Top 10 Must-Try Sri Lankan Dishes for Food Enthusiasts

When it comes to flavorful and diverse cuisines, Sri Lanka is a food lover’s paradise. With its rich history and cultural influences, Sri Lankan cuisine offers a unique blend of flavors and spices that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. From spicy curries to sweet desserts, here are the top 10 must-try Sri Lankan dishes for food enthusiasts.

1. Rice and Curry

Rice and curry is the staple dish of Sri Lanka. It consists of a plate of steamed rice accompanied by an array of curries, which can include meat, fish, or vegetables. The curries are typically made with coconut milk and a blend of spices, giving them a rich and aromatic flavor.

2. Hoppers

Hoppers are a popular Sri Lankan breakfast dish. They are thin, bowl-shaped pancakes made with fermented rice flour and coconut milk. Hoppers can be enjoyed plain or with a variety of toppings, such as egg, cheese, or sweet jaggery.

3. Kottu Roti

Kottu roti is a beloved street food in Sri Lanka. It is made by stir-frying shredded roti bread with vegetables, eggs, and a choice of meat or seafood. The dish is often accompanied by a spicy curry sauce, adding an extra kick of flavor.

4. String Hoppers

String hoppers are a type of steamed rice noodle that is served with a variety of curries. The noodles are made by pressing rice flour dough through a sieve to create thin, delicate strands. String hoppers are typically enjoyed for breakfast or dinner.

5. Fish Ambul Thiyal

Fish Ambul Thiyal is a tangy and spicy fish curry that is unique to Sri Lanka. The dish is made by marinating fish in a blend of spices and then simmering it in a tamarind-based gravy. The result is a flavorful and aromatic curry that pairs perfectly with rice.

6. Lamprais

Lamprais is a Dutch-influenced dish that is popular among the Sri Lankan Burgher community. It consists of a parcel of rice, meat (usually beef or chicken), and sambol (a spicy condiment), all wrapped in a banana leaf and baked. Lamprais is a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for lunch or dinner.

7. Watalappan

Watalappan is a traditional Sri Lankan dessert made with coconut milk, jaggery (a type of cane sugar), and spices such as cardamom and nutmeg. It is similar to a caramel custard and has a rich and creamy texture. Watalappan is often enjoyed during special occasions and festivals.

8. Pol Sambol

Pol Sambol is a spicy coconut relish that is commonly served with rice and curry. It is made by mixing grated coconut with red onions, chili powder, lime juice, and salt. Pol Sambol adds a burst of flavor and heat to any meal.

9. Kool

Kool is a hearty and flavorful seafood soup that is popular in Sri Lanka. It is made with a variety of ingredients, such as fish, prawns, crab, and vegetables, which are cooked in a coconut milk-based broth. Kool is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for seafood lovers.

10. Wood Apple Juice

Wood apple juice is a refreshing and unique drink that is native to Sri Lanka. It is made by extracting the pulp from the wood apple fruit and mixing it with water and sugar. Wood apple juice has a tangy and slightly sweet flavor, making it a perfect thirst quencher on a hot day.

These are just a few of the many delicious dishes that Sri Lanka has to offer. Whether you’re a fan of spicy curries or sweet desserts, Sri Lankan cuisine is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.