With its cuisine renowned for a rich blend of flavours, spices, and fresh ingredients, Sri Lanka is truly a great destination for food lovers. The country’s food scene is influenced by Indian, Malay, and Dutch cuisines. Also, every dish, from rice and curry to hoppers, is embedded in the Lankan culture and traditions.
Let us explore the most popular food in Sri Lanka.
Why you must try the food in Sri Lanka?
Savouring Sri Lankan food is a delightful experience that you must not miss. From fragrant rice dishes to spicy curries and sweet desserts, you will find something to satisfy every palate. Sri Lankan food is deeply rooted in the nation's history and culture. By trying the local cuisine, you can connect with the traditions and lifestyle of the people here. The flavours are authentic and delicious because of fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
10 most popular foods in Sri Lanka
Here is a list of some of the most popular foods in Sri Lanka:
- Kottu
Kottu is among the most popular street foods in Sri Lanka. It is made by chopping up flat, crispy bread called Godamba roti and stir-frying it with vegetables, eggs, meat, or cheese. Spices and curry sauce are added to give it a rich, flavorful taste.
- Polos
Polos is a popular Sri Lankan dish made from young jackfruit. It is a type of curry prepared by cutting jackfruit into small pieces and cooking it with spices like chilli, turmeric, mustard seeds, and coconut milk.
- Lamprais
Lamprais is a special Sri Lankan dish with Dutch influence. It consists of rice, meat curry, sambol, and fried eggplant wrapped in a banana leaf and baked. Traditionally, it includes spiced meat like chicken, red meat, or lamb, along with flavourful rice cooked in broth.
- Dhal Curry
Dhal curry is one of the most common and loved dishes in Sri Lanka. It is made using red lentils (dhal), which are boiled until soft and then cooked with coconut milk, onions, garlic, mustard seeds, and spices like turmeric and chilli powder.
- Wambatu Moju
This is a famous Sri Lankan dish with different versions in each region. It tastes like a sweet and tangy pickle and is typically eaten with rice. Eggplant slices are deep-fried until golden brown, then mixed with chilli powder, mustard seeds, cloves, salt, sugar, and vinegar to make a rich, flavourful sauce. Fried shallots, garlic, and ginger are then added to complete the dish.
- Egg Hoppers with Sambol
Hoppers are a popular food of Sri Lanka, similar to thin pancakes with crispy edges. They are made using rice flour, coconut milk, coconut water, and a little sugar. The batter is poured into a small pan and swirled to form a bowl shape. Sometimes, an egg is added in the centre while it cooks.
- Fish Ambul Thiyal
This famous Sri Lankan fish curry is known for its sour and spicy flavour. It is made with firm fish like tuna, which is cut into pieces and cooked with black pepper, garlic, turmeric, and chilli powder.
- Kukul Mas Curry
Spices are first fried in oil, then coconut milk and tomato puree are added. Chicken pieces are cooked in this thick gravy until tender and savoured.
- Wood Apple Juice
Wood apple juice is a popular drink in Sri Lanka. It is made from the pulp of the wood apple fruit. The pulp is mixed with water, jaggery, and sometimes a little milk to make the juice. It is refreshing and packed with nutrients, making it a favourite, especially on hot days.
- Watalappan
It is a popular Sri Lankan dessert made with coconut milk, jaggery, eggs, and spices like cardamom and nutmeg. The dessert has a soft, pudding-like texture and a rich, sweet taste. It is often enjoyed during special occasions and festivals, especially by the Sri Lankan Muslim community.
Importance of travel insurance
If you plan to travel to Sri Lanka, remember to have international travel insurancev to ensure a safe and stress-free journey. It will safeguard you against unforeseen events like delayed flights, lost baggage and medical emergencies. Buy single-trip insurance which will cover you for one trip to Sri Lanka.
FAQs
- Is Sri Lankan food spicy?
Yes, a lot of traditional dishes in Sri Lanka are spicy. The preparation of several Sri Lankan dishes involves the use of various spices.
- What is a traditional breakfast in Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka’s staple breakfast is milk, rice and curry.
- What are some of the most popular dishes of Sri Lanka?
Some popular dishes you can try in Sri Lanka include Kottu, Kukul Mas Curry, Fish Ambul Theyal and Lamprais.
Conclusion
Sri Lankan food is full of rich flavours, spices, and dishes that reflect its culture and history. From spicy curries to sweet desserts, every meal is a delicious experience in itself. Whether you try Kottu, Hoppers, or Watalappan, Sri Lankan food has something for everyone. If you love exploring new flavours, Sri Lanka’s traditional dishes will surely delight your taste buds. When travelling to Sri Lanka for its culinary delights, having travel insurance ensures a hassle-free and enjoyable trip.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.