Sri Lankan cuisine is a vibrant fusion of spices, flavors, and textures, deeply influenced by its Indian, Malaysian, Dutch, and Portuguese roots. Here’s a guide to must-try Sri Lankan dishes that capture the island’s culinary essence.
1. Rice and Curry
A staple dish, rice and curry in Sri Lanka is a flavorful plate of steamed rice served with multiple side dishes that may include dhal (lentil curry), fish or chicken curry, spiced vegetables, and coconut sambal. This dish’s diversity and balanced spices make it a must-try.
2. Kottu Roti
This popular street food, kottu roti, is a savory dish made by stir-frying chopped roti (flatbread) with vegetables, eggs, and often chicken or beef. It’s cooked on a flat griddle, creating a rhythmic chopping sound that’s almost as iconic as the dish itself.
3. Hoppers (Appa)
Hoppers are bowl-shaped pancakes with a crisp edge and a soft center, often made with fermented rice flour and coconut milk. The egg hopper variant includes a soft-cooked egg in the middle. They’re typically served with spicy sambals or curries and make a great breakfast or snack.
4. Pol Sambol
Pol sambol is a fresh coconut relish that combines grated coconut, chili, lime, and onions, creating a spicy, tangy side dish. This versatile condiment is often paired with rice, hoppers, or even bread.
5. Lamprais
Lamprais is a Dutch-influenced rice dish that features spiced rice with meat (often a mix of chicken, pork, and beef), sambal, and fried ash plantains, all wrapped in a banana leaf and steamed. The fragrant blend of spices and the cooking method give it a unique aroma and taste.
6. String Hoppers (Idiyappam)
Made from rice flour, string hoppers are delicate, lacy noodles that are typically served with coconut milk curry or dhal. This light, versatile dish is popular for breakfast or dinner and pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments.
7. Fish Ambul Thiyal
One of Sri Lanka’s famous curries, fish ambul thiyal is a sour fish curry made with tamarind, creating a distinctive flavor. Usually made with tuna, it’s a dry curry, with the spices coating each piece of fish.
8. Gotu Kola Sambol
Gotu kola sambol is a refreshing green salad made from finely shredded gotu kola leaves (a herbaceous plant) mixed with grated coconut, onions, and lime. This healthy, nutrient-rich dish is often served as a side.
9. Parippu (Dhal Curry)
Parippu is a comforting, mild lentil curry prepared with red lentils, coconut milk, and a mix of spices like turmeric and mustard seeds. It’s a common side dish, adding a creamy texture to any meal.
10. Watalappan
Watalappan is a traditional Sri Lankan dessert, similar to caramel pudding, made from coconut milk, jaggery (palm sugar), eggs, and spices such as cardamom. This sweet, custard-like dish is often enjoyed at festivals and special occasions.
Conclusion
Exploring traditional Sri Lankan cuisine offers a flavorful journey through the island’s diverse influences and unique culinary techniques. From spicy curries to refreshing sambols and sweet desserts, each dish provides a taste of Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. For food lovers, experiencing these dishes firsthand is a memorable way to connect with Sri Lankan culture.
