Most Popular Sri Lankan Dishes You Must Try

Sri Lankan cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavours, combining fresh ingredients with aromatic spices to create dishes that are both comforting and exciting. At Ceylon and Beyond, we are passionate about bringing these authentic flavours to your plate. We use locally sourced fresh produce, organic grains and pulses, and free-range, high welfare animal products, all cooked in extra virgin coconut oil. Our single origin whole spice blends, sourced from our land in Sri Lanka, include Ceylon cinnamon and cloves, sun-dried curry and pandan leaves, organic butterfly pea flower, Ceylon tea, and more. Here are some of the most popular Sri Lankan dishes you must try:

 

Short Eats

1. Sri Lankan Rolls (ve)

These delightful rolls are packed with mixed seasonal vegetables and potatoes, all wrapped in a crispy pancake coated in Panko breadcrumbs. Perfect as a snack or appetiser, they offer a crunchy exterior with a flavourful and hearty filling.

 

 

2. Dal Vada (ve, gf)

Dal Vada are crispy lentil and yellow split-pea fritters, combined with red onion, curry leaves, and fresh green chilli. These fritters are a perfect blend of textures and spices, making them an irresistible treat.

 

 

3. Fish Cutlets

A favourite among seafood lovers, these cutlets are made with smoked tuna, green onion, and spiced potato, all coated in a crunchy exterior. They are flavourful, with a perfect balance of spice and herbs.

4. Cauliflower Popcorn (ve)

Soft cauliflower florets are dipped in a tempura batter, then fried to perfection and topped with green onions and fresh herbs. This vegan snack is both crunchy and delicious, making it a great choice for any occasion.

 

 

5. Egg Hoppers (v)

Egg Hoppers are a unique Sri Lankan dish made from fermented rice flour, shaped into a bowl-like pancake with a crispy edge and soft centre, often topped with a baked egg. It’s a delightful combination of textures and flavours, perfect for breakfast or brunch.

 

 

6. Sweet Hoppers (v)

For a sweet twist, try our Sweet Hoppers, which come with a choice of Nutella and banana or fruit compote and yoghurt. These sweet variations are a delightful way to end a meal or enjoy as a special treat.

 

Lankan Bowls

7. Coconut Dal (ve)

A classic in every Sri Lankan kitchen, Coconut Dal is made from split red lentils cooked in coconut milk and turmeric. This creamy and mildly spiced curry is a comforting dish that pairs wonderfully with basmati rice.

8. Ceylon Chicken Curry

Our Ceylon Chicken Curry features marinated chicken thighs in a rich, medium-spiced gravy. This dish is a perfect example of the depth of flavour in Sri Lankan cuisine, offering a satisfying and hearty meal.

9. Black Pork Curry

Black Pork Curry is a traditional dish made with tender pork belly cooked in a dark toasted spice sauce. The complex flavours and rich texture make this curry a favourite among meat lovers.

 

 

10. Jackfruit Curry (ve)

Green baby jackfruit chunks are spiced with roasted Sri Lankan curry powder and goraka paste. This vegan curry is unique for its meat-like texture and robust flavours, offering a delicious alternative for vegetarians and vegans.

11. Cashew Nut Fry (ve)

Soft cashew nuts are fried with chilli and fresh curry leaves, creating a crunchy and spicy dish that is both unique and flavourful. It’s a wonderful accompaniment to any meal.

 

 

12. Kothu Roti (v)

Kothu Roti is a popular street food made by stir-frying shredded roti bread with mixed seasonal vegetables, egg, and Sri Lankan seasoning. It’s a delightful mix of textures and flavours, with options to customise with additional curry or make it vegan or gluten-free.

 

 

Desserts

No Sri Lankan meal is complete without a sweet ending. Our dessert capture the essence of Sri Lankan flavours, providing a perfect finish to your culinary journey.

 

 

Popular Desserts

• Watalappan: A traditional coconut custard pudding made with jaggery, coconut milk, and a hint of spice.
• Kiribath: Milk rice often served with a sweet coconut filling or treacle.
• Coconut Toffee: A delightful mix of coconut and jaggery, offering a sweet and chewy treat.

 

 

At Ceylon and Beyond, we believe that food is medicine, both for the body and soul. We promote healthy, sustainable choices in every dish we serve, using only the best ingredients to create authentic Sri Lankan cuisine that nourishes and delights. Experience the vibrant and diverse flavours of Sri Lanka with every bite. Your culinary adventure awaits!