Asking homestay hosts in Ella to cook traditional banana leaf rice and curry

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Ethan J.6690 rep2

We are staying in Ella and want to try the traditional lunch baked inside a banana leaf Lamprais. Do homestays make this if requested.

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6 Answers from travellers

Accepted Answer

True Lamprais is a Dutch Burgher dish which is very complex, but locals make "Buth Packet" (rice and curry wrapped and steamed in a fire-wilted banana leaf). Most homestay mothers will absolutely make this for you to take on a hike! You must ask them the night before so they can buy the leaves and prep the curries.

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Amali D.5790 rep1

How much should we offer to pay them for preparing it.

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Ethan J.6690 rep2

Around 600 to 1000 rupees per packet is a very fair price, depending on if it has chicken or is just vegetarian.

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Amali D.5790 rep1

It is the best hiking lunch ever. The banana leaf infuses a smoky, sweet flavor into the rice.

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Mia S.4060 rep2

Make sure they include the fried ash plantain curry. It is essential for a good leaf packet.

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Kamal P.6380 rep1

Do not throw the leaf away in the jungle when you are done! Pack it out so wild animals do not eat the spicy leftovers.

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Mia S.4060 rep2

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