Sri Lanka is a tropical paradise known for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Among its many attractions, one aspect that stands out is its delectable cuisine. Sri Lankan traditional food is a delightful blend of flavors, influenced by a diverse range of cultures and ingredients. For travelers seeking an authentic taste of this beautiful island nation, here are the top 7 Sri Lankan traditional food you must try.

Why travelers should try Sri Lanka traditional food

Sri Lankan cuisine is a fusion of various cultures and influences, including Indian, Dutch, Portuguese, and British. This unique blend creates a diverse range of flavors and dishes that are not to be missed by any traveler. The traditional food in Sri Lanka is known for its bold spices, aromatic herbs, and fresh ingredients. From rice and curry to hoppers and string hoppers, the country offers an array of mouth-watering dishes that cater to all tastes. Trying Sri Lankan traditional food is an excellent way to immerse oneself in the local culture and experience the true essence of the country.

7 must-experience Sri Lankan traditional food for travelers

Below are the top 7 must-experience Sri Lankan traditional food for travelers.

Rice and Curry

The first dish in the top 7 Sri Lankan traditional food list is Rice and Curry. Rice and Curry is the quintessential Sri Lankan meal and a staple in every household. It typically consists of a plate of steamed rice served with an assortment of curries, both vegetarian and non-vegetarian, along with side dishes such as sambols (spicy condiments) and papadums. The curries are rich and flavorful, often made with coconut milk, spices, and fresh herbs. You can find a variety of options, including fish, chicken, beef, and an array of vegetable curries. The balance of spices and textures in a well-prepared Sri Lankan Rice and Curry is simply heavenly.

Rice and Curry is the quintessential Sri Lankan meal and a staple in every household

Hoppers (Appa)

Hoppers are a unique Sri Lankan dish, resembling thin, bowl-shaped pancakes made from rice flour and coconut milk. These crispy-edged creations come in various forms, including plain hoppers, egg hoppers (with an egg cooked inside), and string hoppers (pressed rice noodles). They are often served with dhal (lentil curry) and coconut sambol. Hoppers are a delightful breakfast item but can be enjoyed at any time of day.

Hoppers are a unique Sri Lankan dish, resembling thin, bowl-shaped pancakes

Kottu Roti

Next is Kottu Roti in the top 7 Sri Lankan traditional food. Kottu Roti is a popular street food dish in Sri Lanka, made by chopping up godamba roti (a type of flatbread) and stir-frying it with a mixture of vegetables, eggs, and your choice of meat or seafood. The dish is seasoned with an array of spices and often served with a spicy curry sauce. The rhythmic chopping sound of the metal spatulas on the griddle is a familiar and enticing sound at Sri Lankan street food stalls, making Kottu Roti not only delicious but also a feast for the senses.

Kottu Roti is a popular street food dish in Sri Lanka 

String Hoppers (Idiyappam)

String Hoppers, or Idiyappam, are delicate, thread-like rice noodles steamed to perfection. These gluten-free noodles are typically served with a variety of curries and coconut sambol. The mild, slightly chewy texture of string hoppers complements the rich flavors of the curries, creating a harmonious blend of taste and texture that's unique to Sri Lankan cuisine.

String Hoppers are served with a variety of curries and coconut sambol

Pol Sambol

Another one in the top 7 Sri Lankan traditional food list is Pol Sambol. It is a fiery coconut relish that adds flavor and spice to any Sri Lankan meal. Made with freshly grated coconut, red onions, chili peppers, lime juice, and Maldive fish (a type of cured fish), this condiment is a must-try for those who love bold flavors. Pol Sambol can be eaten with rice and curry or as a side dish to hoppers and other Sri Lankan specialties.

Pol Sambol is a fiery coconut relish that adds flavor and spice to any Sri Lankan meal

Lamprais

Lamprais is a Dutch-influenced dish that reflects Sri Lanka's colonial history. It consists of a fragrant rice dish cooked with a mixture of spices, including cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon, along with a combination of meat (usually chicken, beef, or pork), wrapped in a banana leaf and baked to perfection. The result is a flavorful, aromatic, and satisfying meal that is both comforting and exotic.

Lamprais is a Dutch-influenced dish that reflects Sri Lanka's colonial history

Kiribath

The last dish in the top 7 Sri Lankan traditional food list is Kiribath. Kiribath, meaning "milk rice," is a simple yet cherished Sri Lankan dish traditionally prepared to celebrate special occasions and festivals. It is made by cooking rice with coconut milk until it becomes creamy and thick, then cutting it into diamond-shaped pieces. Kiribath is often served with a sweet accompaniment, such as jaggery (palm sugar) or a spicy onion and chili sambol. This dish offers a delightful blend of creamy and savory flavors that capture the essence of Sri Lankan cuisine.

Kiribath is made by cooking rice with coconut milk until it becomes creamy and thick

Sri Lankan traditional food offers a vibrant tapestry of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Whether you are a fan of spicy dishes or prefer milder flavors, Sri Lankan cuisine has something to offer every palate. When traveling to Sri Lanka, make it a point to savor these seven traditional foods, and you will be taking a culinary journey that mirrors the diversity and richness of this beautiful island nation. Bon appétit!