Authentic Sri Lankan Pittu: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ingredients

  • 2 cups of rice flour
  • 1 cup of freshly grated coconut
  • 1 cup of water
  • 1 tsp of salt
  • 1 Pittu Bamboo Steamer

Steps and instructions

  1. Place the rice flour in a large bowl.
  2. Add salt to the rice flour and mix well.
  3. Gradually add water while kneading the mixture until it reaches a crumbly texture.
  4. Mix in 1/2 cup of the freshly grated coconut.
  5. Fill the Pittu Bamboo Steamer with a layer of the remaining grated coconut, then add the crumbly rice and coconut mixture, and end with another layer of coconut on top.
  6. Place the Pittu Bamboo Steamer on top of a pot of boiling water and steam for about 10-15 minutes or until the top of the pittu is firm to the touch.
  7. Once done, remove from the steamer carefully and serve hot.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Using red rice flour instead of regular rice flour for a nuttier flavor.
  • Adding grated carrots or finely chopped vegetables to the rice and coconut mixture for added texture and flavor.
  • Replacing the grated coconut with coconut milk for a richer taste.
  • Adding spices such as cumin or fennel seeds to the rice flour for a more aromatic pittu.
  • Making a sweet version of pittu by adding sugar, cardamom, and raisins to the rice flour mixture.
  • Adding cooked and shredded chicken or beef to make it a meaty pittu.
  • Using gluten-free flour instead of rice flour for those with gluten intolerances or dietary restrictions.
  • Experimenting with different types of grated cheese for a cheesy twist on pittu.

Recipe overview

Pittu is a popular traditional dish from Sri Lanka that is often enjoyed for breakfast or dinner. This delicacy is made from a mixture of rice flour and grated coconut, which is then steamed to perfection in a special cylindrical utensil called a Pittu Bamboo Steamer. The result is a unique, crumbly yet moist dish that can be enjoyed with a variety of accompaniments such as curries, sambols, or even ripe bananas. This recipe is simple to prepare and offers a delightful change from the everyday meal. With its delicate balance of flavors and textures, Pittu is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy the process of making and savouring this classic Sri Lankan dish.

Common questions

  1. Can I use any type of rice flour?
    Yes, you can use any type of rice flour for this recipe.
  2. Can I substitute freshly grated coconut with desiccated coconut?
    Yes, you can substitute freshly grated coconut with desiccated coconut. However, freshly grated coconut adds a more authentic flavor.
  3. How long should I steam the pittu?
    Steam the pittu for about 10-15 minutes or until the top of the pittu is firm to the touch.
  4. Can I use a different steamer instead of a Pittu Bamboo Steamer?
    It is recommended to use a Pittu Bamboo Steamer for best results. However, you can use a regular steamer if you don't have a Pittu Bamboo Steamer.
  5. Can I make the pittu in advance?
    It is best to serve pittu immediately after steaming for optimal taste and texture. However, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Pittu Bamboo Steamer - A traditional steamer used to cook pittu, made from bamboo and designed specifically for this dish.
  • Large Bowl - Necessary for mixing and kneading the rice flour and other ingredients.
  • Grater - Used for grating the coconut to obtain freshly grated coconut.
  • Pot - Required for boiling water to steam the pittu.
  • Serving Plate - Used to present and serve the cooked pittu.

Origin stories

Pittu is a staple dish in Sri Lankan cuisine, beloved for its simplicity and versatility. It has its roots in the country's rich agricultural history, where farmers cultivated their own rice and relied on readily available ingredients for their meals. What makes Pittu distinct is the bamboo steamer traditionally used to cook it, known as a 'Pittu Kudam'. This unique vessel was designed to allow the steam to cook the rice and coconut mixture evenly, creating a fluffy, delicious dish. The process of making Pittu is a methodical and soothing ritual, a testament to the slow-paced, mindful lifestyle of the Sri Lankan countryside. Nowadays, Pittu has secured its place in not only every Sri Lankan household, but also in the hearts of food connoisseurs around the world.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.