A popular Sri Lankan curry especially for vegetarians and vegans- Polos curry – By Nadeeka – eLanka

A popular Sri Lankan curry especially for vegetarians and vegans – Polos curry – By Nadeeka – eLanka

“Polos” is a Sinhalese word that refers to unripe jackfruit, and “Polos curry” is a popular Sri Lankan curry made using unripe jackfruit as the main ingredient. Polos curry is a staple dish in Sri Lankan cuisine and is enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds.

To make Polos curry, unripe jackfruit is cooked in a flavorful blend of spices, including turmeric, chili powder, coriander, cumin, and fenugreek, along with coconut milk and other aromatic ingredients such as garlic, ginger, and curry leaves. The jackfruit is cooked until it becomes tender and absorbs the flavors of the spices and coconut milk, resulting in a delicious and hearty vegetarian dish.

Polos curry is typically served with rice, and is often accompanied by other Sri Lankan dishes such as dhal curry, beetroot curry, and coconut sambol. It is a great option for vegetarians and vegans, as it is packed with flavor and nutrients, and is also gluten-free.

There are several potential health benefits associated with eating Polos curry:

1. High in fiber: Unripe jackfruit is a good source of dietary fiber, which can help promote digestive health and prevent constipation.
2. Rich in vitamins and minerals: Polos curry contains a variety of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, and calcium.
3. Low in calories: Polos curry is a low-calorie dish that can help support weight management goals.
4. May help regulate blood sugar levels: Some studies have suggested that the fiber and antioxidants found in unripe jackfruit may help regulate blood sugar levels, making it a potentially beneficial food for people with diabetes.
5. May have anti-inflammatory properties: Unripe jackfruit contains several compounds with anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the body and support overall health.

here is a traditional recipe for Sri Lankan Polos curry:

Ingredients:

• 500g unripe jackfruit (polos)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• 2 green chilies, chopped
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 2 teaspoons chili powder
• 2 teaspoons coriander powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon fenugreek powder
• 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
• 2 cups coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons oil
• Salt to taste
• Curry leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cut the unripe jackfruit into small pieces and remove the core and seeds.
2. Heat the oil in a large pot and add the mustard seeds, fennel seeds, and cumin seeds. Fry for 1-2 minutes until the mustard seeds start to pop.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, and chopped green chilies to the pot and fry for a few minutes until the onions are translucent.
4. Add the turmeric powder, chili powder, coriander powder, cumin powder, and fenugreek powder to the pot and stir well.
5. Add the chopped jackfruit to the pot and stir to coat with the spice mixture.
6. Pour in the coconut milk and stir well. Add salt to taste.
7. Bring the curry to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 30-40 minutes or until the jackfruit is tender.
8. Garnish with curry leaves and serve hot with rice.

Enjoy your authentic Sri Lankan Polos curry!