Although very near to my native state, the country of Srilanka is as new to me as a distant New Zealand. But Siri has bought it much closer with her theme Srilankan for A W E D. Having never explored the cuisine myself, this was indeed a great oppurtunity. I waded through recipes online and finally decided to start out with something very basic and very traditional. Although I tried to keep to the authentic method, I had to make few changes to suit my taste buds. I have a sensitive palate and required to play around the ingredients and process a bit. I am talking about Srilankan Vegetarian Chilli Sambal – Lunu Miris.

Traditionally the small onions are processed raw along with chilli powder and lemon juice. It was too strong for me and this I did a quick stir fry along with dried red chillies ( Red chilli powder is non-existent in my kitchen!). It was perfect for me and the hotness of the sambal went very well with the plain Kiribath (traditional srilankan coconut milk rice)

In a pan/electric rice cooked, add rice and water and cook until most of the water has been absorbed.

Add the coconut milk and cook for few minutes more until the rice becomes creamy.

Meanwhile, in a skillet saute the onions and red chillies with little salt for few seconds.

Grind it up into a coarse paste along with lemon juice

I saute it for the purpose of avoiding the strong onion taste. Traditionally its not done in this manner – at least the online resources don’t.

Cool the rice well and press it down to level it in a dish.

Cut it into diamond shapes and serve along with Lunu Miris.

Simple wasnt it? Sometimes the most simplest of dishes can

be so delightful to the senses! This one sure was to me. Special thanks to Siri for introducing this cuisine to me.

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