Helapa (Halapa) හැලප

  

Helapa (Halapa) is a traditional Sri Lankan sweet treat. It's prepared with a combination of kurakkan flour, rice flour, treacle, cardamom, and grated coconut. The ingredients are cooked together and mixed until they develop a doughy consistency. The mixture is then flattened on kanda leaves, which are folded and steamed until the dough firms up. Before serving, the leaves just need to be unwrapped and helapa can be eaten. It is recommended to serve this traditional dessert with a cup of Ceylon tea.

INGREDIENTS

• Ragi flour (kurakkan flour) - 1 cup
• Shredded coconut - 2 tablespoon
• Honey - 1/4 cup
• Kande leaves or foil paper

PREPARATION

• Heat the honey and add the shredded coconut and mix well.
• Remove from heat and add ragi flour and make a dough.
• Add a little water if desired. Now place a little dough in the center of the kande leaf and fold it in half and press the dough evenly.
• If you can't find kande leaves use foil paper instead.
• When everything is done place the leaves or wrapped foil in a steamer and steam it for 10-15 minutes or until well done.