As part of the ancient spice route, it only makes sense that Sri Lankan cuisine is complex in flavor and execution. Influenced by Asia and India, dishes are often the perfect balance of spicy and sweet, rich and light. As far as cooking Sri Lankan food: Much like the spice route itself, we suggest you start at the beginning and master the fundamentals like Pol Roti.
Pol Roti is a beloved Sri Lankan flatbread. Crafted with grated coconut and fragrant spices, it offers a wonderful medley of textures and flavors. Here is how to make it.
Pol Roti Recipe
This coconut flatbread is a popular accompaniment to many Sri Lankan dishes. It’s often served at breakfast but is also the perfect vehicle for scooping up mouthfuls of curry.
Serves 6
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup shredded Coconut
1 teaspoon Kosher salt
4 small onions, chopped finely
1 cup water
2 green chilies, deseeded and minced
1 tablespoon butter
Procedure
Mix the flour, coconut, salt, onion, and chilies in a large bowl. Add the water and grease your hands with the butter to avoid the dough sticking to your palms. Begin to knead the dough. It should come together to form a ball and not be too sticky. You can adjust the consistency by adding more flour if it’s too sticky or more water if it’s too dry. Divide the dough into six equal-sized balls. Flour your board and rolling pin and roll each ball into a round roti about 1/4-inch thick. Heat a flat griddle pan over medium heat and add the roti. Cook each side until golden brown. Serve hot with the desired curry.
Cooking Gadgets:
Cast-iron Griddle
Achieve those perfect flatbread blisters when cooking on a searing-hot cast-iron griddle.
Lodge Logic Round Griddle, $22.95, www.lodgemfg.com/
Stainless Steel Saute Pan
Since most Sri Lankan cooking is done on the stove, it’s wise to invest in a stainless steel pan.
All-Clad Saute Pan, $295, www.bloomingdales.com
Spice Rack
Each Sri Lankan dish contains at least two spices—better start building your repertoire with this rotating rack.
Two-Tier Revolving Spice Rack, $22.95, www.williams-sonoma.com
