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Vegetable Roll
Street Food • Sri Lanka
ගැන Vegetable Roll
Crepe-wrapped spiced potato and vegetable filling — bakery short-eat.
How to Make Vegetable Roll (Traditional & Healthy Version)
The Sri Lankan Vegetable Roll is a beloved street food snack found in bustling markets, roadside stalls, and homes across the island. Renowned for its crispy golden exterior and savory vegetable filling, this classic dish showcases the vibrant flavors and spices characteristic of Sri Lankan cuisine. Traditionally, the Vegetable Roll is made by wrapping a spiced vegetable mixture in a thin crepe, coating it lightly in breadcrumbs, and shallow-frying until perfectly crisp. This version uses less oil and wholesome ingredients, making it a healthier alternative while preserving the authentic taste. Vegetable Rolls are popular among all age groups in Sri Lanka, often enjoyed as a tea-time treat, quick lunch, or light dinner. Their portable nature makes them a staple at gatherings and festive occasions. The combination of local vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and leeks with subtle Sri Lankan spices results in a hearty, satisfying snack that is both vegetarian and packed with nutrition. Making Vegetable Rolls at home allows you to control the ingredients and portion sizes, turning this street food favorite into a balanced, family-friendly meal. The dish is perfect for international food lovers seeking an authentic taste of Sri Lanka, offering a delightful balance of crispiness, warmth, and spicy-sweet flavor in every bite.
Ingredients(for 2 rolls per serving)
- 1 medium (about 120g) Potato (boiled and mashed)
- 1/2 cup Carrot (grated)
- 1/4 cup Leeks (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 cup Green beans (finely chopped)
- 1 small Onion (finely chopped)
- 1 Green chili (finely chopped (reduce for less heat))
- 5 leaves Curry leaves (chopped)
- 1/4 tsp Turmeric powder
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper (freshly ground)
- 1/2 tsp Salt (to taste)
- 1/2 cup Whole wheat flour (for crepe batter)
- 1/2 cup Low-fat milk or water (for crepe batter)
- 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
- 1 Egg (for coating (use plant-based for vegan)) - optional
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil (for shallow frying)
Instructions
- 1
Prepare the filling by heating 1 tablespoon oil in a pan. Sauté onions, green chili, and curry leaves until fragrant. Add leeks, carrots, and green beans, and cook for 3-4 minutes. Stir in boiled potatoes, turmeric, black pepper, and salt. Mix well and cook for another 2 minutes.
7 minutes
Mash vegetables lightly for a cohesive filling.
- 2
Combine whole wheat flour and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Gradually add milk or water, whisking to make a smooth, thin crepe batter.
3 minutes
Batter should be lump-free for delicate crepes.
- 3
Heat a non-stick pan with a few drops of oil. Pour a small ladle of batter and swirl to form a thin crepe. Cook for 1 minute on each side until light golden. Repeat with remaining batter.
6 minutes
Keep crepes covered to prevent drying out.
- 4
Place a spoonful of vegetable filling on each crepe. Fold the sides and roll tightly to form a cylinder.
3 minutes
Do not overfill to keep rolls intact.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This Vegetable Roll recipe is a healthy choice because it uses fresh, wholesome vegetables, whole grains, and minimal oil. Shallow frying instead of deep frying significantly reduces calorie and fat content, making it suitable for weight management and heart health. The inclusion of fiber-rich ingredients helps maintain satiety, while the use of natural spices delivers flavor without excess sodium or additives—perfect for a balanced, nutritious snack or meal.
Each serving of Sri Lankan Vegetable Roll provides a balanced source of complex carbohydrates, dietary fiber, and plant-based protein. Potatoes, carrots, and green beans are rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants, supporting immune health and digestion. Using whole wheat flour and breadcrumbs boosts fiber content, while shallow frying keeps fat levels moderate. This vegetarian recipe is free from artificial additives and uses healthy cooking techniques suitable for calorie-conscious diets.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Make the filling ahead and refrigerate for easy assembly.
- 💡Tip 2: Ensure crepes are thin and pliable for easy rolling.
- 💡Tip 3: For extra crispiness, double-coat rolls with breadcrumbs.
Storage & Serving
Store cooled rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer for best crispiness before serving. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 205.0 kcal |
| Protein | 4.2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 22.0 g |
| Total Fat | 11.4 g |
| Fiber | 1.8 g |