Sri Lanka Savoury Rice

Sri Lanka Savoury Rice Recipe - Authentic Taste of Sri Lanka

Region / culture: Sri Lanka | Servings: 4

Introduction

Sri Lanka Savoury Rice is a flavorful and aromatic dish that combines basmati rice with a variety of vegetables and spices. This dish is a popular choice for lunch or dinner in Sri Lanka and is often served with a side of curry or chutney.

History

Sri Lanka Savoury Rice has been a staple in Sri Lankan cuisine for generations. The dish is believed to have originated in the rural villages of Sri Lanka, where ingredients such as rice, vegetables, and spices were readily available. Over time, the recipe has evolved to include a variety of ingredients and flavors, making it a versatile and delicious dish.

Ingredients

250 g of basmati rice
1 onion
4 rashers of bacon
1 green bell pepper
3 tomatoes
50 ml of oil
500 ml of boiling water
0.5 tsp of salt
0.5 tsp of ground cinnamon
125 g of cooked green peas

How to prepare

Wash and drain the rice. Chop the onion, bacon, and green pepper. Skin and chop the tomatoes. Heat the oil in a saucepan and fry the onion and bacon for a couple of minutes until soft. Add the rice and continue stirring for 3 minutes. Add the green pepper and tomatoes and stir well. Pour in the boiling water, salt, and cinnamon, and bring it back to a boil. Cover the pan tightly with a lid, reduce the heat slightly, and cook for 15–20 minutes until the rice is soft and the liquid has been absorbed.
Fluff the rice with a fork and mix in the cooked peas.

Variations

Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a protein boost.
Use different vegetables such as carrots, beans, or broccoli for added flavor and nutrition.
Experiment with different spices such as turmeric, cumin, or coriander for a unique twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to wash and drain the rice before cooking to remove excess starch.

- Stir the rice frequently while cooking to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

- Adjust the amount of salt and spices to suit your taste preferences.

- For a vegetarian version, you can omit the bacon and add more vegetables such as carrots, beans, or cauliflower.

Serving Suggestions

Sri Lanka Savoury Rice can be served as a main dish on its own or paired with a side of curry, chutney, or raita.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making perfect Sri Lanka Savoury Rice is to cook the rice until it is soft and fluffy, and all the liquid has been absorbed. Make sure to cover the pan tightly with a lid to trap the steam and cook the rice evenly.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have basmati rice, you can use any long-grain rice such as jasmine or white rice. You can also substitute the bacon with ham, sausage, or tofu for a vegetarian version.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Sri Lanka Savoury Rice ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Sri Lanka Savoury Rice with fresh herbs such as cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Serve it in a decorative bowl or plate for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Sri Lanka Savoury Rice pairs well with a variety of dishes such as chicken curry, lamb curry, or vegetable curry. You can also serve it with a side of pickles, chutney, or yogurt for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Sri Lanka Savoury Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Sri Lanka Savoury Rice contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Sri Lanka Savoury Rice contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Sri Lanka Savoury Rice contains approximately 10 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Sri Lanka Savoury Rice contains approximately 8 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Sri Lanka Savoury Rice is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains bacon, which may be a potential allergen for some individuals.

Summary

Sri Lanka Savoury Rice is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Summary

Sri Lanka Savoury Rice is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make and full of flavor. With a mix of vegetables, spices, and rice, this dish is a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed any time of the day.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy memory that I will always hold dear. It was many years ago, during a trip to Sri Lanka, that I first tasted the delicious and aromatic Sri Lanka Savoury Rice. I remember the vibrant colors of the bustling markets, the enticing smells wafting through the air, and the warm smiles of the people we met along the way.

I had always been a lover of cooking, and I was eager to learn new recipes and techniques wherever I went. So, when I tasted this savory rice dish for the first time, I knew I had to find out how to make it myself. I asked the kind woman who had prepared it for me if she would share her recipe, and to my delight, she agreed.

She took me to her humble kitchen, where she showed me how to prepare the dish from scratch. The key ingredients were simple - fragrant basmati rice, fresh vegetables, aromatic spices, and a generous helping of coconut milk. But it was the way she combined these ingredients, the precise measurements and the careful timing, that made all the difference.

As I watched her work her culinary magic, I took careful notes and asked questions. She explained the importance of toasting the spices before adding them to the rice, to bring out their full flavor. She showed me how to cook the rice just right, so that each grain was perfectly fluffy and fragrant. And she shared her secret ingredient - a pinch of ground cinnamon - that added a subtle sweetness to the savory dish.

After several hours of cooking and learning, the dish was finally ready. As I took my first bite, I was transported back to the bustling streets of Sri Lanka, surrounded by the sights and sounds of a vibrant culture. The flavors were bold and complex, with a perfect balance of spice and sweetness. It was a dish that warmed my heart and satisfied my soul.

Since that day, I have made Sri Lanka Savoury Rice countless times, sharing it with friends and family who have all fallen in love with its exotic flavors. Each time I make it, I think back to that sunny day in Sri Lanka, and the kind woman who shared her recipe with me. I am grateful for the memories and the joy that this dish brings me, and I will always cherish the day I discovered this delicious recipe.