Food & Drink in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, is known for its diverse and flavorful cuisine. Food and drink in Sri Lanka is a culture that have been shaped by its history, geography, and the various ethnic groups that make up its population.

One of the most popular dishes in Sri Lanka is rice and curry. This traditional dish comprises various curries, typically made with vegetables, fish, or meat, served with steamed rice. The curries are made with a blend of spices and coconut milk, giving them a unique and complex flavor.

Sri Lanka’s food and drink culture are not limited to its traditional dishes, as it has also been influenced by the various ethnic groups that make up its population. Indian and Chinese influences can be found in Sri Lanka’s food, mainly its street food.

One of the most iconic dishes in Sri Lanka is “rice and curry.” This traditional meal is a staple of Sri Lankan cuisine and consists of a plate of steamed rice served with a variety of curries made with vegetables, seafood, or meat. The curries are made with a blend of spices, including cinnamon, cardamom, and curry leaves, and are often quite spicy. The best place to try rice and curry is at a local restaurant or at a street food stall, where you can sample a variety of curries and find your favorite.

Another popular dish in Sri Lanka is “dosa.” This is a type of South Indian crepe made with a fermented batter of rice and lentils. It’s often filled with a spicy potato mixture and served with a variety of chutneys and sambar, a type of lentil-based stew. Dosa is a popular breakfast dish and can be found at many street food stalls and restaurants throughout the country.

Sri Lanka is also famous for its seafood. The country’s long coastline and warm waters provide abundant fresh fish and seafood. Some popular dishes include “ambul thiyal,” a sour fish curry, and “prawn curry,” made with succulent prawns in a spicy coconut milk-based sauce.