8 Best Sri Lankan Cookbooks & Recipe Books

Looking for a way to spice up your culinary adventures?

Discover the tantalizing world of Sri Lankan cuisine with our selection of cookbooks.

Unleash your inner chef and explore the vibrant flavors, aromatic spices, and rich cultural heritage that make Sri Lankan dishes truly unique.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these cookbooks will guide you through the process of creating mouthwatering dishes that will transport your taste buds to the exotic island of Sri Lanka.

Get ready to embark on a culinary journey like no other!

Top 8 Sri Lankan Cookbooks

Here is the list of Best Sri Lankan Cookbooks-

  • Sri Lankan Cooking by Douglas Bullis and Wendy Hutton – Best Overall
  • The Complete Asian Cookbook: Sri Lanka & The Philippines by Charmaine Solomon – Editor’s Choice
  • Milk, Spice and Curry Leaves by Ruwanmali Samarakoon-Amunugama – Best for Authentic Recipes
  • Sri Lanka: The Cookbook by Prakash K Sivanathan and Niranjala M Ellawala – Best for Modern Interpretations
  • A Feast of Serendib by Mary Anne Mohanraj – Best for Fusion Recipes
  • Sri Lankan Flavours by Channa Dassanayaka – Best for Beginners
  • Hidden Kitchens of Sri Lanka by Bree Hutchins – Best for Cultural Exploration
  • Serendip My Sri Lankan Kitchen by Peter Kuruvita – Best for Traditional Dishes

Sri Lankan Cooking by Douglas Bullis and Wendy Hutton

It’s not just a cookbook; it’s a journey.

A journey that takes you through the bustling streets of Colombo, the serene beaches of Galle, and the lush green hills of Kandy.

Every page is a testament to the island’s vibrant food culture, with recipes that are both authentic and innovative.

The book’s vivid imagery transports you, making you almost taste the spices and feel the tropical breeze.

And while it’s packed with traditional recipes, there’s a touch of modern flair, making it perfect for today’s global palate.

A deserving recipient of the “Best Overall” award.

The Complete Asian Cookbook by Charmaine Solomon

This cookbook? It’s a sensory journey.

The recipes are authentic, capturing the essence of Sri Lankan and Filipino cuisines.

Charmaine’s expertise shines, blending traditional methods with creativity.

The book’s layout?

Easy to navigate.

And the photos? They’re a visual feast, making you almost taste the dishes.

It’s no wonder it’s earned the “Editor’s Choice” award.

If you’re keen to explore these cuisines, this is your guide.

And for those who’ve tasted these flavors?

It’s a delightful reminder.

Milk, Spice and Curry Leaves by Ruwanmali Samarakoon-Amunugama

Ruwanmali Samarakoon’s book is a heartfelt memoir, a tribute to Sri Lankan Canadian food, and a testament to the power of culinary traditions.

The book beautifully captures the essence of Sri Lanka’s hill country cuisine, with family recipes passed down through generations.

From the creamy suthu ala curry to the vibrant fancy yellow rice, each dish tells a story.

The author’s journey, from seeking Sri Lankan cookbooks in her youth to penning her own, resonates with authenticity and passion.

This cookbook truly deserves the title of “Best for Authentic Recipes”.

It’s a delightful blend of culture, history, and gastronomy.

Sri Lanka: The Cookbook by Prakash K Sivanathan and Niranjala M Ellawala

It’s a treasure trove of authentic Sri Lankan recipes, capturing the essence of the island’s rich food culture.

The book beautifully marries traditional methods with modern interpretations.

The vibrant photographs transport you straight to the heart of Sri Lanka, making you almost taste the spices and feel the island’s warmth.

It’s educational, offering insights into the history and techniques behind each dish.

A must-have for those passionate about exploring diverse food cultures.

And… it’s my pick for “Best for Modern Interpretations”.

A Feast of Serendib by Mary Anne Mohanraj

The book is a delightful blend of eclectic and exotic recipes, yet they’re surprisingly simple.

The author doesn’t just stop at recipes; she educates readers on the spices essential to the dishes.

And guess what?

There’s even a recipe for homemade curry.

For those who adore curry (like me), this cookbook is a treasure.

It’s not just about the main dishes; the appetizers, snacks, and even the drinks section are a revelation.

The book is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Sri Lanka, and it’s a must-have for every food enthusiast out there.

Sri Lankan Flavours by Channa Dassanayaka

This book isn’t just a cookbook; it’s a journey.

A journey through the bustling streets of Colombo, the aromatic hill country, and the memories of Channa’s childhood.

Imagine a table laden with dishes like Cauliflower, Cashew and Green Pea Curry, or the tang of Tomato and Lime Pickles.

This isn’t just about food; it’s about tradition, culture, and the heart of Sri Lanka.

If you’re looking to experience the authentic taste of this exotic island, this book is your ticket.

And… if you’re keen to get your hands on it, here’s where you can find it.

Hidden Kitchens of Sri Lanka by Bree Hutchins

This cookbook captures the essence of Sri Lankan cuisine, weaving tales of tradition, passion, and flavor.

Bree’s exploration is a testament to the island’s diverse food culture, showcasing recipes that resonate with authenticity.

The dishes? A symphony of spices, textures, and aromas.

As an Expert Food Critic, I’m enamored by the book’s dedication to preserving culinary heritage.

Awarded “Best for Cultural Exploration,” it’s a must-have for those eager to embark on a gastronomic adventure.

Serendip My Sri Lankan Kitchen by Peter Kuruvita

The book is a delightful blend of traditional Sri Lankan recipes, heartwarming tales, and evocative imagery.

It’s not just a cookbook; it’s a journey through Sri Lanka’s vibrant food culture, interwoven with Kuruvita’s cherished memories.

From the importance of spices to the art of cooking rice, every page is a testament to the country’s rich culinary traditions.

The recipes? Authentic and mouth-watering.

And the best part? It’s not just about the food.

It’s about the stories, the culture, and the people that make Sri Lankan cuisine so special.

If you’re looking to add a touch of Sri Lankan flair to your culinary repertoire, this book is a must-have.

Final Say So!

Dive into the rich tapestry of Sri Lankan cuisine with these handpicked cookbooks.

From the bustling streets of Colombo to the serene beaches of Galle, each book offers a unique culinary journey.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious foodie, these treasures will transport you straight to the heart of Sri Lanka.

So, grab your apron, ignite your passion, and let the island’s flavors dance on your palate!

Renee Searcy

Hi! I’m Renee. From a young age, I’ve been enchanted by the flavors, aromas, and the art of cooking. My journey has taken me from my family’s kitchen to working with some of the most talented chefs and culinary experts in Atlanta, GA, and beyond.

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