A Step-by-Step Guide to Making Delicious Sri Lankan Curry at Home

Sri Lankan curry being served at Lanzarote Island. Image taken by Arushi Sana

If you’re a fan of spicy food, then you’re sure to love Sri Lankan curry. This popular dish is known for its bold flavors and aromatic spices that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. While you may be able to find Sri Lankan curry at a restaurant, there’s nothing quite like making it at home. In this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to make Sri Lankan curry that’s sure to impress your friends and family.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

The first step in making Sri Lankan curry is to gather your ingredients. Here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need:

  • 1 lb. of meat (chicken, beef, or lamb)
  • 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
  • 1-2 green chilies, sliced
  • 2 teaspoons of Sri Lankan curry powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon of cumin powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon of coriander powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon of fennel powder
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 2-3 cloves
  • 2-3 cardamom pods
  • 1 can of coconut milk
  • Salt, to taste
  • Water, as needed

Step 2: Prepare Your Meat

Once you have your ingredients ready, it’s time to prepare your meat. Cut your meat into small, bite-sized pieces and set it aside.

Step 3: Heat Your Pan

Heat a large pan over medium-high heat and add your vegetable oil. Once the oil is hot, add your onions and sauté them until they’re soft and translucent.

Step 4: Add Your Spices

Next, it’s time to add your spices. Add your garlic, ginger, and green chilies to the pan and stir them for a minute or two. Then, add your Sri Lankan curry powder, turmeric powder, cumin powder, coriander powder, and fennel powder to the pan. Stir everything together until the spices are well combined.

Step 5: Add Your Meat

Once your spices are well combined, it’s time to add your meat. Add your meat to the pan and stir it until it’s browned on all sides.

Step 6: Add Your Liquid

After your meat is browned, it’s time to add your liquid. Add your can of coconut milk to the pan, along with your cinnamon stick, cloves, and cardamom pods. Stir everything together and bring it to a boil.

Step 7: Reduce the Heat and Simmer

Once your curry comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30-45 minutes. Stir occasionally and add water as needed to keep the curry from drying out.

Step 8: Add Salt and Adjust Seasonings

After your curry has simmered for about 30-45 minutes, it’s time to add salt to taste. You can also adjust your seasonings at this point if necessary. If you prefer a spicier curry, you can add more green chilies or Sri Lankan curry powder.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!

Once your Sri Lankan curry is ready, it’s time to serve and enjoy! You can serve it over rice or with some naan bread. Garnish it with some fresh cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.

In conclusion, making Sri Lankan curry at home is easier than you might think. Enjoy!

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