Kottu

Chicken Kottu

Kottu

Kottu, also known as Koththu Rotti or Kottu Roti, is a popular Sri Lankan dish made from Godhamba roti (a type of flatbread), vegetables, egg, and/or meat, and spices. The dish is known for its rich flavors and the unique way it is prepared, making it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Kottu is often considered a street food staple but can also be found in restaurants across Sri Lanka and in other countries with a significant Sri Lankan diaspora.

History

The origins of Kottu are somewhat unclear, but it is believed to have been invented in the 1970s as a creative way to repurpose leftover roti. It quickly gained popularity across the country for its delicious taste and the theatrical preparation method, where the ingredients are chopped and mixed on a flat iron skillet using two metal blades, creating a distinctive clanging sound that can be heard from a distance.

Ingredients

The basic ingredients of Kottu include:

• Godhamba roti - A type of Sri Lankan flatbread made from flour, water, and salt.
• Vegetables - Commonly used vegetables include carrots, leeks, cabbage, and onions.
• Eggs - Beaten eggs are often added to the mix to provide additional flavor and texture.
• Meat - While chicken, beef, and mutton are the most common meats used, there are also vegetarian versions of Kottu.
• Spices and curry - The dish is seasoned with various spices and sometimes mixed with a curry sauce to enhance its flavor.

Preparation

The preparation of Kottu is as much a performance as it is a cooking method. The cook starts by chopping the godhamba roti into small pieces. Then, the vegetables, meat, and eggs are added to the skillet and chopped into the mix. Spices and curry sauce are then added, and the entire mixture is chopped and mixed vigorously. The rhythmic chopping sound is a hallmark of Kottu being prepared and attracts customers to the stall or kitchen.

Variations

There are several variations of Kottu, including:

• Cheese Kottu - Includes cheese as a topping or mixed into the Kottu.
• Seafood Kottu - Made with various types of seafood such as shrimp, squid, or fish.
• Vegetarian Kottu - Excludes meat and relies on vegetables and eggs for the filling.

Cultural Significance

Kottu has become a symbol of Sri Lankan culture and is a must-try dish for visitors. It embodies the multicultural influences on Sri Lankan cuisine, incorporating elements from Indian and Malay culinary traditions. Kottu is not only a beloved comfort food but also a dish that brings people together, often shared among friends and family.

See Also

• Sri Lankan cuisine
• Street food
• Roti
• Curry