February 27 | Sri Lanka

I typically like to plan Around the World in Quarantine a few weeks in advance, so I’m able to find what I’m looking for at the thrift stores I visit. The week before this edition, I decided it was time for the people’s choice Around the World in Quarantine. I polled our friends on social media and used a spin wheel to randomly select the country. I was pleasantly surprised to see the dial land on Sri Lanka. It’s a country I didn’t know much about which was exciting to me because I enjoy learning about countries and their culture through Around the World in Quarantine. And here’s what I came up with in eight days for Around the World in Quarantine: Sri Lanka.

Color Scheme: Red and Gold

Tablescape

• Red and gold table cloth | I happened to buy this the week before Sri Lanka was chosen. When I saw this table cloth on sale at North Raleigh Thrift Shoppe for $1.50, I had to have it. I’m a sucker for unique items. Though I found it in the tablecloth section, I actually believe it may be a shawl. Nonetheless, the colors are striking.
• Gold chargers | I’ve had these chargers for a while. There isn’t anything special about them, but I love their simplicity and how they match everything.
• Gold napkins | I have no idea where I purchased these from, but I like these napkins because of the slight sparkle they have. A nice addition to the tablescape.
• Clear teacups | I love the simplicity of clear teacups! I found these at Retails Thift store for $.50 each.
• Clear teapot | When I was searching for a teapot for England, I couldn’t find one at ANY thrift store. Since then, I’ve found them at EVERY thrift store I’ve been to. When I came across this one today at North Raleigh Thrift Shoppe for $2, I couldn’t pass it up. It’s significantly smaller than my other teapot and perfect for today.

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Menu

First Course: Fish Cutlets

These were a hit! The fish cutlet consisted of potatoes, tuna, onions, leeks and spices dipped in eggs and covered in breadcrumbs. It’s typically fried, but I chose to use my airfryer. I’m sure they’re crispier when fried, but they were still delicious.

Second Course: Pineapple Cucumber Salad

I could eat this pineapple cucumber salad every day! Though it was a bit spicy, the sweetness of the pineapple was the star of the show. The cucumbers, tomatoes and onions were the perfect balance. Simply delicious!

Third Course: Polos Curry with Batu Moju, Pol Sambol, Green Bean Curry, Steamed Rice and Pol Roti

I was nearly full when I got to this course, so I feel like I haven’t given everything a fair chance yet. Of what I did eat, my favorite was the pol roti and green bean curry. Donnell’s favorite was the batu moju. The polos (young jackfruit) curry was flavorful, but needed a bit more salt. The pol sambol was good as well, but I struggled to fit it into the rotation since it felt more like a relish than a side. I think we both agree that we look forward to finished those leftovers.

Fourth Course: Kiri Aluwa (Milk Toffee)

After all of this food, I almost didn’t make it to dessert. Almost. I always save room for dessert. After taste testing this milk coffee while cooking, I knew I had to make room for a little bit. This toffee isn’t like any I’ve ever had before. The addition of cashews and cardamom really gives a delicious yet unique flavor. I would definitely make this again.

Beverages: Ceylon Tea

You can’t have a Sri Lankan meal without Ceylon Tea! I made this cup with a little milk and sugar. In honor of National Kahlua Day, I also slipped a little Kahlua in our tea to spice it up!

Final Reflection:

Overall, Sri Lanka was a good choice. The food has an Indian influence while still maintaining its own individuality. If you like flavor and spice, I would recommend it!