Many of Sri Lanka’s most famous dishes are actually Jaffna foods. To try the most authentic versions it’s worth taking a trip to the north of the country to try them.
If you’re talking to a Sri Lankan who is really honest, they’ll share that one of the most delicious cities in Sri Lanka is Jaffna.
There are many cooks from Jaffna in Colombo and other parts of the island country. And yet people will still drive 10+ hours to spend a weekend in Jaffna with the sole purpose of eating its delicious seafood dishes, mutton and of course the famous Jaffna crab curry.
If you like South Indian food, northern Sri Lanka is the place to eat. The food is not the same but you will find similarities in the best ways possible.
Traveling to Jaffna to Eat
I planned to spend four days in Jaffna and had a long list of things I wanted to eat and drink. Unfortunately I didn’t get to experience all of it.
In a delightful twist of fate we arrived in Jaffna toward the end of Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil, the longest Hindu festival in Sri Lanka. Most restaurants were closed so I was able to try some things.
But sadly I did not eat the Jaffna crab curry and I had to put my dream of a Jaffna food feast aside but experiencing the longest Hindu festival was an amazing opportunity.
For those planning to travel to Jaffna to eat I wanted to share my research. It means all my hard work wasn’t a waste and I can use it the next time I visit Jaffna.
I’ve labelled each of the foods in Jaffna by their Tamil name (English Translation)| Tamil script. That said, most people I spoke to in restaurants spoke some English or were happy to use Google translate on my phone.
Traditional Jaffna Foods
Nandu Kari (Jaffna Crab Curry) | நண்டு கறி
Nandu Kari is a spicy crab curry made with fresh local crab, coconut milk and a blend of curry powder, onions, and tomatoes.
This dish has a rich, savory flavor with a hint of sweetness from the coconut milk. It’s often eaten with rice or string hoppers.
Similar crab curries can be found in other coastal regions, but the Jaffna version is distinct due to its unique spice mix.
Best Place to Eat Nandu Kari in Jaffna: Green Grass Hotel & Restaurant, No.33 Aseervatham Lane, 40000, Sri Lanka
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Aattukari Soru (Mutton Rice) | ஆட்டுக்கறி சோறு
Aattukari soru features tender mutton cooked in a flavorful gravy served over rice. The mutton is marinated with spices and slow-cooked until juicy and soft.
This dish is hearty and aromatic, perfect for meat lovers. It is often accompanied by side dishes like sambol or pickles.
This Jaffna dish reflects the Muslim influence in Jaffna and Northern Sri Lanka. The dish combines rice and mutton, spiced with a blend of aromatic flavors that show a Middle Eastern influence, likely brought by Arab traders who historically connected with the region.
The use of soru (rice) cooked with spiced meat is typical of biryani-style dishes, which became popular across Muslim communities in South Asia, including in Sri Lanka.
However, aattukari soru in Jaffna tends to have its own twist with local spices, so while it shares roots with Muslim biryani, it’s distinct to Jaffna and Northern Sri Lanka.
Best Place to Eat Aattukari Soru in Jaffna: Muthumari Amman Restaurant, 41, Nallur Rd, Jaffna, Sri Lanka
Pittu | பிட்டு
Pittu is a steamed dish made from rice flour and coconut, shaped into cylindrical molds and often served in paper. The mixture is layered and steamed until fluffy, resulting in a light and slightly sweet treat.
I didn’t have it in Jaffna but was able to try it in a Trincomalee hotel. It is used as a side starch so served with curry or sugar, making it versatile for both savory and sweet meals. I had mine for breakfast with dal and it was a nice treat,
Best Place to Eat Pittu in Jaffna: Green Grass Hotel & Restaurant, No.33 Aseervatham Lane, 40000, Sri Lanka
Meen Kulambu (Fish Curry) | மீன் குழம்பு
A spiced fish curry that is a staple in Jaffna cuisine, typically made with fresh local fish, tamarind and a blend of spices.
This dish showcases the region’s emphasis on seafood and rich flavors, often served with rice.
Best Place to Eat Meen Kulambu in Jaffna: Nallur Kovil Canteen, Nallur Kovil, Jaffna, Sri Lanka
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Vathal Kuzhambu | வத்தல் குழம்பு
Vathal kuzhambu is a tangy curry made with dried vegetables and tamarind. The dried ingredients are cooked in a spiced gravy. This curry is usually served with rice and is known for its preservation qualities.
A twist on this dish replaces the dried vegetables with snakehead fish and is called vaalai meen kulambu (வாளை மீன் குழம்பு.)
Best Place to Eat Vathal Kuzhambu in Jaffna: Kumaraswamy Restaurant, No. 14, Jaffna – Kandy Rd, Jaffna, Sri Lanka
Murungai Keerai Kootu (Drumstick Greens Stew) | முருங்கை கீரை கூட்டு
Murungai keerai kootu is a nutritious stew made with drumstick leaves, also known as moringa leaves and lentils.
The leaves are cooked with spices and often combined with coconut for added richness. This dish has a mild flavor and is packed with vitamins.
It is commonly served with rice and is known for its health benefits. Similar preparations exist in other South Asian cuisines, but the Jaffna style highlights local greens.
Best Place to Eat Murungai Keerai Kootu in Jaffna: Thiruvaiyaru Restaurant, No. 62, Nallur Main Rd, Jaffna, Sri Lanka
Keerai Katti | கீரை கட்டி
Keerai katti is a simple dish made from sautéed greens mixed with rice and spices. The greens are typically seasoned with mustard seeds and chilies for added flavor.
This dish is light and nutritious, making it a staple in many households. It is often enjoyed with yogurt or curry. Variations of this dish exist in other regions, but Jaffna’s version is distinct with its local greens.
Best Place to Eat Keerai Katti in Jaffna: Jaffna Railway Station Canteen, Jaffna Railway Station, Jaffna, Sri Lanka
Appam | அப்பம்
Appam is a type of fermented rice pancake with a soft center and crispy edges. The batter is made from rice flour and coconut milk, then fermented overnight.
Appam is the Tamil name for what are commonly known as hoppers.
In Jaffna the batter is typically made from a combination of rice flour and coconut milk, which gives it a distinct flavor and texture. The fermentation process enhances its taste, resulting in a slightly tangy flavor profile.
This Jaffna food is often served with a variety of curries, including vegetable and meat curries, making it a versatile dish.
The combination of the soft center and crispy edges allows it to soak up the flavors of the accompanying dishes, creating a delightful culinary experience.
Best Place to Eat Appam in Jaffna: Malayan Cafe, C Ponnampalam Rd, Jaffna, Sri Lanka
Paruppu Adai | பருப்பு அடை
Paruppu adai is a savory lentil pancake made from a mixture of lentils, spices and typically served with chutney or curry.
The batter is ground and seasoned before being pan-fried until crispy. This dish is protein-rich and has a delightful crunch.
The name and dish are recognized in Jaffna cooking, reflecting the influence of both local and broader South Indian culinary practices where it is known as a type of dosa.
Best Place to Eat Paruppu Adai in Jaffna: Hela Bojun Hala, No. 11, Hospital Rd, Jaffna, Sri Lanka
Moddakam | மோடுக்கம்
Moddakam is a traditional sweet dumpling made from rice flour and filled with coconut and jaggery.
It is particularly associated with festivals and special occasions. It symbolizes abundance and prosperity.
Many say the soft texture and sweet filling brings them back to good times with family as they often often prepare it together, and passing down culinary traditions.
Best Place to Eat Moddakam in Jaffna: Kachchan Kadai 27, Main St, Jaffna, Sri Lanka
Vazhaipoo Vadai (வாழைப்பூ வடை)
One of the most popular Jaffna foods as a savory snack made with finely chopped banana flower, lentil flour, and an array of spices.
The banana flower is mixed with ingredients like onion, green chilies, and curry leaves to form a thick batter.
The vadai is often enjoyed as a tea-time snack or appetizer, celebrated for its unique flavor and texture. It showcases the versatility of banana flower in Jaffna cuisine, reflecting the region’s emphasis on using local ingredients.
Best Place to Eat Vazhaipoo Vadai in Jaffna: Ammachchi Traditional Center, M2WJ+JVG, Palali Rd, Jaffna
Sodhi (சோதி)
Sodhi has a creamy, aromatic coconut milk base like many Jaffna foods. Often prepared with vegetables or meat, it is a mild curry that is perfect for travelers who find local food too spicy.
The dish usually includes spices such as turmeric, cumin, and coriander, blended with a generous amount of coconut milk to create a rich, flavorful sauce.
It is typically served with rice or string hoppers, sodhi is a comforting meal enjoyed during special occasions and everyday dining .
Best Place to Eat Sodhi in Jaffna: Hotel Vasantham, 1, 5th Cross St, Jaffna, Sri Lanka
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Aattukari Varai | ஆட்டுக்கறி வறை
Aattukari varai is a dry mutton dish stir-fry showcases the region’s preference for strong, aromatic dishes.
Tender mutton is marinated in a blend of spices, including coriander, chili powder, and curry leaves, then sautéed.
Often served as a side dish, aattukari varai is a favorite during family gatherings and celebrations, reflecting Jaffna’s culinary heritage.
Although similar dry meat dishes can be found in South Asian cuisines, the Jaffna version is particularly aromatic.
Best Place to Eat Aattukari Varai in Jaffna: Cosy Restaurant, 272 Stanley Rd, Jaffna 40000 Sri Lanka
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