In the bustling streets of Sri Lanka, amidst the rhythmic clang of metal spatulas against hot griddles, lie the origins of a culinary masterpiece: kottu. This iconic dish, which has captured the hearts and palates of food enthusiasts worldwide, has a rich and fascinating history that can be traced back to its humble beginnings on the island nation.

A glimpse into the past

The history of kottu can be traced back to the streets of Sri Lanka, where it emerged as a street food option. Legend has it that kottu was born out of necessity, as thrifty cooks sought to make use of leftover roti (flatbread) by chopping it up and stir-frying it with vegetables, eggs, and spices. This ingenious method of repurposing ingredients gave rise to a dish that was not only delicious but also practical and affordable, making it a favourite among locals.

Among the varieties of kottu available, a few types stand out for their unique flavours and ingredients, such as the chicken kottu, vegetable kottu, egg kottu, cheese kottu, string hopper kottu, seafood kottu, mutton kottu, paan kottu, dolphin kottu, and more. 

Rise to international fame

While kottu had long been a beloved staple of Sri Lankan cuisine, its journey to international fame began in the early 2000s with the emergence of Sri Lankan communities around the world. As immigrants from Sri Lanka settled in countries like the US, Canada, the UK, and Australia, they brought with them their culinary traditions, including the cherished kottu. Soon, Sri Lankan restaurants and food trucks began popping up in cities across the globe, introducing kottu to a whole new audience.

Cultural exchange and fusion

As kottu gained traction on the international stage, it underwent further evolution as chefs and food enthusiasts outside of Sri Lanka put their own unique twist on the dish. In cities with diverse culinary scenes, like London, Toronto, and New York, you’ll find fusion versions of kottu that incorporate elements of other cuisines, such as Caribbean, Indian, and Middle Eastern flavours. These innovative interpretations add a new dimension to the dish while paying homage to its Sri Lankan roots.

Best places for kottu in Sri Lanka

• Pilawoos, Colombo 3: An all-time favourite eatery for locals around Colombo
• Hotel de Plaza, Colombo 3: One of the very few restaurants in Colombo that has an unbelievably wide variety of kottu
• Kottu Labs, Nawala and Kelaniya: Embrace your inner chef at Kottu Labs, where you craft your own mouth watering kottu recipe
• Mr. Kottu Grand: The go-to spot for kottu enthusiasts! They have a few locations – Maharagama, Battaramulla, Rajagiriya, Kaduwela, Welisara, Piliyandala, and Nugegoda
• The Embazzy, Flower Road, Colombo 7: Try its must-have mutton cheese kottu and explore other cheese kottu options like chicken and egg. Don’t miss its refreshing milk shakes and loaded fries. Great ambiance, great food – a definite win!

Despite its newfound popularity and global adaptations, kottu remains deeply rooted in Sri Lankan culture and tradition. Street vendors and small eateries continue to serve steaming plates of kottu to locals and tourists alike, preserving the authenticity and integrity of the dish. For many Sri Lankans, kottu is more than just a meal – it’s a symbol of home, community, and shared heritage.

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