Cheese Roti
Street Food • Sri Lanka
ගැන Cheese Roti
Godhamba roti stuffed with melted cheese — modern short-eat.
How to Make Cheese Roti (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Cheese Roti is a beloved Sri Lankan street food that brings together the comforting flavors of freshly made flatbread and creamy cheese. Originating from vibrant roadside eateries and bustling food stalls across Sri Lanka, this dish is a modern twist on the classic pol roti (coconut roti), offering a delightful fusion of tradition and indulgence. Sri Lankan Cheese Roti is known for its crispy, golden exterior and warm, gooey cheese filling, making it a popular choice among both locals and visitors seeking an authentic taste of the island. Perfect for breakfast or lunch, this vegetarian roti is quick to prepare, highly satisfying, and packed with flavor. Its simple ingredients—whole wheat flour, fresh grated coconut, green chilies, and local cheese—highlight the essence of Sri Lankan home cooking, where humble pantry staples are transformed into memorable meals. Cheese Roti is enjoyed by people of all ages and is often paired with spicy pol sambol or a tangy onion salad, making it a versatile addition to any meal. If you’re seeking a healthy, easy-to-make dish that captures the spirit of Sri Lanka, Cheese Roti is an excellent choice.
Ingredients(for 1 medium Cheese Roti per serving)
- 1 cup Whole wheat flour (Atta flour)
- 1/4 cup Fresh grated coconut (Pol)
- 1/2 cup Low-fat cheese (Shredded)
- 1 Green chilies (Finely chopped) - optional
- 1 small Onion (Finely chopped)
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper (Freshly ground) - optional
- as needed Water (To form dough)
- 1 tbsp Coconut oil (For cooking) - optional
Instructions
- 1
In a large bowl, combine whole wheat flour, grated coconut, chopped onion, green chilies, salt, and pepper.
5 minutes
Mix dry ingredients thoroughly for even flavor distribution.
- 2
Gradually add water and knead to form a soft, pliable dough. Rest the dough for 5 minutes covered.
5 minutes
Do not overwork the dough to keep rotis tender.
- 3
Divide dough into 4 equal balls. Flatten each ball into a 6-inch disc using your hands or a rolling pin.
5 minutes
Use a little flour if dough is sticky.
- 4
Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on one disc, then cover with another disc and press edges to seal. Repeat for remaining dough balls.
3 minutes
Seal edges well to prevent cheese from leaking during cooking.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This Cheese Roti recipe is made healthier by using whole wheat flour instead of refined flour, increasing fiber content and supporting digestive health. The inclusion of low-fat cheese reduces overall fat and calories, while coconut oil is used sparingly for its heart-healthy fats. Minimal oil and the absence of refined ingredients make this street food favorite a balanced and nutritious meal option for breakfast or lunch.
Cheese Roti offers a wholesome combination of complex carbohydrates from whole wheat flour, healthy fats from fresh coconut, and protein from low-fat cheese. The use of green chilies and onions adds micronutrients such as vitamin C, antioxidants, and minerals. Coconut is a good source of dietary fiber and medium-chain triglycerides, which support metabolism. Opting for low-fat cheese helps keep saturated fat in check, making this dish suitable for calorie-conscious eaters.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: For extra flavor, add a pinch of cumin seeds to the dough.
- 💡Tip 2: Use freshly grated coconut for the most authentic taste.
- 💡Tip 3: Press the edges of the roti well to prevent cheese from oozing out during cooking.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover Cheese Roti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat on a dry skillet for best texture. Avoid microwaving to maintain crispiness.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 305.0 kcal |
| Protein | 9.4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 26.0 g |
| Total Fat | 16.2 g |
| Fiber | 1.4 g |