How to Experience Local Food Culture in Down South Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka is surely a paradise island that every traveller should explore at least once (if you visit this spectacular destination, you will also revisit it, and that's another story). The Down South region plays an important role in this beautiful country, not merely because of the beautiful sceneries and rich cultural heritage. 

The food culture in Down South, Sri Lanka, is equally beautiful. Read on to learn more. 

-Down South, Sri Lanka 

Simply put, this is the southern part of Sri Lanka. So, needless to say, it's a coastal region with some beautiful beaches. Galle, Matara, Mirissa, Hambantota and Tangalle are some of the most famous cities in the Down South area. 

With great properties like Anantara Kalutara Resort, Down South in Sri Lanka has become a hospitality hub. All sorts of travellers (backpackers, honeymooners, solo travellers, etc.) travel Down South throughout the year. From Colombo (the commercial capital) to Galle (one main city in Down South), it is only a 1.5-hour drive through the Southern Express Way. Galle Fort, Madu Ganga, and Yala National Park are some of the main highlights of this part of the island. 

-The Food Culture 

Sri Lanka is a country with an awesome food culture. When it comes to the Down South area, the food culture is much more unique and special. Since it's a coastal region, fish are in abundance, so needless to say, they do seafood dishes in different ways using diverse ingredients. 

Is this only applicable to fish and other seafood dishes? If you think so, you should try the vegetable curries. People in this area have some magic cooking power that makes whatever they cook much more delicious. 

-Jaadi 

Did you know that salting is one great method of preserving fish? In Sri Lanka (especially Down South), salted fish is considered a dish you can enjoy with rice. It's not just salted fish, but many other spices are also added to make Jaadi, which is where the amazing flavour comes from. 

-Ambul Thiyal 

Yes, this is another fish dish- but it's very different to Jaadi. Ambul Thiyal which could be called the sour fish curry is a popular Sri Lankan traditional food item that is even being served at top-luxury hotels in Colombo. You can even finish one whole pot of rice if you pair it up with a good pol sambol and an ambul thiyal dish. 

-Raw Papaya Curry 

This is for those who thought the Down South was only great for those who love fish and other seafood. Just like the name suggests, raw papaya curry is made from papaya, and coconut milk is added to it to increase the overall taste. 

Locals say that it's a really good dish to combat your body heat. Since it's flavourful, you can try it with a bowl of red rice. 

-Fried Coconut Mixed Fish 

It's a dish made up of several ingredients. Locals first fry grated coconuts in the pan and then add several ingredients including dried chilli, curry leaves and goraka. Then this whole combination is mixed with a fish curry, and the outcome is, of course, a heavenly-tasting dish. This dish is equally great when eaten with rice and bread. 

-Things to know

The locals usually enjoy eating meals with the hand, it is also believed by most that food tastes evermore great when you mix and eat with your hands. Yes, you may use the spoon and fork if you wish to, but eating by hand is always recommended. The spiciness tends to be higher in many of these dishes. So, if you are not someone who is a fan of spicy food, make sure you keep the locals informed beforehand.