Discover the authentic taste of Sri Lanka with this easy-to-follow recipe for String Hoppers (Indi Appa). These delicate, steamed rice noodle nests are traditionally served with flavorful coconut sambol and aromatic curry. Perfect for a wholesome breakfast or a delightful meal any time of the day. Try this recipe for a taste of Sri Lankan cuisine at home!

Ingredients:

- For the String Hoppers:

 - 2 cups rice flour

 - 1 ½ cups warm water

 - ½ tsp salt

- For the Coconut Sambol:

 - 1 cup grated fresh coconut

 - 1 small red onion, finely chopped

 - 2-3 green chilies, finely chopped

 - 1 tsp red chili powder

 - ½ tsp salt

 - Juice of 1 lime

- For the Curry:

 - 1 tbsp vegetable oil

 - 1 onion, finely chopped

 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

 - 1 tbsp ginger, minced

 - 1 tbsp curry powder

 - 1 tsp turmeric powder

 - 1 can (400ml) coconut milk

 - 1 large potato, diced

 - 1 large carrot, sliced

 - 1 cup green beans, chopped

 - Salt to taste

Instructions:

Prepare the String Hoppers:

  - In a mixing bowl, combine rice flour, salt, and warm water. Stir until a smooth, thick batter forms.

  - Fill a string hopper maker with the batter and press out the noodles onto a steaming rack or tray in a circular pattern.

  - Steam for 8-10 minutes, or until the noodles are cooked and firm. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Make the Coconut Sambol:

  - In a bowl, mix the grated coconut, chopped onion, green chilies, red chili powder, salt, and lime juice. Adjust seasoning to taste and set aside.

Prepare the Curry:

  - Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, and ginger, and sauté until fragrant and golden.

  - Stir in curry powder and turmeric, cooking for another minute.

  - Add coconut milk, potatoes, carrots, and green beans. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until vegetables are tender. Season with salt to taste.

Serve:

  - Arrange the string hoppers on plates. Serve with a side of coconut sambol and curry. Enjoy your authentic Sri Lankan meal!

This recipe provides a taste of traditional Sri Lankan cuisine with its savory and spicy flavors, perfect for any meal of the day.

Nutritional values

For the String Hoppers

Rice Flour (2 cups)

- Calories: 600

- Carbohydrates: 132g

- Protein: 6g

- Fat: 0g

Benefits: Rice flour is a good source of carbohydrates and provides energy. It is gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten intolerance.

Warm Water (1 ½ cups)

- Calories: 0

Benefits: Provides hydration and helps to bind the rice flour to form a dough.

Salt (½ teaspoon)

- Calories: 0

- Sodium: 1,200mg (depends on the brand)

Benefits: Enhances flavor, but should be used in moderation to manage sodium intake.

For the Coconut Sambol

Grated Fresh Coconut (1 cup)

- Calories: ~200

- Carbohydrates: 8g

- Fiber: 7g

- Fat: 20g

Benefits: Fresh coconut is high in healthy fats and dietary fiber. It provides essential minerals like potassium, magnesium, and iron, supporting digestion and heart health.

Small Red Onion (1, finely chopped)

- Calories: 45

- Carbohydrates: 11g

- Fiber: 1g

Benefits: Onions provide antioxidants and support heart health and digestion. They add flavor and nutrients to the sambol.

Green Chilies (2-3, finely chopped)

- Calories: ~10

- Carbohydrates: 2g

Benefits: Add spiciness and contain capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and support digestive health. They are also rich in vitamins A and C.

Red Chili Powder (1 teaspoon)

- Calories: 6

Benefits: Adds extra heat and contains capsaicin, which can aid metabolism and digestive health.

Salt (½ teaspoon)

- Calories: 0

- Sodium: ~1,200mg

Benefits: Enhances flavor, but should be used in moderation.

Juice of 1 Lime

- Calories: 10

- Carbohydrates: 3g

Benefits: Adds tanginess and is rich in vitamin C, supporting immune function and enhancing iron absorption.

For the Curry

Vegetable Oil (1 tablespoon)

- Calories: 120

- Fat: 14g

Benefits: Provides richness and helps in cooking. It contains healthy fats that can enhance flavor and texture.

Onion (1, finely chopped)

- Calories: 45

- Carbohydrates: 11g

- Fiber: 1g

Benefits: Adds flavor and provides antioxidants that support heart health and digestion.

Garlic (2 cloves, minced)

- Calories: 8

- Carbohydrates: 2g

Benefits: Has antioxidant properties and supports heart health and immune function.

Ginger (1 tablespoon, minced)

- Calories: 5

- Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits: Provides anti-inflammatory benefits and supports digestion.

Curry Powder (1 tablespoon)

- Calories: ~15

Benefits: Adds flavor and contains a mix of spices that can have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Turmeric Powder (1 teaspoon)

- Calories: 4

Benefits: Contains curcumin, known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Coconut Milk (1 can, 400ml)

- Calories: 400

- Fat: 40g

- Carbohydrates: 6g

Benefits: Adds creaminess and healthy fats to the curry, providing flavor and a rich texture.

Potato (1 large, diced)

- Calories: 160

- Carbohydrates: 37g

- Fiber: 4g

Benefits: Provides energy and essential nutrients like vitamin C and potassium.

Carrot (1 large, sliced)

- Calories: ~30

- Carbohydrates: 7g

- Fiber: 2g

Benefits: Rich in beta-carotene (vitamin A), which supports vision and immune health.

Green Beans (1 cup, chopped)

- Calories: 40

- Carbohydrates: 9g

- Fiber: 4g

Benefits: Provides vitamins A, C, and K, along with fiber that supports digestion and overall health.

Salt (to taste)

- Calories: 0

- Sodium: Varies based on amount used

Benefits: Enhances flavor but should be used in moderation to manage sodium intake.

This meal includes a variety of ingredients that contribute different flavors and nutritional benefits. String hoppers are a good source of carbohydrates, while the coconut sambol adds healthy fats, fiber, and a range of vitamins. The curry contains a mix of vegetables and spices that offer vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Overall, this combination of dishes provides balanced nutrition with a rich flavor profile.