Here is a popular Sri Lankan dish recipe: “Lamprais” – By Nadeeka – eLanka
Lamprais is a traditional Sri Lankan dish that is made of steamed rice and a variety of side dishes, wrapped in a banana leaf and slow-cooked over low heat. The main components of Lamprais typically include rice, meat (such as chicken or beef), vegetables, and spices. The dish is known for its unique blend of flavors and aromas, which come from the use of various spices and herbs, as well as the banana leaf, which imparts a distinct aroma and flavor to the dish. Lamprais is often served on special occasions or for festive meals, and is considered to be a staple of Sri Lankan cuisine.
Lamprais
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Basmati Rice
- 2 medium sized onions, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 tablespoon cumin seeds
- 1 tablespoon coriander powder
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 cup of diced vegetables (carrots, green beans, and eggplant)
- 1 can of chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 pound boneless chicken pieces
- 1 banana leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the “Bundi” (Fried Onion Garnish):
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- 1 cup of gram flour
- 1 tablespoon rice flour
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- Salt and water to make a batter
- 1 cup of oil for frying
Instructions:
- Rinse the basmati rice and soak for 20 minutes.
- In a large saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat and add the chopped onions, garlic, cumin seeds, coriander powder, turmeric powder, fennel seeds, and cinnamon sticks.
- Cook until the onions are soft and translucent.
- Add the diced vegetables and cook for a few minutes.
- Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides.
- Pour in the can of chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Add the soaked rice to the pan and stir to combine.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a lid and let it cook for 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked through and the liquid has been absorbed.
- For the “Bundi”, in a separate bowl, mix together the gram flour, rice flour, chili powder, baking powder, and salt with enough water to make a batter.
- Heat the oil in a pan for frying and drop spoonfuls of the batter into the hot oil.
- Fry until golden brown and crispy.
- Wrap the cooked rice, chicken, and vegetables in a banana leaf and steam for 10 minutes.
- Serve hot with the fried “Bundi” on the side.
Enjoy your delicious Lamprais!
