Main Course
Kottu Roti with Kombu: Sri Lankan Chopped Flatbread with Seaweed
Original name: Kottu Roti with Kombu

About this dish
Kottu roti is Sri Lanka's beloved street-food rhythm: griddled godhamba roti chopped with vegetables, spices, and often egg or meat. This version folds in kombu, the umami-rich kelp that lends a gentle oceanic depth without overpowering the curry leaves and roasted spices.
It's a weeknight-friendly skillet dish that turns leftover flatbread into something deeply savory and satisfying.
Ingredients
UK and US measurements are both included for every recipe.
Godhamba roti
grain4 large roti, about 400 g total
Imperial measurement: 4 large roti, about 14 oz total
Dried kombu
other10 g
Imperial measurement: 0.35 oz
Cabbage
vegetable200 g
Imperial measurement: 7 oz
Carrots
vegetable150 g
Imperial measurement: 5.3 oz
Scallions
vegetable4 stalks
Eggs
protein2 large
Curry leaves
herb1 sprig, about 10 leaves
Red onion
vegetable1 small, about 100 g
Imperial measurement: 1 small, about 3.5 oz
Garlic
vegetable3 cloves
Ginger
vegetable1 tablespoon
Roasted curry powder
spice2 teaspoons
Turmeric
spice1/2 teaspoon
Coconut oil
fat2 tablespoons
Lime
fruit1 lime
Cilantro
herb2 tablespoons
Salt
seasoningto taste
Method
Rehydrate the kombu
15 minutesPlace the dried kombu in a bowl, cover with 250 ml (1 cup) cold water, and let it soak for 15 minutes until soft and pliable. Remove the kombu, reserving the soaking liquid, and cut it into thin 2 cm (3/4 inch) strips.
Shred and chop the roti
5 minutesStack the godhamba roti and cut them into thin strips, about 2 cm (3/4 inch) wide. Then chop crosswise into shorter pieces, roughly 5 cm (2 inches) long. Set aside.
Prep the vegetables
10 minutesShred the cabbage, julienne the carrots, slice the scallions, and thinly slice the red onion. Mince the garlic and grate the ginger. Pick the curry leaves off the stem.
Heat the skillet and bloom the spices
2 minutesHeat 1 tablespoon of coconut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the red onion, curry leaves, garlic, and ginger. Stir-fry for 1 minute until fragrant, then add the roasted curry powder and turmeric and cook for 30 seconds more.
Add the kombu and vegetables
4 minutesAdd the sliced kombu, cabbage, and carrots to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften but still retain some bite. Pour in 2 tablespoons of the reserved kombu soaking liquid to create a little steam.
Scramble the eggs
2 minutesPush the vegetables to one side of the skillet. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon coconut oil to the empty side, pour in the beaten eggs, and scramble them gently until just set, about 1 minute. Then mix the eggs into the vegetables.
Toss in the roti and finish
3 minutesAdd the chopped roti and scallions to the skillet. Toss everything together continuously for 2 to 3 minutes, using two spatulas or a large spoon, until the roti is heated through and well coated with the spices. Season with salt to taste. Squeeze over fresh lime juice if desired.
Garnish and serve
1 minuteTransfer the kottu roti to serving plates. Scatter with chopped cilantro and serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.
Equipment
- Large skillet or wok
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula or wooden spoon
Nutrition facts
Tips
- Day-old roti works best because it dries out slightly and holds its shape when chopped and stir-fried. Fresh roti can become sticky, so let it sit uncovered for an hour if needed.
- Kombu adds a deep savory note, but a little goes a long way. Stick to the suggested amount and taste before adding more.
- For a spicier version, add a chopped green chili with the onions or a pinch of chili flakes along with the curry powder.
- If you don't have godhamba roti, use paratha or large flour tortillas as a close substitute. Adjust the number based on size.
Serving suggestions
- Serve hot as a main course with lime wedges and a side of coconut sambol or a simple cucumber salad. It also pairs well with a fried egg on top for extra protein.
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Recipe by
Youssef Benali
Specialises in Moroccan cuisineYoussef makes tagine with preserved lemons he aged for 6 months. He is a patient man.
Describe yourself in three words: Patient, fragrant, lemon hands.