Food in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka, the pearl of the Indian Ocean, beckons travelers with its diverse landscapes and vibrant culture, but it's the island's cuisine that truly captures the heart. Sri Lankan food is a feast for the senses, characterized by its aromatic spices, rich flavors, and unique combinations. The country's culinary tradition reflects a melting pot of influences, from its South Indian neighbor to the historical touches of Dutch and Portuguese colonialism. As you plan your journey to this tropical paradise, prepare to indulge in an array of dishes that are as varied as the island's geography. From street food staples like kottu roti to the complex flavors of a traditional rice and curry, this article will guide you through the must-try culinary experiences in Sri Lanka, ensuring your taste buds are as well-traveled as you are.

Sri Lankan Dishes

Rice and Curry

The cornerstone of Sri Lankan cuisine, rice and curry is a daily staple for most locals. A typical meal includes a large serving of rice accompanied by several curries that can include vegetables, meat, or fish, all infused with aromatic spices like turmeric, cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg. Coconut milk is often used to create a rich, creamy texture.

Hoppers (Appa)

Hoppers are a unique Sri Lankan breakfast or dinner food. These bowl-shaped pancakes are made from a fermented batter of rice flour, coconut milk, and a hint of sugar. The center is often cooked with an egg, creating the popular 'egg hopper.' They are typically served with spicy sambol or curry.

Kottu Roti

Kottu Roti is a beloved street food dish made of godhamba roti (a type of flatbread), vegetables, egg, meat, and spices. The ingredients are chopped and mixed on a flat grill, producing a distinctive clanging sound as metal spatulas chop the roti. It's a flavorful and hearty meal that's ideal for experiencing local flavors.

String Hoppers (Idiyappam)

String hoppers are another popular dish made from rice flour dough that is pressed into noodle form and then steamed. These delicate noodles are often served for breakfast or dinner with curry and coconut sambol.

Pol Sambol (Coconut Sambol)

This simple yet flavorful dish is a combination of grated coconut, red onions, dried whole chilies, lime juice, and salt. Pol Sambol is a versatile side dish that accompanies many Sri Lankan meals, adding a spicy kick.

Parippu (Dhal Curry)

Parippu, or dhal curry, is a comforting and nutritious dish made from red lentils cooked in a blend of spices and coconut milk. It's a common side dish for rice and is flavored with curry leaves, mustard seeds, and sometimes tomatoes.

Fish Ambul Thiyal (Sour Fish Curry)

This Southern Sri Lankan specialty is made with a firm fish, typically tuna, cut into cubes and sautéed in a mixture of spices including black pepper, cinnamon, turmeric, garlic, and curry leaves. The sour flavor comes from the use of 'goraka,' a dried fruit that is native to the region.

Lamprais

Lamprais is a Dutch-Burgher influenced dish that consists of rice boiled in stock with a special curry, accompanied by frikkadels (meatballs), all of which is wrapped in a banana leaf and baked in an oven. It's a rich and fragrant dish that combines several elements of Sri Lankan cuisine.

Wambatu Moju (Eggplant Pickle)

Wambatu Moju is a sweet and spicy pickled eggplant dish. The eggplant is deep-fried and then caramelized with a coat of sugar, vinegar, red onions, green chilies, mustard seeds, and chili powder. It's often served as part of a traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry meal.

Pol Roti (Coconut Roti)

Pol Roti is a simple, rustic flatbread made with grated coconut, flour, water, and salt. It's typically served with a spicy sambol or curry and is a comforting, filling option for breakfast or a snack.

Curry Puffs

These flaky pastry pockets are filled with spiced potatoes, chicken, or vegetables. Curry puffs are a common snack found in bakeries and street food stalls, perfect for eating on the go.

Sri Lankan Desserts

Watalappan

A rich pudding made from coconut milk, jaggery (palm sugar), cashew nuts, eggs, and various spices including cardamom, cloves, and nutmeg. Watalappan is of Malay origin and has a delicate, custard-like texture.

Kiri Toffee

Similar to fudge, Kiri Toffee is a sweet, condensed milk-based treat. It's flavored with cashew nuts and cardamom, resulting in a chewy and milky confection that's quite addictive.

Kokis

Kokis is a traditional Sri Lankan snack, especially popular during the Sinhala and Tamil New Year. These crispy, deep-fried delights are made from a batter of rice flour and coconut milk, sometimes sweetened with sugar and often shaped into intricate designs using a mould.

Bibikkan

This rich, coconut cake is loaded with treacle, semolina, and a variety of spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg. Often studded with cashew nuts and candied pumpkin, Bibikkan is a moist and flavorful dessert that showcases the tropical ingredients of Sri Lanka.

Aluwa

Aluwa is a traditional sweet made from rice flour, treacle, and a host of spices, including cardamom. The mixture is formed into diamonds or squares and is a staple treat during festive occasions.