Traditional Sri Lankan dish, pancake-like creations made from rice flour and coconut milk batter.

Sri Lankan hoppers are a popular and delicious culinary specialty that can be found in Sri Lanka, particularly for breakfast or as a snack. Hoppers are a type of pancake or crepe made from a fermented rice flour and coconut milk batter, which is poured into a special hopper pan and cooked until they become crispy around the edges and soft and slightly spongy in the center. They have a unique bowl-like shape and are typically served with a variety of accompaniments.

Here are some common types and variations of Sri Lankan hoppers:

1. Plain Hoppers: 

These are the basic hoppers made from the rice flour and coconut milk batter. They have a mild, slightly sweet flavor and are often enjoyed with coconut sambal (a spicy coconut condiment) or dhal (lentil curry).

2. Egg Hoppers: 

In these hoppers, a whole egg is cracked into the center of the hopper just before it finishes cooking. The egg cooks with the hopper, creating a delicious combination of crispy edges and a runny yolk in the center.

3. String Hoppers: 

String hoppers are made from a different type of dough, which is extruded into thin strands and steamed to create a nest-like shape. They are usually served with a variety of curries and sambals.

4. Milk Hoppers: 

Milk hoppers are a sweet variation made with rice flour, coconut milk, and sugar. They are often served with a sweet coconut sauce.

5. Savory Hoppers: 

These hoppers are made with added ingredients like chopped onions, green chilies, and spices, giving them a savory and slightly spicy flavor.

6. Sweety Hoppers: 

Sweety hoppers are similar to plain hoppers but with a sweeter taste. They are often served with honey or treacle.

Hoppers are a versatile food and can be found throughout Sri Lanka, from street food stalls to restaurants. They are often served as part of a larger breakfast spread or as a snack during the day. Eating hoppers with a variety of accompaniments is a popular way to enjoy this Sri Lankan delicacy, and the combination of flavors and textures is a real treat for the taste buds. If you have the chance to visit Sri Lanka, trying hoppers is a must for any food enthusiast.