Imagine sitting down for a meal amid lush greenery, with birds chirping away and a gentle, slightly warm breeze enveloping you snugly, you look down, and the first thing you see is colour, lots, and lots of colour. A dish that’s bursting with deep red’s, leafy greens, and shades of yellow’s sitting on a bed of white rice. Almost at the same time, your sense of smell takes over, the aromatic spices blending so well with onions, garlic, and ginger, and of course the distinctive smell of chillies. We perceive the world through our five senses; sight, smell, hearing, taste, and touch, and great food manages to trigger all five, creating lasting memories.
Sri Lanka is a land of many wonders, and these wonders are widely spoken about in travel circles as must-enjoy experiences. In the recent past, the country has been featured in numerous global publications as one of the best destinations to visit. Among the long list of wonders, there is an indelible experience that every explorer goes through in this paradise island, which is the taste, smell, and memory of the country’s exotic food. Food that has captured the imagination of fans and critics alike, to the point that local recipes rich in tradition and flavour are being replicated in homes overseas. Additionally, spices and condiments are bought and eagerly taken back, serving as essential ingredients to recapture the essence of these gastronomic experiences.
The history and legacy of Sri Lankan cuisine and native ingredients
The culinary tale of Sri Lanka is a narrative steeped in history and tradition, tracing its roots back 45,000 years (Journal of Ethnic Foods). From the ancient cave dwellers who foraged for sustenance amidst the lush landscapes to the bustling markets influenced by centuries of colonization, royal unions, and maritime trade, the evolution of Sri Lankan cuisine is a testament to the island’s rich cultural heritage.
At the heart of Sri Lankan gastronomy lies the enduring legacy of rice and curry—a staple diet woven into the fabric of daily life for generations. Whether enjoyed by farmers toiling in the fields or savoured at elaborate feasts, the balance of spices—pure Ceylon cinnamon, cardamom, pepper, and more—instils in each dish a depth of flavour that is uniquely Sri Lankan.
Beyond their culinary prowess, the native spices and an array of plant-based herbs are also respected for their potent medicinal properties (Medicinal plants use for home remedies in Sri Lanka). In the realm of traditional healing, Sri Lanka’s ancient practices of holistic medicine have stood the test of time for over 3000 years (History of Ayurveda), dating back to the eras of monarchic rule. Through centuries of diligent study and practice, the health benefits derived from these natural wonders have been meticulously documented and perfected, serving as a cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s enduring wellness traditions.
Ethnic diversity and foreign influences in Sri Lankan cuisine
Sri Lanka’s diverse culinary landscape mirrors its main ethnic groups. Each group boasts its own unique culture, culinary traditions, and preferred cooking methods. Clay pots, cherished for enhancing flavours, are a common fixture in Sri Lankan kitchens. Tamil cuisine, reminiscent of South India, carries a rich historical legacy, influenced by centuries of cultural exchange. The Moors, descendants of Middle Eastern traders who intermarried with Sinhalese locals, have left an indelible mark on the island’s gastronomy. Similarly, Malays, arriving in the 13th century, introduced iconic dishes like Malay Pickle (Types of Sri Lankan Pickle) and Watalappan. The Dutch Burghers, have contributed their own culinary delights, including the unmissable Lamprais (Lamprais keeps the Dutch Burgher legacy alive). Whether arriving by air or sea, visitors to Colombo—the commercial hub of Sri Lanka—can savour an assorted array of dishes representing these diverse cultural influences, alongside other international cuisines.
Watalappan: The irresistible temptation in Sri Lankan desserts
No meal in this island would be complete without a delightful dessert. The abundance of tropical fruits, including bananas, mangoes, pineapples, and papayas, offer a refreshing option for both locals and visitors. These fruits can be combined to create a tantalizing fruit salad, bursting with flavours. Another popular choice is curd or yogurt, drizzled with kithul or coconut treacle, providing a soothing treat for the palate.
For an indulgent experience though, one must not miss Watalappan (A Sri Lankan dessert that’s impossible not to love), a delectable dessert made from coconut milk, eggs, unrefined jaggery, and a blend of aromatic spices like cardamom, cloves, and nutmeg. Topped with crunchy cashew nuts, Watalappan entices you to indulge in second and third servings, casting aside any caution in favour of its irresistible allure.
Ideal destination for vegans and some delectable experiences
For the vegan traveller, Sri Lanka offers a bounty of plant-based delights (Culture Tuesday – Vegan Sri Lankan Cuisine), rooted in centuries-old traditions of vegetarian cuisine, some of it stemming from religious customs (Vegan Guide to Sri Lanka). Many local meat-free dishes naturally cater to vegan preferences and when dining out, inquiring about vegan/vegetarian options is effortless, as most restaurants feature vegetable-centric meals with the option to add meat if desired. Additionally, there are restaurants that cater exclusively to vegan diners.
When traveling in South Asia, numerous vegans often inquire about the use of ghee in cooking. This question can be posed to any restaurant or local eatery, and they are usually happy to provide an answer. In Sri Lanka, many dishes are typically prepared using coconut oil or vegetable oil, with ghee being seldom used. However, establishments are accommodating and will gladly address any inquiries regarding ingredients.
When you’re in the country, don’t miss the opportunity to savour Thambili, also known as King Coconut, with its delicious kernel offering a refreshing treat. Sri Lankan cashew nuts, harvested once a year, are renowned for their creamy texture and rich flavour. Indulge in Wood Apple, easily scooped out with a spoon, and enjoyed as a delectable dessert or blended into a delightful smoothie with a touch of salt and sugar. Anoda, also known as Soursop, delights the palate with its exquisite taste. These are only a few of the delicious adventures you can experience in Sri Lanka.
Enjoy the food of the Veddas — Sri Lanka’s indigenous people
For those seeking to delve deeper into Sri Lanka’s culinary heritage, a visit to the indigenous Vedda community (Sri Lanka’s last indigenous people) offers a glimpse into a world untouched by time. Here, amidst the lush forests and rolling hills, ancient traditions of hunting and gathering have given way to a simpler way of life—one that is deeply connected to the land and its bounty. Travelers to Sri Lanka can engage with the indigenous community, believed to be descendants of the island’s earliest inhabitants.
Once hunter-gatherers, they have adapted to agricultural practices in compliance with hunting regulations. With shifting lifestyles, they increasingly incorporate vegetables, yams, and tubers into their diets while reducing meat consumption. Exploring their food habits and lifestyle promises to be an enlightening experience for every visitor.
Try once and you will come back for more
The Sri Lanka Tourism tagline proudly states, “You will come back for more” (Sri Lanka unveils new tourism tag), and indeed, the flavours of Sri Lanka linger long after the journey has ended, beckoning travellers to return time and time again in search of new culinary adventures. This country cannot be fully appreciated or experienced in one short visit, and that goes double for the food. For in this island, every meal is not just a feast for the senses but a celebration of life itself—an affirmation of the island’s vibrant spirit and enduring culinary heritage. With a plethora of gastronomical delights available including native superfoods, such as, Moringa, Turmeric, and Jackfruit you will have to come back to this tropical island again and again to try them.
Great food creates great memories, and coupled with world class hospitality, the culinary journey in Sri Lanka is unlike any other.
