Authentic Sri Lankan Lunumiris Recipe: A Spicy Sambol Delight

Ingredients

  • 1 cup fresh red chillies, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons Maldive fish, finely chopped
  • 1 small red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 lime, zest and juice
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

Steps and instructions

  1. Start by chopping the red chillies, Maldive fish and red onion into fine pieces.
  2. Combine the chopped ingredients in a small mixing bowl.
  3. Add the zest and juice of one lime to the mixing bowl.
  4. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper.
  5. Mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
  6. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.

Tools for making

  • Mixing Bowl - A small bowl for combining the ingredients.
  • Knife - A sharp knife for chopping the red chillies, Maldive fish, and red onion.
  • Citrus Zester - A tool for removing the zest from the lime.
  • Citrus Juicer - A device for extracting the juice from the lime.
  • Measuring Spoons - Utensils for accurately measuring the salt and black pepper.

Recipe variations

  • Use green chillies instead of red chillies for a milder flavor.
  • Substitute Maldive fish with dried shrimp or anchovies.
  • Add finely chopped garlic or ginger for an extra kick.
  • Replace red onion with shallots or spring onions for a different flavor profile.
  • Add a pinch of sugar to balance the heat and acidity.
  • Experiment with different citrus fruits like lemon or orange for a unique twist.
  • Add fresh herbs such as cilantro or mint for added freshness.
  • For a vegetarian version, omit the Maldive fish and add roasted peanuts or cashews for crunch.

Recipe overview

Welcome to our Lunumiris recipe! Lunumiris is a traditional Sri Lankan sambol dish that is spicy, tangy, and loaded with robust flavors. It's made with fresh red chillies, Maldive fish, red onion, lime, salt, and black pepper. This dish is typically served as a condiment for a variety of meals, adding a burst of heat and flavor that enhances the overall eating experience. Despite its bold taste, it is relatively simple and quick to prepare. Within a few minutes, you can have a delicious sambol ready to serve. So why wait? Let's dive into the recipe and start cooking!

Common questions

  1. Can I adjust the spiciness of the Lunumiris?
    Yes, you can adjust the spiciness of the Lunumiris by adding more or less red chillies according to your preference.
  2. Can I substitute the Maldive fish with something else?
    If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can omit the Maldive fish altogether or replace it with dried shrimp for a similar flavor.
  3. How long does the Lunumiris stay fresh?
    When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the Lunumiris can stay fresh for up to one week.
  4. What can I serve Lunumiris with?
    Lunumiris is a versatile condiment that can be served with various dishes such as rice, bread, roti, hoppers, or even as a dipping sauce for snacks.
  5. Can I make Lunumiris in advance?
    Yes, you can prepare Lunumiris in advance and store it in the refrigerator until needed. Just make sure to give it a stir before serving.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Lunumiris is a staple condiment in Sri Lankan cuisine. Its fiery flavor and tangy punch have made it a beloved companion to many traditional meals in Sri Lanka. The secret to its unique taste is the Maldive fish, which is a dried and cured tuna unique to the Maldivian islands. In fact, the importance of Maldive fish in Sri Lankan food culture can't be overstated. Despite being borrowed from their island neighbors, Sri Lankans have incorporated Maldive fish into their cuisine in such a way that many dishes, like Lunumiris, would be unimaginable without it.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.