By Vinod Chathuranga
Sri Lankan cuisine is a treasure trove of flavors, and at its heart lies the curry—a dish as varied as it is delicious. Sri Lankan curries are a reflection of the island’s rich cultural heritage, with each variety showcasing a unique blend of spices and ingredients that create complex and unforgettable tastes. This article delves into the different types of Sri Lankan curries, from fiery fish and meat preparations to creamy coconut-based vegetable dishes, revealing traditional cooking techniques and offering a glimpse into the recipes that make Sri Lankan cuisine so distinctive.
Fiery Fish Curries
Fish curry, or “Malabar Matthi Curry,” is a staple in coastal regions of Sri Lanka, where fresh seafood is abundant. These curries are known for their robust flavors and heat, often spiced with a mix of dried red chilies, black pepper, cumin, coriander, and turmeric. One key ingredient is the “goraka” (a type of tamarind), which adds a distinct sourness that balances the heat. Traditional fish curries are typically cooked in a clay pot, known as a “chatti,” which enhances the flavor by allowing slow and even cooking.
A popular recipe involves marinating fish in a mixture of turmeric, salt, and lime juice before cooking it in a gravy made from onions, garlic, ginger, and tomatoes, spiced generously with a blend of ground spices. The curry is then simmered until the fish is tender and the flavors meld together beautifully, resulting in a dish that is both spicy and tangy, perfect with a serving of steamed rice.
Meat Curries: Rich and Flavorful
Sri Lankan meat curries, particularly those made with chicken, beef, or mutton, are characterized by their deep, rich flavors and complex spice blends. These curries often incorporate ingredients like cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and fennel seeds, which are dry-roasted and ground to create aromatic curry powders. Coconut milk is also a common addition, providing a creamy texture that balances the spices.
A traditional chicken curry, or “Kukul Mas Curry,” begins with marinating the meat in a mixture of curry powder, salt, and lime juice. The marinated chicken is then sautéed with onions, garlic, ginger, and green chilies before being simmered in coconut milk and spices. The result is a curry that is rich and creamy, with layers of flavor from the spices and the natural sweetness of the coconut milk.
Vegetable Curries: Creamy and Coconut-Based
Vegetable curries in Sri Lanka are often coconut-based, providing a creamy contrast to the spicier meat and fish curries. These curries make use of a variety of vegetables such as pumpkin, eggplant, and green beans, often cooked with fresh coconut milk and a milder spice blend.
One popular dish is the “Parippu” (dhal curry), made from split red lentils cooked in coconut milk with onions, garlic, and green chilies. The addition of turmeric and cumin gives the dhal a warm, golden color and a mildly spiced flavor. This simple yet delicious curry is a staple in Sri Lankan households, typically served with rice and a side of fried onions or “pol sambol” (a spicy coconut relish).
Traditional Cooking Techniques
The preparation of Sri Lankan curries involves several traditional techniques that contribute to their unique flavors. One such technique is “tempering,” where whole spices like mustard seeds, cumin seeds, and curry leaves are fried in hot oil to release their essential oils and enhance their flavors. This tempered mixture is often added at the beginning of the cooking process to form the flavor base of the curry.
Another technique is the use of a clay pot for cooking, which is believed to improve the taste of the curry by allowing even heat distribution and slow cooking. This method helps in extracting maximum flavor from the ingredients, resulting in a richer and more aromatic dish.
The art of Sri Lankan curry-making is a testament to the island’s culinary richness and diversity. From the fiery fish curries of the coast to the creamy, coconut-based vegetable dishes of the interior, each curry tells a story of tradition, culture, and flavor. By understanding the various types of curries and the traditional techniques used in their preparation, one can truly appreciate the depth and complexity of Sri Lankan cuisine. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a curious foodie, exploring the world of Sri Lankan curries promises a rewarding and delicious journey.
