String Hoppers
Hoppers • Sri Lanka
ගැන String Hoppers
Steamed lace-like rice noodles — served with kiri hodi, pol sambol, and a curry.
How to Make String Hoppers (Traditional & Healthy Version)
String Hoppers, or 'Idiyappam' as locally known in Sri Lanka, are delicate steamed rice noodle discs that have been a breakfast staple across the island for generations. This dish embodies the simplicity and elegance of Sri Lankan cuisine, offering a gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan-friendly option that pairs perfectly with coconut sambol or mild curries. With roots reaching deep into the cultural fabric of Sri Lanka, String Hoppers are celebrated not just for their taste but also for their versatility, making them a popular choice for family gatherings, festive occasions, and daily meals alike. The process of making String Hoppers involves pressing a rice flour dough through a special mould to create fine noodle threads, which are then steamed until tender. The result is a light, airy, and subtly fragrant flat noodle cake that absorbs flavors beautifully. Traditionally served with coconut-based sides, String Hoppers are prized for their gentle taste and ease of digestion. For health-conscious eaters, this dish provides an excellent alternative to heavy breads or fried foods, packing nutrition without excess calories. Whether you are exploring Sri Lankan food for the first time or seeking to recreate an authentic experience at home, String Hoppers offer a wholesome, low-calorie meal that brings the warmth and hospitality of Sri Lankan kitchens to your table.
Ingredients(for 4-5 String Hoppers per serving)
- 2 cups Rice flour (Use roasted rice flour for best results)
- 1 cup Warm water (Adjust as needed for dough consistency)
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Coconut oil (Optional for greasing steaming trays) - optional
- 2 tbsp Grated coconut (For serving (Pol Sambol)) - optional
- 1 String Hopper mould (Idiyappam press)
- 2-4 Steaming trays (Idiyappam mats)
- To serve Coconut sambol (Traditional Sri Lankan condiment) - optional
- To serve Mild curry (Vegetable or lentil curry) - optional
Instructions
- 1
In a large mixing bowl, combine roasted rice flour and salt. Gradually add warm water, mixing continuously to form a soft, non-sticky dough.
5 minutes
Add water slowly to avoid making the dough too sticky.
- 2
Knead the dough until smooth and free of lumps. The dough should be pliable but not wet.
3 minutes
If dough cracks, add a teaspoon of water and knead again.
- 3
Fill the String Hopper mould with the dough and squeeze onto greased steaming trays or mats in spiral patterns to form small discs.
5 minutes
Work quickly to prevent the dough from drying out.
- 4
Place the trays in a steamer and steam for 8-10 minutes until the String Hoppers are cooked through and springy to the touch.
10 minutes
Avoid overcrowding the steamer to ensure even cooking.
Why This Dish is Healthy
String Hoppers are an excellent choice for calorie-conscious eaters, as they are steamed and not fried, keeping fat content minimal. The use of whole rice flour ensures complex carbohydrates for sustained energy. When paired with coconut or vegetable sides, String Hoppers provide additional nutrients and antioxidants, making them a balanced, wholesome meal suitable for vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets. Their lightness supports healthy digestion and portion control.
String Hoppers are naturally gluten-free, making them suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. With just 115 calories per serving, they provide 2.6g of protein, 24g of carbohydrates, and only 0.6g of fat. The rice flour base is easy to digest, and pairing with coconut sambol or vegetable curries adds dietary fiber, vitamins (especially B vitamins), and minerals such as magnesium and potassium. This dish is low in saturated fat and cholesterol, supporting heart health and weight management.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use roasted rice flour for authentic taste and texture.
- 💡Tip 2: Keep dough covered with a damp cloth to prevent drying.
- 💡Tip 3: Do not over-steam, as String Hoppers can become tough.
Storage & Serving
Store cooled String Hoppers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 12 hours or refrigerate for up to 2 days. Re-steam briefly to restore softness before serving.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 115.0 kcal |
| Protein | 2.6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 24.0 g |
| Total Fat | 0.6 g |
| Fiber | 1.2 g |