How to Make Coconut Roti (Sri Lankan Pol Roti)

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 Sri Lankan cuisine is full of comfort foods, and pol roti—our iconic coconut roti—is at the top of that list. Soft on the inside, slightly crispy on the outside, and full of coconut aroma, pol roti is a dish enjoyed at breakfast, dinner, or even as a quick snack. It’s simple, wholesome, and uses just a few everyday ingredients. When we burn the roti in the pan it gives a moth watering smell. It tastes so good when it is served hot.

Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or someone looking to reconnect with traditional Sri Lankan flavours, this guide will walk you through the easiest way to make perfect pol roti at home.

What is Pol Roti?

Pol roti is a flatbread made with wheat flour and fresh grated coconut. It’s often mixed with chopped onions, green chilies, and curry leaves for extra flavour. Traditionally cooked on a roti thatiya a flat steal pan, it can just as easily be made on any non-stick pan.

Best enjoyed hot with:

  • Lunu miris

  • Pork or any meat curry

  • Katta sambol

  • Dhal curry

  • Even butter and jam!



Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s the basic ingredient list (serves 3–4 people):

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour (you can combine any other flour like kurakkan or atta with the all purpose flour)

  • 1 cup freshly grated coconut

  • 1/2 cup coconut water  or water (add gradually)

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 1/2 tsp of baking powder or yeast (optional).

  • Optional add-ins (recommended for flavour):

    • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

    • 1–2 green chilies, chopped

    • A few curry leaves, sliced

    • 1 tbsp coconut oil

    • A handful of chopped coriander

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, grated coconut, and salt.
Gradually add water while mixing with your hand until the dough comes together.
It should be soft, non-sticky, and easy to shape. Keep it aside for about an hour for the dough to rise.

To scrape the coconut you can use the normal coconut scraper or an electric scraper.





 I use coconut water to mix the dough because it makes the dough lighter and adds a subtle sweetness. The sugar in the coconut water helps the dough rise.



2. Divide and Shape

Divide the dough into small balls (roughly the size of a lime).
Flatten each ball using your palms into a round, even disc about ½ cm thick.



My kids prefer roti with cheese and onion  inside. So I make a habit of making cheese and onion roti for them. When the cheese is melted inside it gives a nice taste.

Add cheese and onion into a half of a circle and cover it with by folding the other half. just like you do with an omelet.





You can also make roti by adding the chopped onions, coriander leaves and green chili. 

This gives a perfect aroma.

3. Heat the Pan

Place a pan on medium heat.
Brush lightly with oil if you prefer, but traditional pol roti is cooked without oil.

4. Cook the Roti

Place each shaped roti onto the hot pan.
Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown spots appear.
Flip a couple of times to ensure even cooking.

5. Serve Hot

Serve immediately with your favourite sambol or curry.
Pol roti tastes best when eaten warm and fresh off the stove.


pol roti with pork curry. One of my favourite combinations.


Tips for the Perfect Pol Roti

  • Use fresh coconut. It makes a huge difference in flavour and texture.

  • Don’t add too much water. The dough should be soft but firm enough to shape.

  • Add grated carrots or leeks for a colourful, nutritious twist. You can also add an egg.

  • Use coconut oil for richer flavour.

  • Make it gluten-free by using kurakkan flour or rice flour (adjust water as needed).

Variations You Can Try

1. Kurakkan Roti

Replace half the wheat flour with finger millet flour. A healthier and more earthy version.

2. Cheese Pol Roti

Add grated cheese to the dough or stuff cheese inside before cooking.

3. Pol Roti Wraps

Make the rotis slightly thinner and use them as wraps with chicken, fish, or veggie fillings.

Final Thoughts

Pol roti is one of the simplest yet most comforting meals you can make at home. It’s quick, budget-friendly, and filled with flavour. With just a handful of ingredients, you can enjoy a timeless Sri Lankan classic that pairs beautifully with almost any side.









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