Our guide on the most popular food in Sri Lanka, Rice and curry to try to cook at home.
Sri Lankan cuisine is renowned for its aromatic spices, rich flavors, and diverse dishes. One of the most popular and quintessential dishes in Sri Lanka is Rice and Curry. This dish typically includes a combination of several curries served with rice, offering a variety of flavors and textures in one meal. Here’s a detailed recipe guide, tips, and calorie information for a traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry meal.
Sri Lankan rice and curry is a flavorful and satisfying meal that showcases the rich culinary heritage of the country. By following this recipe guide, you can enjoy a taste of Sri Lanka’s most popular dish in the comfort of your home.
Adjust the spices and ingredients to suit your taste, and savor the delicious combination of rice, curries, and sambol. Enjoy your culinary journey to Sri Lanka!
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How To Make Homemade Rice And Curry
Rice And Curry Recipe Ingredients
For the Rice:
2 cups basmati rice
4 cups water
1 teaspoon salt
For the Chicken Curry:
1 pound chicken thighs, cut into pieces
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, minced
2 tablespoons curry powder
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin powder
1 cinnamon stick
4-5 curry leaves
1 cup coconut milk
1 cup water
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Salt to taste
For the Dal Curry (Lentil Curry):
1 cup red lentils
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch ginger, minced
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 teaspoon mustard seeds
4-5 curry leaves
2 green chilies, sliced
1 cup coconut milk
2 cups water
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Salt to taste
For the Coconut Sambol:
1 cup freshly grated coconut
1 small red onion, finely chopped
1-2 red chilies, finely chopped
Juice of 1 lime
Salt to taste
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Step By Step How to Make Rice And Curry
Prepare the Rice
Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
Add the rice and salt, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork and set aside.
Make the Chicken Curry
In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté until the onion is golden brown.
Add the curry powder, turmeric powder, chili powder, cumin powder, and cinnamon stick. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the chicken pieces and curry leaves. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides.
Add the coconut milk and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the curry has thickened. Season with salt to taste.
Make the Dal Curry
Rinse the red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium pot, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion, garlic, ginger, cumin seeds, mustard seeds, and curry leaves. Sauté until the onion is golden brown and the seeds begin to pop.
Add the lentils, turmeric powder, and green chilies. Cook for 1-2 minutes. Add the coconut milk and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the curry has thickened. Season with salt to taste.
Make the Coconut Sambol
In a bowl, combine the grated coconut, chopped red onion, red chilies, lime juice, and salt. Mix well.
Serve
Serve the cooked rice on plates. Spoon the chicken curry and dal curry over the rice. Serve the coconut sambol on the side.
Garnish with fresh curry leaves or cilantro if desired.
Tips To Make Rice And Curry
Adjust the amount of chili powder and fresh chilies to your preferred spice level. You can substitute chicken with other proteins like fish, beef, or tofu.
Use vegetable broth instead of water for a richer flavor in the curries. Use fresh coconut for the sambol for the best flavor.
How Many Calories Have Rice And Curry
Rice: 200 calories per cup
Chicken Curry: 300-350 calories per serving
Dal Curry: 250 calories per serving
Coconut Sambol: 50 calories per serving
Total Estimated Calories per Serving: 800-850 calories
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues sharing his travel experiences with his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.