Sri Lankan Coconut Roti

A Simple Island Classic – Coconut Roti (Pol Roti)

Sri Lankan coconut roti, locally known as Pol Roti, is one of the island’s most beloved comfort foods. Soft, rustic, and wonderfully aromatic, this traditional flatbread captures the essence of home-style Sri Lankan cooking. Whether served for breakfast, dinner, or an afternoon snack, pol roti pairs beautifully with curries, sambols, and even a splash of warm tea.

The Heart of Sri Lankan Home Cooking

Coconut roti is prized for its simplicity. With just a few pantry staples—flour, grated coconut, green chilies, onion, and salt—you can create a hearty meal that feels authentically Sri Lankan. In rural households, it’s often made fresh each morning, cooked on a warm skillet while the kitchen fills with the aroma of toasted coconut.

Soft on the inside and slightly crisp on the outside, pol roti is nourishing, filling, and perfect for anyone who loves natural flavors with minimal fuss.

Sri Lankan Coconut Roti (Pol Roti) Recipe

Ingredients (6–8 Rotis)

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup fresh grated coconut (or desiccated coconut soaked in warm water)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1–2 green chilies, sliced
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp oil or melted butter
  • Water (as needed)

Optional Add-ins

  • Chopped curry leaves
  • Grated carrots

Instructions

  1. Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, combine flour, coconut, onion, green chilies, and salt. Add optional ingredients if desired.

  1. Add Water and Form a Dough

Slowly add warm water and mix until a soft, non-sticky dough forms.
Knead lightly for 2–3 minutes.

  1. Shape the Rotis

Divide the dough into equal balls.
Flatten each one into a round disc—about ½ cm thick.

  1. Cook the Rotis

Heat a skillet or tawa on medium heat.

Place the roti and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side.

Apply a little oil for a softer, golden finish.

Serving Suggestions

Coconut roti tastes best with:

Its versatility makes it suitable for any meal of the day.

Why Pol Roti is Loved Worldwide

With the rise of global interest in Sri Lankan cuisine, coconut roti has become a favorite abroad too. It’s naturally dairy-free, easy to make, and flexible enough to adapt with herbs, spices, or vegetables. For anyone wanting an authentic taste of Sri Lanka, pol roti is one of the simplest dishes to start with.

 

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Sri Lankan Coconut Roti