Joanna James
Influenced by a diverse cultural heritage and 3000 years of rich history, Sri Lanka's culinary landscape is woven with flavours unlike any other. From spicy curries to sweet, coconut-based treats, the island offers an adventure for every palate. Here are ten must-try dishes for a taste of Sri Lanka's fascinating culture.
Kiribath, a rice dish cooked in coconut milk, is a staple in Sri Lankan cuisine. Traditionally served with lunu miris, a spicy chilli paste tempered with onions, garlic, and lime, this dish is a flavourful and satisfying start to any day, or to commemorate special occasions.
A Dutch colonial influence, lamprais is a unique dish consisting of rice, meat or fish, vegetables, and sambols wrapped in a banana leaf and baked. This flavourful and aromatic meal is a popular choice for shareable meals and hearty lunches, recently having taken the world by storm thanks to its feature on Masterchef Australia Season 16. Purchase a packet virtually anywhere around the island, from Kalutara restaurants to small streetside eateries in Colombo.
For meat lovers, black pork curry is a must-try. Venture into the world of Lankan coconut-based curries, with this rich and flavourful dish. Featuring tender peppered pork cooked in a spicy coconut milk-based curry. It is also often accompanied by bread or string hoppers, or served with a bed of steaming rice at Anantara Kalutara Resort.
A staple in Sri Lankan households, dhal curry is a lentil-based gravy packed with the accompanying flavours of turmeric, chilli and coconut milk. It is often served with rice or roti and is a vegetarian option for those seeking a delicious and satisfying meal. For a quintessential Lankan experience, order a packet of steaming string hoppers or a slice of roast paan, paired with a side of dhal and sambal that curates a delectable marriage of flavours.
A tangy and spicy fish curry, ambul thiyal is a signature dish from the coastal regions of Sri Lanka, as well as the central plateaus outlined by rivers and lakes. The combination of tamarind, chilli, and aromatic spices creates a unique and unforgettable flavour profile.
Hailing from the Jaffna region, this spicy crab curry is a seafood lover's delight. The rich and flavourful curry is packed with signature Lankan fresh crab meat, infused with a blend of aromatic spices.
A refreshing and healthy option, a malung salad typically features a mix of leafy vegetables tossed with grated coconut, green chillies, onions, and lime juice. The perfect accompaniment to any meal, this salad offers a burst of tangy flavour and essential nutrients.
Indulge in a sweet treat with buffalo milk curd, a classic Sri Lankan delicious dessert. Serve it with kithul treacle, a natural sweetener made from palm sap, for a heavenly combination.
A popular street food and breakfast item, pani pol pancakes are soft rolls stuffed with a sugary coconut filling, infused with cardamon and sweetened kithul jaggery.
End your meal on a sweet note with wattalapam, a rich and creamy pudding with a distinct spiced flavour. This dessert is a popular choice during festive occasions and is enjoyed by people of all ages, originating from the rich heritage of the Malay community on the island.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
