About Breadfruit Curry (Del Maluwa)
Breadfruit Curry (Del Maluwa) is a traditional Sri Lankan dish made with tender breadfruit cooked in a creamy, aromatic coconut milk gravy. The breadfruit absorbs the flavors of curry powder, turmeric, chili, curry leaves, and other spices, creating a deliciously comforting dish. It is commonly served with steamed rice and other Sri Lankan curries and is an excellent vegetarian addition to a traditional rice-and-curry meal.
Ingredients for Breadfruit Curry (Del Maluwa)
For the Breadfruit
- 1 medium-sized breadfruit
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2–3 green chilies, sliced
- 1 sprig curry leaves
- ½ teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon roasted curry powder
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon mustard seeds
- ½ teaspoon fenugreek seeds
- Salt to taste
- 1 cup thin coconut milk
- ½ cup thick coconut milk
- 1–2 tablespoons cooking oil
Optional Ingredients
- 1 small piece of pandan leaf (rampe)
- 2–3 cloves garlic, sliced
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 small cinnamon stick
Step-by-Step to Cook Breadfruit Curry (Del Maluwa)
Step 1: Prepare the Breadfruit
Peel the breadfruit and remove the central core. Cut it into medium-sized pieces. Place the pieces in water while preparing the other ingredients to prevent them from darkening.
Step 2: Prepare the Curry Base
Heat the oil in a suitable cooking pot over medium heat. Add mustard seeds and fenugreek seeds. Allow the mustard seeds to crackle gently.
Step 3: Add the Aromatics
Add the sliced onion, green chilies, curry leaves, pandan leaf, garlic, and cinnamon. Sauté for a few minutes until the onion becomes soft and fragrant.
Step 4: Add the Spices
Add turmeric powder, roasted curry powder, chili powder, and salt. Stir well for about 30 seconds, taking care not to burn the spices.
Step 5: Add the Breadfruit
Drain the breadfruit pieces and add them to the pot. Mix gently so the breadfruit is coated evenly with the spices.
Step 6: Add Thin Coconut Milk
Pour in the thin coconut milk. Cover the pot and cook over medium-low heat for approximately 15–20 minutes, or until the breadfruit becomes tender.
Step 7: Add Thick Coconut Milk
Once the breadfruit is cooked, add the thick coconut milk. Stir gently and simmer for another 3–5 minutes. Avoid boiling the curry vigorously after adding the thick coconut milk.
Step 8: Adjust the Taste
Taste the curry and adjust the salt and chili level according to your preference. The curry should have a creamy coconut flavor with a pleasant balance of spices.
Step 9: Serve
Turn off the heat and allow the curry to rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm with steamed rice and your favorite Sri Lankan side dishes.
Additional Details to Share for Breadfruit Curry (Del Maluwa)
Choosing Breadfruit
Choose a breadfruit that is mature but still firm. Very ripe breadfruit can become too soft and sweet for a traditional curry.
Cooking Tip for Breadfruit Curry (Del Maluwa)
Do not overcook the breadfruit. It should be tender enough to eat but should still hold its shape. Stir gently during cooking to prevent the pieces from breaking apart.
Spice Level
Adjust the amount of chili powder and green chilies according to your preferred level of spiciness.
Serving Suggestions fr Breadfruit Curry (Del Maluwa)
Breadfruit Curry (Del Maluwa) pairs especially well with:
- Steamed white or red rice
- Dhal curry
- Coconut sambol
- Pol sambol
- Gotukola sambol
- Papadum
- Fried or dried fish
Storage
Leftover curry can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Recipe Type
Cuisine: Sri Lankan
Course: Main Dish / Side Dish
Diet: Vegetarian
Main Ingredient: Breadfruit and coconut milk