Food In Beira Lake

Food History of Beira Lake, Colombo, Sri Lanka

The area surrounding Beira Lake in Colombo has a rich culinary history shaped by diverse cultures and influences. Historically, Colombo has been a melting pot due to its strategic position along major trading routes. As a result, the food culture around Beira Lake has been influenced by the Dutch, Portuguese, Malays, Indians, Arabs, and various other communities that traded with or colonized Sri Lanka.

Beira Lake itself does not have its unique cuisine; however, its proximity to the business and administrative heart of Colombo means the area is surrounded by a myriad of eateries catering to a variety of tastes and preferences. Here, visitors can find everything from traditional Sri Lankan dishes to international cuisine.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Beira Lake, Colombo

1. Hoppers (Appa) - Non-Veg/Veg: Made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg in the center, as well as seen in plain form which is vegetarian.
2. Kottu Roti - Non-Veg/Veg: A scrumptious stir-fry featuring chopped flatbread mixed with vegetables, eggs or cheese. Meat options are available but veggie versions are equally popular.
3. String Hoppers (Idiyappam) - Veg: Steamed rice noodles served with curry or coconut sambol, a vegetarian favorite.
4. Pol Sambol (Coconut Relish) - Veg: A spicy coconut garnish usually eaten with bread, hoppers or rice.
5. Kiribath (Milk Rice) - Veg: Rice cooked in coconut milk, often eaten during special occasions, it's a simple yet staple dish in Sri Lankan homes.
6. Vegetable Roti - Veg: A flaky pastry filled with spicy vegetables, a perfect snack to enjoy on the go.
7. Dhal Curry (Lentil Curry) - Veg: A staple in Sri Lankan meals, dhal curry is a spiced lentil dish that pairs well with rice or bread.
8. Fish Ambul Thiyal (Sour Fish Curry) - Non-Veg: A southern Sri Lankan dish made with firm fish, flavored with dried goraka, a local fruit that gives the curry a distinctive sour taste.
9. Watalappam (Coconut Custard Pudding) - Veg: A dessert made from coconut milk, eggs, and jaggery, spiced with cardamom, cloves, and nutmeg.
10. Fruit Juices - Veg: A variety of fresh tropical fruit juices that are widely available due to Sri Lanka's biodiversity, including king coconut water, mango, papaya, and wood apple.