OneCeylon

Authentic Kandyan cooking classes at local homestays

Seen by 498 travellers
Jump to the accepted answer
S
Sophie T.•14090 rep•2

I want to learn how to make authentic Sri Lankan dhal and jackfruit curry. Do homestay families in Kandy usually offer cooking classes to guests.

20

8 Answers from travellers

✓Accepted answer

Outdated Information: This answer is over 6 months old. Prices, schedules, or availability may have changed. Please verify current information before making travel plans.

Yes, absolutely! It is one of the best experiences you can have. Most Kandyan homestay mothers are incredibly proud of their recipes. If you ask a day in advance, they will often take you to the local market in the morning to buy fresh coconut and spices, and then let you help scrape the coconut and cook the dinner in the evening over a wood fire. Just offer to pay for the ingredients.

50
D
Dr. Nimal.•6620 rep•1

Ask them to show you how they roast the raw curry powder. That is the secret to Kandyan food.

49
B
Bhante S.•17240 rep•1

Jackfruit (Polos) takes hours to boil down to get that meaty texture. It is a labor of love.

48
B
Bhante S.•17240 rep•1

Make sure they teach you how to make fresh Pol Sambol. It is so easy but tastes amazing.

40
E
Emma L.•7290 rep•2

Cooking is a universal language! Even if their English is basic, they will show you exactly how much of each spice to add.

37
D
Dr. Nimal.•6620 rep•1

I cannot wait to try this. I will ask my host tonight.

33
S
Sophie T.•14090 rep•2

Do they speak enough English to explain the recipes.

27
S
Sophie T.•14090 rep•2

The wood smoke will make your clothes smell like a campfire for days, just a warning!

2
E
Emma L.•7290 rep•2

Scam Watch: kandy

Gem Museum Commission ScamVerified

TukTuk or tour drivers take you to "gem museums" or "government-certified" gem shops. They receive huge commissions (up to 40%) on anything you buy. Prices are inflated 3-10x the actual value.

👍 38•by virajperera
Unofficial Temple Guide ScamVerified

Men approach tourists near Temple of the Tooth offering to be guides. After the tour, they demand large "donations" or guide fees (5000-10000 LKR).

👍 34•by virajperera
Report a scam →

You must be logged in to post an answer.

Log in to answer
Browse all questions