A Sri Lankan Comfort Classic

Polos, or young jackfruit curry, is one of Sri Lanka’s most cherished traditional dishes. Made from tender, unripe jackfruit slowly simmered in spices and coconut milk, polos are celebrated for their meaty texture and deeply comforting flavor. A staple in Sinhala households, this curry is often prepared for family lunches, temple offerings, and special occasions.

What makes polos truly special is how a simple, plant-based ingredient transforms into a rich and satisfying dish. The young jackfruit absorbs spices beautifully, while coconut milk adds a creamy and warm texture. Mildly spiced yet full of depth, polos is a perfect example of Sri Lanka’s mastery of vegetable-based curries.

 

Sri Lankan Polos (Young Jackfruit Curry) Recipe

Ingredients

For the jackfruit

• 1 kg young jackfruit (cleaned and cut into pieces)
• ½ tsp turmeric powder
• Salt to taste

For the curry

• 3 tbsp coconut oil
• 1 large onion (sliced)
• 2 sprigs of curry leaves
• 1 small piece pandan leaf (optional)
• 1 tbsp ginger (crushed)
• 1 tbsp garlic (crushed)
• 1–1½ tbsp chilli powder (adjust to taste)
• 1 tbsp coriander powder
• 1 tsp roasted curry powder
• 1-piece Garcinia Cambogia soaked in the water
• 1½ cups thick coconut milk
• 1 cup thin coconut milk or water

 

Method

1. Prepare the jackfruit
   Rub jackfruit pieces with turmeric and salt. Set aside.
2. Start the curry base
   Heat the coconut oil in a pot. Add onions, curry leaves, and pandan leaf. Sauté until onions soften and turn light golden.
3. Add aromatics
   Add ginger and garlic and cook until fragrant.
4. Add spices
   Lower the heat and add chilli powder, coriander, cumin, , and roasted curry powder. Stir well.
5. Add jackfruit
   Add jackfruit pieces and mix well to coat with spices.
6. Simmer
   Add thin coconut milk or water and Garcinia Cambogia (if using). Cover and cook on low heat until jackfruit becomes tender (about 30–40 minutes).
7. Finish with coconut milk
   Add thick coconut milk and simmer uncovered for 5–10 minutes until the curry thickens. Adjust salt.

 

Serving Suggestions

Polos curry pairs beautifully with:

• Steamed white or red rice
• Dhal curry
• Coconut Roti
• Coconut sambol

 

Final Thoughts

Polos is more than just a curry—it’s a taste of home for many Sri Lankans. Rich, nourishing, and deeply satisfying, this young jackfruit curry proves that plant-based dishes can be just as comforting and flavorful as meat-based ones.

 

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