What Are Sri Lankan Hoppers?

If you’ve ever dined at a Sri Lankan restaurant or delved into South Asian cuisine, you might have come across a dish called “hoppers.” But what exactly are Sri Lankan hoppers, and why are they such a cherished staple in Sri Lankan cuisine? 

 

 

A Culinary Tradition: What Are Hoppers?

Sri Lankan hoppers, or “appa” as they are locally known, are distinctive bowl-shaped pancakes crafted from fermented rice flour. The batter, a harmonious blend of rice flour, coconut milk, and a hint of sugar, is allowed to ferment, imparting a subtle tanginess to the final product. This batter is poured into a small, round pan and cooked over high heat, resulting in a unique texture: a lacy, crisp edge encircling a soft, spongy centre. This combination of textures and flavours makes hoppers a beloved staple in Sri Lankan cuisine.

 

 

The Perfect Texture

What sets hoppers apart is their distinctive texture. The outer rim crisps up to a delicate, golden crunch, while the centre stays soft and tender. This striking contrast in texture creates a delightful base that complements a wide array of savoury and sweet toppings. Traditionally, hoppers are enjoyed with an assortment of accompaniments, from fiery sambols and rich curries to a simple egg cracked into the centre, enhancing their versatility and flavour.

 

A Versatile Dish

One of the beauties of Sri Lankan hoppers is their versatility. They can be enjoyed at any meal of the day, from a hearty breakfast to a light dinner. The ability to customise hoppers with various toppings and accompaniments makes them a favourite among both locals and visitors.

 

 

How to Enjoy Hoppers

Traditionally, hoppers are enjoyed with a selection of sides, such as spicy sambols, rich curries, or tangy chutneys. For a complete meal, you might pair them with coconut sambol, dhal curry, or a fresh salad. The flexibility of hoppers allows for a range of flavour combinations, catering to both sweet and savoury cravings.

 

Types of Hoppers

There are several popular variations of Sri Lankan hoppers:

• Plain Hoppers: These are the classic version, ideal for pairing with a range of savoury or sweet sides. Their simplicity highlights the skill in achieving the perfect texture.

 

• Egg Hoppers: A delightful twist on the classic, egg hoppers are made by cracking an egg into the centre of the hopper while it cooks. The result is a rich, creamy egg yolk nestled in the middle of the crispy pancake.

 

 

• Curry Hoppers: take the dish in a savoury direction, where the hopper is served alongside a variety of robust curries. The crisp edges and tender centre of the hopper soak up the curry’s flavours, providing a delicious contrast in texture and taste.

 

 

• Sweet Hoppers: For a sweet variation, milk hoppers include a layer of coconut milk mixed with a touch of sugar, giving them a subtle sweetness that pairs wonderfully with jaggery syrup.

 

 

Making Hoppers at Home

While hoppers are a popular dish in Sri Lankan cuisine, making them at home can be a rewarding experience. The key is to master the batter’s fermentation process and get the right pan for cooking. With a bit of practice, you can create these delightful pancakes and enjoy a taste of Sri Lanka right in your own kitchen.

 

 

Sri Lankan hoppers are a delicious and versatile dish with a rich history and unique texture. Their crispy, lacy edges and soft, spongy centre provide a delightful contrast that pairs wonderfully with a variety of savoury or sweet toppings. Whether you’re enjoying them at Ceylon and Beyond or experimenting with making them at home, hoppers offer an authentic taste of Sri Lankan culinary traditions. So, the next time you have the opportunity, give these delightful pancakes a try—you might just find a new favourite in this fascinating and flavourful dish!