Sri Lanka is known for its rich culinary heritage, with a wide array of flavors, spices, and ingredients that come together to create a unique dining experience. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Sri Lankan buffets offer a chance to indulge in the island's most beloved dishes, all in one sitting. If you’re planning to explore the vibrant buffet scene in Sri Lanka, here are the top 5 Sri Lankan buffet favorites you absolutely can’t miss.
1. Sri Lankan Rice and Curry
No Sri Lankan buffet is complete without the iconic Rice and Curry. This staple dish consists of a generous serving of rice accompanied by a variety of curries, each bursting with flavor. You’ll find a range of vegetable, meat, and seafood curries, including the popular dhal curry (lentils), eggplant moju, and fish ambul thiyal (sour fish curry). These curries are typically flavored with a blend of spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, and curry leaves, giving them a unique and aromatic taste. A serving of papadam (crispy lentil crackers) and pickle usually accompanies the dish, adding a delightful crunch and tang to the meal.
2. Hoppers
Hoppers or appa are a Sri Lankan favorite and a must-have at any buffet. These thin, bowl-shaped pancakes are made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, creating a crispy edge with a soft, slightly spongy center. They are usually served with a variety of accompaniments, such as seeni sambol (sweet onion relish), dhal, or egg hoppers, where an egg is cracked into the center of the batter while it's cooking. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast dish or as part of a larger buffet, hoppers provide a comforting and unique flavor experience.
3. Kottu Roti
With good reason, kottu roti, a popular street dish in Sri Lanka, has appeared on buffet menus! Kottu Roti is a tasty and satisfying dish made by stir-frying godamba roti (flatbread) with a range of ingredients such as vegetables, eggs, chicken, meat, or seafood. The ingredients are diced and combined with a delectable blend of spices over a hot griddle to create a pleasing juxtaposition of flavors and textures. To accommodate a variety of palates, buffets may also offer Kottu in multiple forms, like vegetarian or cheese varieties.
4. Bonus: Dessert - Watalappan
Watalappan, a rich Sri Lankan dessert prepared with coconut milk, jaggery, eggs, and a mixture of spices like cardamom and nutmeg, is a great way to cap out your buffet experience on a sweet note. This smooth, custard-like pudding is a great way to finish off a meal and is frequently served cold. With a delightful and decadent finish, this well-liked dish showcases Sri Lanka's passion for coconut and spices.
Conclusion
The buffet options available on the island are far more extensive than these top 5 Sri Lankan buffet favorites. Every meal offers a different window into Sri Lanka's rich culinary culture, from savory rice and curry dishes to sweet delights like watalappan. Sri Lankan buffets have something for everyone, whether you're in the mood for fresh seafood, crispy hoppers, or traditional curries.
Are you prepared to sample these variety of treats? You may quickly and conveniently book your preferred buffet items with RUSH by appiGo, no waiting, no worry. Today, indulge on a delicious Sri Lankan buffet!
