Iddiyapam

Idiyappam or in english called string hoppers is a traditional Sri Lankan noodle like cuisine that is steamed. The word Idiyappam translates to 'steamed rice flour'. This dish is also called 'noolappam' where in Tamil the word 'nool' means string. 

The ingredients to make Idiyappam are rice flour, salt and water. It can be eaten for breakfast, lunch or dinner. There are various curries that can be eaten with Idiyappam. Tradionally, it can be eaten with potato curry, sambol, fish curry or any type of meat curry. In some parts of Kerala, Idiyappam is served with sweet coconut milk,however this is not usually served during lunchtime. The Iddiyappa thattu or the Iddiyappa Kuzhal is what is used to make this dish. 
Tips to make Idiyappam flour according to mum - soak the rice in water for about 4 hours and then drain it. After, spread the rice on on newspaper and allow to dry for about 30 mins. After dry, grind to find powder and roast for about 10 minutes. 
- Give this dish a try guys! Quite filling for breakfast :)
- Sanjitha

Appam

 Appam also known as hopper is a popular authentic srilankan dish, which is often eaten as a breakfast &/or dinner depending on its flavour.

This delicious dish is made from fermented rice flour, yeast & a little sugar. Recipes can be adapted according to one's choice of filling. There are many different types of filling to suit dietary requirements for various times of the day. As a light breakfast meal usually Appam is served plain with a sambal on side &/or with a filling of egg. For a heavier, dinnertime filling, appam can be served with a coconut milk filling, usually eaten with jaggery.

The appam appears as a crispy bowl with a soft base (where filling is added). In order to create this interesting appearance it is usually made in an Appa Chatti allowing for the traditional unique appam shape.The contrast of textures will be sure to tantalise your tastebuds.

Although the procedure to create the appam batter is a little tricky & lengthy, cooking it is rather easy & the end result is nothing less than a mouthwatering meal.

I don't know about other Srilankan households, but appam is definitely the most awaited meal at my house :D

Appa Satti

Egg Appam

Plain Appam

By Shahana S

Pittu

Pittu is a well-known Srilankan dish that is highly popular amongst Tamil speaking areas, such as South India & Srilanka.

Pittu is usually eaten as a breakfast &/or dinner dish amongst most families.

This mouth-watering dish is a mixture of fine rice flour & water, which is steamed & layered with coconut shavings in between & most usually take the form of a cylinder or free form. Not only does this dish have an interesting shape in appearance but it is also vegan friendly, thus kind to the tastebuds of all vegetarians J

Pittu can be served with a variety of side dishes, from fresh fruits like mangos & jackfruit to various curries to spicy potato fries.

Although special cooking utensils, namely the pittu kuzhal are necessary for the making of this delicacy, the wonders your taste buds will experience with its unique textures & flavors is one you wouldn’t want to miss!

Pop by your nearest Srilankan restaurant & give this delicious dish a try J

By Shahana Satchi