One of popular breakfast or dinner item in Sri Lanka ‘ pol roti ‘ – By Malsha – eLanka
Sri Lankan pol roti is a traditional flatbread made with a mixture of flour, grated coconut, onions, green chilies, and other aromatic spices. It is a popular breakfast or dinner item in Sri Lanka. Here’s a recipe for making pol roti:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 cup grated coconut
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh coriander leaves, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder (optional)
- Water, as needed
- Vegetable oil or ghee for cooking
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, grated coconut, chopped onion, green chilies, coriander leaves, salt, and turmeric powder (if using). Mix well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Gradually add water, a little at a time, and knead the mixture to form a soft and pliable dough. The amount of water needed may vary, so add it gradually until you achieve the desired consistency.
- Once the dough is formed, cover it and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes. This will make it easier to roll out the rotis.
- After resting, divide the dough into small lemon-sized balls. Take one ball at a time and flatten it slightly with your hands.
- Dust a clean surface or rolling board with flour to prevent sticking. Place a dough ball on the surface and roll it out into a thin, round roti of about 6-8 inches in diameter.
- Heat a tawa or a flat griddle over medium heat. Once hot, place the rolled roti on the tawa and cook for about 1-2 minutes on one side until you see small bubbles forming.
- Flip the roti and drizzle a little oil or ghee around the edges. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until both sides are golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the pol roti from the tawa and place it on a plate. If desired, lightly press the roti with a clean cloth to make it softer.
- Repeat the process with the remaining dough balls, rolling and cooking each roti individually.
- Serve the pol roti hot with your favorite curry, chutney, or sambal. They are often enjoyed with Sri Lankan dhal curry, coconut sambal, or seeni sambol.
Pol roti can be customized by adding ingredients like chopped curry leaves, garlic, or grated carrots for additional flavor and texture. It is a delicious and filling dish that showcases the unique flavors of Sri Lankan cuisine.
Enjoy your homemade pol roti!