Sri Lanka, located in the Indian Ocean, is a small country with a rich and diverse culinary tradition. The island nation, formerly known as Ceylon, has a long history of trade and cultural exchange with other countries, including India, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Middle East. This has resulted in a unique fusion of flavors and ingredients that make Sri Lankan cuisine distinct and flavorful. In this article, we will take a journey through some of the most famous and delicious dishes that Sri Lanka has to offer.
Rice and curry
Rice and curry is the staple dish of Sri Lanka. It consists of boiled or steamed rice served with a variety of curries, including meat, fish, or vegetable curries. The curries are made with coconut milk, spices, and various ingredients such as onions, garlic, ginger, and curry leaves. Some of the popular curries include chicken curry, fish curry, dhal curry, and brinjal (eggplant) curry.
Kottu roti
Kottu roti is a popular street food in Sri Lanka. It is made by stir-frying shredded roti bread with vegetables, meat, and spices. The dish is often served with a spicy sauce and a fried egg on top. Kottu roti is a filling and satisfying dish that is loved by locals and tourists alike.
Hoppers
Hoppers, also known as appa, are a type of pancake made with rice flour and coconut milk. The batter is poured into a small, bowl-shaped pan and cooked over a fire or stove. Hoppers can be served with a variety of accompaniments, such as egg, dhal, or meat curry. Egg hoppers, in particular, are a popular breakfast food in Sri Lanka.
String hoppers
String hoppers are a type of steamed noodle made from rice flour. The dough is squeezed through a special tool that creates thin, spaghetti-like strands. The noodles are then steamed and served with a variety of curries and sambols (spicy relishes). String hoppers are a versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.
Lamprais
Lamprais is a unique and flavorful dish that originated from the Dutch Burgher community in Sri Lanka. It consists of rice cooked with meat, vegetables, and spices, all wrapped in a banana leaf and baked in the oven. The dish is usually served with a side of sambol and a boiled egg. Lamprais is a special dish that is often served at weddings and other celebrations.
Sri Lankan cuisine is a delicious and diverse blend of flavors and ingredients that has evolved over centuries of cultural exchange and trade. From rice and curry to hoppers and kottu roti, there are a variety of dishes that are loved by locals and tourists alike. Whether you are a foodie or just looking to try something new, Sri Lankan cuisine is sure to delight your taste buds.
Photo by Nilantha Sanjeewa on Unsplash
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