Savoury Helapa

Ingredients(for 1 medium Helapa per person)

• 1 cup Rice flour (Sri Lankan red rice flour preferred)
• 1/2 cup Grated coconut (freshly grated)
• 1 small Onion (finely chopped)
• 2 Green chilies (seeded and finely chopped)
• 1/2 tsp Salt (to taste)
• 1/4 tsp Black pepper (freshly ground)
• 1 sprig Curry leaves (finely chopped)
• 4 Kenda leaves (washed and wiped dry)
• as needed Water (for kneading dough)
• 1 tsp Oil (coconut oil for brushing) - optional

Instructions

1. 1

   Mix rice flour with a pinch of salt, gradually adding water to form a soft, pliable dough.

   5 minutes

   Don’t overwork the dough; keep it moist but not sticky.

2. 2

   Combine grated coconut, onions, green chilies, black pepper, and chopped curry leaves in a bowl. Add salt to taste and mix well.

   5 minutes

   Adjust chili and pepper for desired spice level.

3. 3

   Divide the dough into equal portions. Flatten each into a round, thin disc (about 5 inches).

   3 minutes

   Use parchment paper or lightly oiled hands to prevent sticking.

4. 4

   Place a spoonful of the coconut-onion mixture in the center of each disc. Fold the dough over to enclose the filling and shape into a patty.

   3 minutes

   Seal the edges well to avoid the filling leaking during steaming.