Sri Lankan String Hoppers Recipe (Idiyappam) | Traditional Breakfast Guide
Sri Lankan · Breakfast

Sri Lankan String Hoppers Recipe (Idiyappam) | Traditional Breakfast Guide

Learn how to make authentic Sri Lankan string hoppers (idiyappam) at home. This traditional breakfast dish is soft, light, and perfect with sambol and curry.

Prep
25 min
Cook
15 min
Serves
4
Difficulty
Hard

Method

1

Prep Flour

In a large bowl, mix rice flour and salt evenly.
2

Add Water

Gradually add hot water while mixing to form a soft dough.
3

Knead

Knead the dough until smooth and not sticky.
4

Load Press

Fill the dough into a string hopper press (idiyappam maker).

How to use Idiyappam maker for string hoppers
5

Grease Mats

Lightly grease the string hopper mats or steamer trays.
6

Press Discs

Press the dough in circular motions to form thin noodle-like discs.
7

Arrange for Steaming

Place the prepared discs into a steamer.
8

Steam

Steam for about 8–10 minutes until cooked and soft.
9

Cool

Remove from the steamer and let cool slightly.
10

Serve

Serve warm with coconut sambol, dhal curry, or kiri hodi.

String hoppers on banana leaf serving

Cook’s tips

  • Use roasted rice flour for a better texture and traditional flavor.
  • Ensure the water is boiling hot to partially gelatinize the rice flour.
  • Don't overcook in the steamer or they will become gummy.

Recipe notes

Take your kitchen to the tropical paradise of Sri Lanka! Traditional Sri Lankan breakfast string hoppers

Complete your breakfast journey with our Authentic Japanese Tamago Omelette for a truly global start to your day!

Frequently asked questions

Can I make white string hoppers?

Yes, just use white rice flour. Red rice flour is used for the red variety.

Why is my dough too hard?

You likely need a bit more hot water. The dough should be soft enough to squeeze through the press easily.