Embarking on a culinary journey is one of the top things to do Down South on your vacation. Indulge in the rich and diverse flavours of its traditional cuisine. Here are four delectable dishes you must try:

Ambulthiyal

Ambulthiyal is a mouthwatering fish curry that hails from the southern coast of Sri Lanka. Made with slices of fish, typically tuna, marinated in a blend of spices including goraka (a souring agent), black pepper, and cinnamon, Ambulthiyal is then simmered until the flavours meld together to create a tangy and aromatic curry. This dish is a true representation of Sri Lankan culinary heritage and is sure to tantalize your taste buds.

Kottu

Often referred to as Sri Lanka’s answer to fast food, is a popular street food dish made with chopped roti (flatbread), vegetables, eggs, and a choice of meat or seafood, all stir-fried together on a hot griddle. The rhythmic chopping of the ingredients with metal spatulas is part of the charm of this dish, which is then seasoned with a spicy curry sauce. Kottu is a hearty and satisfying meal that is beloved by locals and visitors alike.

Lamprais

Lamprais | Image by AntanO via Wikimedia Commons,CC BY-SA 4.0 DEED

Lamprais is a traditional Sri Lankan dish that consists of rice cooked with a variety of spices and meats, typically chicken, beef, or mutton, along with accompaniments such as boiled eggs, fried brinjal (eggplant), and aubergine curry, all wrapped in a banana leaf and baked until fragrant and tender. The combination of flavours and textures in Lamprais makes it a unique and delicious dish that is often enjoyed during festive occasions and special gatherings.

Polos

This is young jackfruit curry, a beloved vegetarian dish in Sri Lanka that is bursting with flavour and nutritional benefits. The tender jackfruit is simmered in a fragrant curry made with coconut milk, onions, garlic, and a blend of aromatic spices until it is soft and flavorful. Polos is often served with rice or roti and is a favourite among both vegetarians and meat lovers for its hearty and satisfying taste. It quite a popular item at lunch buffets by hotels like Heritance Ahungalla.