Spice, Flavour & Tradition: 7 Sri Lankan Dishes to Savour in Galle

A Sri Lankan breakfast speciality is hoppers, whether they are chosen to be eaten plain, with an egg or, in some cases, cheese! These delicious and crispy treats are made from gluten-free flour fermented for a day, which is quick to make and delightful. Along with the hoppers, some tasty side dishes of sambol and curries are served, which bring out the most tantalising flavours and pull on those taste buds. A beverage to match the vibe? What would be perfect is a side of ginger tea with a piece of jaggery, which soothes the gullet and showcases that tradition and culture Sri Lanka stands for.

Lamprais is a fan favourite amongst many on the island. This dish is a Dutch version of rice and curry and reflects the infusion of cultures in Sri Lanka. This rice is packed with authentic flavours and is a version of a biriyani with chicken, vegetables, brinjal moju, and a few tea party favours. Wrapped in a banana leaf and served after steaming, this rice is a must-try, and the best versions can be found easily in many spots within the city of Galle.

Sri Lanka is known for its rice and curry. The name sounds simple, but it is nothing short of exceptional! The rice features iconic and cultural traditional dishes that speak flavours like no other, starting with a traditional chicken curry infused with local spices and flavours. Other accompaniments include dhal curry, because what Sri Lankan dish is ever complete without dhal curry, along with a range of sambols or brinjal moju? These rich curries are infused with a rare flavour that combines Eastern and Western cultures that Sri Lanka embodies through and through. All these dishes make dining in Galle a very exceptional experience, especially for tourists looking to get lost in its magnificent, local and traditional dishes. Rice and curry, and other favourites, are available at stays like Heenatigala Walawwa, making things very convenient for guests.

Sri Lanka is well known among many for its Kottu roti, which is a dish made of roti that is cut up and tossed with various curries, eggs, meat and cheese items. Originating from the Eastern Batticaloa region of the island, this dish is a street food enjoyed by anyone and everyone, irrespective of age. The roti is finely chopped up into small pieces on a hot griddle using metal slices to better infuse the curries and flavours added to it. If visiting Sri Lanka in general, this dish is a must-try!

Sri Lanka's southern coast, including Galle, is known for its variations of specially curated seafood that bring out the rich culture and tradition of the island. Classics include hot butter cuttlefish that's battered, covered in onions and a range of sauces and flavours, or a fan favourite, crab curry, which is unlike any crab dish that could be had anywhere in the world. Sri Lankan crab curry is a truly authentic experience and bursts with aroma and flavours, along with sides of a variety of curries and sambols to add to while feasting.

Kiribath, or recognised as milk rice, is a delicacy in Sri Lanka that is steamed in rich coconut milk, usually served with onion sambol or lunu miris. This dish is a staple diet amongst many local homes and is usually served during auspicious moments as well. A slice of pol roti, or roti made from coconut, is perfect to pair with the sambol and is best to serve for breakfast or even dinner, as it is a stomach filler!

Sri Lanka's roster of iconic desserts includes classics like curd, served with kithul. The curd is made from buffalo milk, and the treacle from a locally grown tree that is similar in taste to maple syrup. It's a sweet treat to be enjoyed after a good meal. Not to forget the iconic wattalappam, which is similar to caramel pudding but made with locally made jaggery, a natural sweetener, and often served with a spoonful of honey. It is a journey of emotions, taking all these flavours in through this dish.