Sri Lanka, a jewel in the Indian Ocean, boasts a vibrant and diverse culinary scene. And what better way to start your day than with a delicious Sri Lankan breakfast? Forget boring toast; we're diving into a world of flavour, texture, and aromatic spices. These breakfast recipes offer a delightful glimpse into the island's rich food culture, perfect for home cooks of all skill levels. Whether you're looking for quick dinner ideas or simply crave a healthy and delicious meal, these recipes are sure to please. Get ready to experience the best recipes Sri Lanka has to offer!
String Hoppers with Coconut Sambol (String Hoppers Recipe)
This classic Sri Lankan breakfast is a true delight. The delicate, cylindrical string hoppers are perfectly complemented by the spicy, tangy coconut sambol. It's a healthy meal, packed with flavour, and surprisingly easy to make.
Ingredients:
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For the String Hoppers:
- 1 cup rice flour
- 1/2 cup water
- Pinch of salt
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For the Coconut Sambol:
- 1 cup freshly grated coconut
- 1-2 red chilies, finely chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
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Prepare the Batter: In a bowl, whisk together the rice flour, water, and salt until you have a smooth, slightly thick batter. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
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Make the String Hoppers: If you have a string hopper maker, great! Fill each compartment about ¾ full with batter. Steam for 10-15 minutes, or until cooked through. If you don’t have a maker, you can use a piping bag or a ziplock bag with a corner snipped off to pipe the batter onto a greased steamer basket.
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Prepare the Sambol: While the hoppers are steaming, combine the grated coconut, chilies, onion, lime juice, and salt in a bowl. Mix well.
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Serve: Once the string hoppers are cooked, gently remove them from the steamer. Serve immediately with a generous spoonful of coconut sambol.
Tips and Variations:
- For a sweeter sambol, add a teaspoon of sugar.
- You can add other ingredients to the sambol, such as chopped tomatoes or roasted peanuts.
- Leftover string hoppers can be enjoyed cold or reheated.
Milk Rice (Kiribath)
This creamy, comforting rice dish is a staple in Sri Lankan cuisine and a beloved breakfast option. It's incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed plain or with various accompaniments.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rice
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup coconut milk
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon ghee or butter (optional)
Instructions:
- Rinse the Rice: Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Cook the Rice: Combine the rinsed rice, water, and salt in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the water is absorbed.
- Add Coconut Milk: Stir in the coconut milk and ghee (if using). Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the milk is absorbed and the rice is creamy.
- Serve: Serve warm. Kiribath is delicious on its own, or with your favorite curries, sambols, or even some jaggery (palm sugar).
Nutritional Information (Approximate values, per serving):
String Hoppers with Sambol: Calories: 250-300, Protein: 5-7g, Carbohydrates: 50-60g, Fat: 8-10g.
Milk Rice (Kiribath): Calories: 200-250, Protein: 3-5g, Carbohydrates: 40-50g, Fat: 5-7g.
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
These delicious and easy recipes are a fantastic introduction to Sri Lankan breakfast cuisine. Enjoy exploring these homemade cooking options, and discover the delightful tastes of the island nation!