Lamprais

Sri Lanka has been influenced by a diversity of cultures. One of the most evident is the Dutch Burgher community. Lamprais, a combination of two Dutch words meaning "bun" and "rice," is a combination of meat, rice, and sambol chutney, wrapped in a banana leaf package and steamed. The rice is cooked with braised meat - usually a mixture of different meats such as beef, pork, or lamb - seasoned with cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon.

A tablespoon of rice is placed in the center of a banana leaf, along with mixed meat curry, two dishes of Frikkadel (Dutch-style beef balls), blachan (shrimp paste), and starch or vegetables, usually ash or quinoa.

The package is folded into a parcel and steamed. Since lamprais is a Burgher's contribution to Sri Lankan cuisine, the meat is often prepared with sweet spices such as cloves and cinnamon, recreating the flavors favored by the Dutch Burgher community.

Original recipes called for beef, pork, and lamb, but chicken and eggs are often included in a modern light pack.