Rice and meat wrapped in banana leaf and baked
Lamprais is a fragrant Sri Lankan dish combining basmati rice, spiced meat, and banana leaf wrapping, baked until aromatic. A favorite at celebrations.
Serves 4
Boil basmati rice until 70% cooked, drain
Fry onions, add curry powder and beef, cook 15 minutes
On banana leaf: rice, meat curry, then more rice
Fold leaf parcels and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes
Let cool 5 minutes before serving
Soak banana leaves in hot water to soften
Use good quality ghee for aroma
Use chicken instead of beef
Add potatoes to meat mixture
Keep wrapped in banana leaf; refrigerate for 3 days
Lamprais is Portuguese-influenced, brought during colonial times and adapted to Sri Lankan tastes.
Asian markets stock fresh or frozen banana leaves
Yes, bake in foil; flavor will be slightly different
Per serving · 4 servings total
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