roti — softer, lighter texture.
How to Make String Hopper Kottu (Traditional & Healthy Version)
String Hopper Kottu is a beloved Sri Lankan street food that brings together the delicate texture of steamed string hoppers (idiappam) with the bold, aromatic flavors of kottu. This dish is enjoyed across all regions of Sri Lanka, known for its satisfying, wholesome bite and complex layers of spices. Originating as a creative way to repurpose leftover string hoppers, String Hopper Kottu has evolved into a staple for breakfast or lunch, admired for its versatility and nutrition. The dish features shredded string hoppers stir-fried with lean chicken, fresh vegetables, eggs, and a fragrant blend of traditional Sri Lankan spices. It delivers a delightful balance of savory, spicy, and subtly sweet notes, appealing to both locals and adventurous food lovers worldwide. String Hopper Kottu is a healthy alternative to heavier dishes, thanks to the use of steamed rice flour noodles and minimal oil. It's a great choice for anyone seeking authentic Sri Lankan cuisine that’s both satisfying and mindful of calories.
Ingredients(for 1 bowl (approx. 200g) per serving)
- 6 pieces String hoppers (idiappam) (shredded)
- 100g Skinless chicken breast (cut into small cubes)
- 1 Egg (beaten)
- 1 small Carrot (julienned)
- 1/2 cup Leeks (thinly sliced)
- 1 small Onion (finely chopped)
- 1 Green chili (sliced)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp Curry powder (Sri Lankan roasted)
- 1 tbsp Soy sauce (low sodium) - optional
- 1 tbsp Coconut oil
- to taste Salt and black pepper
Instructions
- 1
Shred the string hoppers into thin strips using your hands and set aside.
2 minutes
Use fresh string hoppers for best texture.
- 2
Heat coconut oil in a large non-stick pan over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, and green chili. Sauté until fragrant and translucent.
3 minutes
Keep heat moderate to avoid burning the garlic.
- 3
Add the chicken cubes to the pan. Stir-fry until the chicken is cooked through and lightly golden.
5 minutes
Cut chicken into small, even pieces for even cooking.
- 4
Push the chicken and vegetables to the side of the pan. Pour in the beaten egg and scramble, then mix everything together.
2 minutes
Scramble the egg until just set for a tender texture.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This dish is a healthy choice because it combines lean protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and low-GI rice noodles, making it suitable for balanced diets and weight management. The recipe uses steamed rather than fried components, reducing excess calories. Coconut oil, used in moderation, provides beneficial medium-chain triglycerides. Overall, String Hopper Kottu offers a nutritious, wholesome meal packed with flavor but light on calories.
Each serving of String Hopper Kottu provides approximately 175 calories, making it a light yet filling meal option. It delivers 8.4g of protein for muscle health, 24g of carbohydrates for energy, and 5.6g of healthy fats mainly from coconut oil. The inclusion of lean chicken and egg boosts protein content, while fresh vegetables supply dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, and essential minerals like potassium. The use of minimal oil and steamed string hoppers helps keep saturated fat and cholesterol low.
Pro Tips
- 💡Prep all ingredients before cooking for a seamless process.
- 💡Use day-old string hoppers for a firmer texture.
- 💡Customize spice level to taste by adjusting chili and curry powder.
Storage & Serving
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat with a splash of water to maintain moisture. Best consumed fresh.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 175.0 kcal |
| Protein | 8.4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 24.0 g |
| Total Fat | 5.6 g |
| Fiber | 1.4 g |