Bola

Sri Lankan Bola Recipe with Beef, Curry Powder, and Coconut Milk

Region / culture: Sri Lanka | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Bola, a traditional dish with roots in South Asian cuisine, is a delightful combination of spiced meatballs and rich, aromatic gravy. This recipe offers a step-by-step guide to creating Bola curry, a dish that promises to tantalize your taste buds with its complex flavors and textures. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a culinary novice, this recipe will guide you through the process of making this exquisite dish, ensuring a delicious and satisfying meal.

History

The recipe for Bola curry has evolved over centuries, with its origins deeply rooted in South Asian culinary traditions. Historically, this dish was prepared during special occasions and festivals, using a blend of spices that were considered luxurious at the time. Over the years, the recipe has traveled across continents, undergoing modifications and adaptations, yet it has retained its core essence. Today, Bola curry is enjoyed by people worldwide, cherished for its rich history and delectable taste.

Ingredients

Bola curry

450 g beef
0.25 tsp pepper
0.5 tsp salt
1 thick slice bread
0.5 lime, juice of
2 eggs
25 g onion
2 garlic cloves
2 slices ginger
0.25 tsp cinnamon
2 cloves
25 g curry powder
1 liter oil

Gravy

25 g onion
2 garlic cloves
2 slices fresh ginger
25 ml oil
curry leaf sprigs
0.5 lemon grass stem
0.25 tsp fenugreek
1000 ml coconut milk
1 tsp chile powder
0.5 tsp turmeric juice [1]
0.5 lime
0.5 tsp curry powder

How to prepare

Mince the beef and season it with pepper and salt.
Grate the bread and moisten it with lime juice.
Lightly beat 1 egg.
Chop the onion, garlic, and ginger, and add them to the beef along with cinnamon, cloves, bread, beaten egg, and curry powder.
Mix everything well together and form small balls the size of marbles.
Beat the other egg and dip the meatballs into it.
Heat the oil and deep fry the balls until they turn golden brown.
Drain the fried balls and set them aside.
To make the gravy, chop onion, garlic, and ginger.
Heat the oil and fry the onion, curry leaves, and lemon grass. Then, add the garlic, ginger, fenugreek, coconut milk, chili powder, and turmeric. Cook until the gravy thickens, stirring occasionally.
Add the meatballs and simmer for an additional 3 minutes.
Add lime juice and serve with a sprinkling of curry powder.

Variations

For a healthier version, use lean beef and shallow fry the meatballs instead of deep frying.
Vegetarian alternatives can be made by substituting beef with lentils or chickpeas.
Adjust the level of spiciness by increasing or decreasing the amount of chili powder and curry powder according to taste.

References

↑ How to Extract Turmeric Juice

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the best results when preparing Bola curry, consider the following tips and tricks:

- Use fresh spices for the curry powder to enhance the flavor profile of the dish.

- When forming the meatballs, wet your hands slightly to prevent the mixture from sticking.

- Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying the meatballs to achieve a golden-brown crust.

- Simmer the gravy on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Bola curry can be served with a side of steamed rice, naan bread, or roti to soak up the delicious gravy. A fresh cucumber salad or a tangy raita can complement the rich flavors of the curry, providing a refreshing contrast.

Cooking Techniques

Deep frying the meatballs gives them a crispy exterior and a juicy interior. Simmering the gravy allows the flavors to develop fully, creating a rich and aromatic sauce that complements the meatballs perfectly.

Ingredient Substitutions

Bread crumbs can be used instead of bread to bind the meatballs.

- Chicken or lamb can replace beef for a different flavor profile.

- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread or breadcrumbs.

Make Ahead Tips

The meatballs can be prepared and fried ahead of time, then refrigerated or frozen until needed. The gravy can also be made in advance and reheated, with the meatballs added just before serving to ensure they remain tender.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Bola curry in a deep, decorative bowl, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves and a sprinkle of lime zest. A side of lime wedges allows guests to adjust the acidity to their liking.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp white wine or a cold beer pairs wonderfully with the rich and spicy flavors of Bola curry. For a non-alcoholic option, a mango lassi or a spiced tea complements the dish beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Bola curry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water or coconut milk if the gravy has thickened too much.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Bola curry contains approximately 350-400 calories, making it a moderately calorie-dense meal. The majority of the calories come from the fats and proteins in the dish.

Carbohydrates

The primary source of carbohydrates in this recipe comes from the bread used in the meatballs and the small amount of sugar present in the coconut milk. Each serving of Bola curry contains approximately 15-20 grams of carbohydrates, making it a moderate source of carbs.

Fats

Bola curry is relatively high in fats due to the use of oil for frying and the coconut milk in the gravy. The majority of the fats are saturated, coming from the coconut milk. Each serving contains about 20-25 grams of fat, with a significant portion being saturated fats.

Proteins

The beef used in the meatballs is a rich source of high-quality protein. Each serving of Bola curry provides approximately 25-30 grams of protein, making it an excellent option for those looking to increase their protein intake.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin B12 from the beef, Vitamin C from the lime juice, and various minerals such as iron, zinc, and selenium. The spices also contribute small amounts of micronutrients that are beneficial for health.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include gluten (from the bread) and eggs. Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should consider suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, Bola curry is a flavorful dish that provides a good balance of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. It is rich in certain vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to a balanced diet. However, due to its fat content, it should be enjoyed in moderation.

Summary

Bola curry is a rich and flavorful dish that combines tender meatballs with a spicy, aromatic gravy. This recipe not only provides a delicious meal but also offers a glimpse into the rich culinary heritage of South Asia. With its detailed nutrition information, cooking tips, and serving suggestions, this recipe is designed to guide you through the process of creating a memorable dining experience. Enjoy the delightful flavors of Bola curry with family and friends, and explore the various ways to customize the dish to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for Bola. It was a hot summer day in the small village where I grew up, and I was just a young girl eager to learn the art of cooking from my grandmother. She was a master in the kitchen, creating delicious dishes with a touch of love and tradition that always left us wanting more.

One day, as I sat at the kitchen table watching her prepare a feast for the whole family, she pulled out a faded old recipe book from the cupboard. It was filled with handwritten notes and splatters of food from years of use. As she flipped through the pages, her eyes lit up when she came across the recipe for Bola, a traditional dish that had been passed down through generations in our family.

I watched in awe as she gathered the ingredients and began to explain the process to me. Bola was a hearty stew made with tender chunks of beef, potatoes, carrots, and a blend of savory spices that filled the kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma. It was a dish that brought everyone together around the table, sharing stories and laughter as we savored each delicious bite.

As my grandmother guided me through the steps of making Bola, she shared stories of how she had learned the recipe herself. She told me about her own grandmother, a wise woman who had taught her the art of cooking with patience and love. Together, they had spent hours in the kitchen, perfecting each dish and passing down family traditions that would live on for generations to come.

I listened intently as she shared her memories, feeling a deep sense of pride in our family's culinary heritage. I could see the passion and dedication that went into each recipe, and I knew that I wanted to carry on the tradition of cooking with love and care just like my grandmother had.

As we sat down to enjoy the steaming bowl of Bola together, I felt a sense of connection to my roots and a newfound appreciation for the art of cooking. The flavors danced on my tongue, reminding me of the love and history that had gone into each and every bite. It was a moment I would never forget, a lesson in tradition and family that would shape my own culinary journey for years to come.

And so, that day marked the beginning of my own culinary adventure, as I learned the art of making Bola from my grandmother. I treasured the recipe and the memories that came with it, knowing that each time I cooked this dish, I was honoring the legacy of those who came before me.

As the years passed, I continued to perfect my own version of Bola, adding my own twists and flavors to the traditional recipe. But no matter how many times I made it, the dish always held a special place in my heart, reminding me of the love and traditions that had been passed down through generations.

Now, as I sit in my own kitchen, preparing Bola for my own family, I can't help but smile as I remember that hot summer day when my grandmother first taught me the art of cooking. The memories flood back, filling me with a sense of pride and gratitude for the rich culinary heritage that has shaped me into the cook I am today.

And so, as I serve up a steaming bowl of Bola to my loved ones, I know that I am not just sharing a meal, but a piece of my family's history and a taste of the love that has been passed down through generations. And as we gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter, I am reminded once again of the power of food to bring us together, nourishing not just our bodies, but our souls as well.