Top 25 Best Foods to Try in Sri Lanka: A Food Blogger's Guide

I've had the opportunity to try a variety of cuisines from around the world, and I must say that Sri Lankan food is definitely one of my favorites. The country is known for its unique blend of spices and flavors, which have been influenced by its history, culture, and geography. 

If you're planning a trip to Sri Lanka, make sure to try these top 25 best foods:

 

Rice and Curry

Rice and curry are the staple foods in Sri Lanka. The dish consists of steamed rice served with a variety of curries and sides, including vegetables, meat or fish, lentils, and chutneys. The curries are usually made with coconut milk and a blend of spices, such as cumin, coriander, and turmeric.

 

Hoppers

Hoppers are a popular breakfast food in Sri Lanka. They are made from a batter of fermented rice flour, coconut milk, and yeast, which is poured into a small wok-shaped pan and cooked over a low flame. The result is a crispy, bowl-shaped pancake that is perfect for dipping in curry.

 

Kottu Roti

Kottu roti is a dish made from chopped roti bread, vegetables, eggs, and spices, all fried together on a griddle. It is a popular street food and can be found at almost every corner in Sri Lanka.

 

String Hoppers

String hoppers are thin, noodle-like strands made from rice flour that are steamed and served with a variety of curries and chutneys.

 

Pol Sambol

Pol sambol is a spicy coconut relish made from grated coconut, red onions, chili powder, lime juice, and salt. It is a popular side dish that is served with almost every meal in Sri Lanka.

 

Fish Ambul Thiyal

Fish ambul thiyal is a sour fish curry made with a blend of spices, including turmeric, cinnamon, and fenugreek. It is cooked with tamarind juice, which gives it its sour taste.

 

Devilled Chicken

Devilled chicken is a spicy chicken dish that is stir-fried with onions, tomatoes, and a variety of spices, including chili powder, black pepper, and turmeric.

 

Parippu

Parippu is a lentil curry that is made with red lentils, onions, garlic, and a blend of spices. It is usually served with rice and other curries.

 

Watalappan

Watalappan is a traditional Sri Lankan dessert made with coconut milk, jaggery, and spices, including cardamom and nutmeg. It is similar to flan and is usually served cold.

 

Pittu

Pittu is a dish made from steamed cylinders of ground rice and coconut that are usually served with curries and sambols.

 

Gotu Kola Sambol

Gotu kola sambol is a salad made from finely chopped gotu kola leaves, grated coconut, red onions, chili powder, and lime juice. It is a refreshing and healthy dish that is often served as a side dish.

 

Lamprais

Lamprais is a Dutch-inspired dish that is made with rice, meat, and vegetables, all wrapped in a banana leaf and baked. It is a popular dish that is often served at special occasions.

 

Ambul Thiyal

Ambul thiyal is a sour fish curry that is similar to fish ambul thiyal, but it is made with a different blend of spices, including fenugreek and curry leaves.

 

Kukul Mas Curry

Kukul mas curry is a chicken curry that is made with a blend of spices, including cinnamon, cardamom, and curry powder. It is usually served with rice and other curries.

 

Polos

Polos is a curry made with jackfruit, which is a popular fruit in Sri Lanka. The jackfruit is cooked with a blend of spices and coconut milk, which gives it a rich and creamy texture.

 

Thosai

Thosai is a type of pancake made from a batter of fermented rice and lentil flour. It is usually served with coconut chutney, sambar, and other curries.

 

Brinjal Moju

Brinjal moju is a sweet and sour relish made from eggplant, vinegar, sugar, onions, and spices. It is a popular side dish that is served with rice and other curries.

 

Kiri Bath

Kiri bath is a traditional Sri Lankan dish that is made with rice and coconut milk. It is often served with a spicy onion relish and other curries.

 

Achcharu

Achcharu is a spicy and sour pickle made with a variety of vegetables, including carrots, onions, and green chilies. It is usually served as a side dish or a snack.

 

Woodapple Juice

Woodapple juice is a refreshing drink made from the pulp of the woodapple fruit, which is a popular fruit in Sri Lanka. It has a tangy and sour taste and is often served with sugar.

 

Kiri Hodi

Kiri hodi is a creamy coconut milk curry that is usually served with rice and other curries. It is made with a blend of spices, including turmeric and cinnamon, and is often flavored with pandan leaves.

 

Thambili

Thambili is a drink made from the juice of the king coconut, which is a variety of coconut that is native to Sri Lanka. It is a refreshing drink that is often served with ice.

 

Pol Roti

Pol roti is a flatbread made from a dough of flour, coconut, and water. It is usually served with spicy onion relish and other curries.

 

Kavum

Kavum is a sweet Sri Lankan snack made from rice flour, treacle, and coconut. It is deep-fried until crispy and is usually served during special occasions and festivals.

 

Wattalapam

Wattalapam is a dessert that is similar to watalappan, but it is made with jaggery instead of sugar. It is a creamy and sweet dessert that is usually served cold.

 

In conclusion, Sri Lankan cuisine is a unique and flavorful blend of spices, herbs, and ingredients that reflect the country's rich history and culture. From rice and curry to hoppers, kottu roti, and woodapple juice, there are so many delicious dishes to try in Sri Lanka. Whether you're a foodie or just looking to try something new, make sure to sample these top 25 best foods during your trip to Sri Lanka.

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