Just as exotic and captivating as its culture, Sri Lanka boasts truly distinctive cuisine that will have your taste buds in raptures of delight! Here are some not to be missed favourites.

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Chicken Curry

The ideal accompaniment to rice or roti, chicken or “kukul mas” curry in Sri Lanka is spicy and consists of a thick gravy. It is readily available across the island be it at a Colombo or Sigiriya restaurant and is usually made with curry powder, chilli powder, coconut milk, lemongrass and turmeric.

Hoppers

Hoppers are similar to pancakes though it has a crispy bowl-shaped element to it too! Available at street-side eateries as well as hotels the likes of Sigiriya Jungles, this dish consists of a batter (made with coconut milk and rice flour) that is fried in a small bowl-shaped wok. Some versions are sweet, while others have an egg fried in the middle.

Green Jackfruit Curry

Locally known as “polos” curry, this dish consists of green jackfruit that has a starchy consistency. Sliced and boiled till it’s soft, the fruit is cooked with ingredients such as chilli powder, mustard seeds, garlic, onions, ginger and not forgetting coconut milk; they all combine to give it a heavenly flavour!

Kottu Roti

Another “must try” on your foodie adventures, Kottu Roti is readily available at a number of street-side eateries. The process of making this dish which involves a lot of slicing and dicing is worth watching, while the chopped up godamba roti stir-fried with meats and spices is a definite street food favourite.