Sri Lankan Jackfruit Curry
This rich and aromatic Sri Lankan jackfruit curry transforms humble young jackfruit into a deeply satisfying comfort dish. Slow-simmered in coconut milk with fragrant spices, this traditional polos curry delivers warming flavors that make it perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep.
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Servings: 4
Calories: 285kcal
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
- ½ medium onion diced
- 2 –3 garlic cloves minced
- 1- inch ginger piece minced
- 2 tbsp Sri Lankan roasted curry powder
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1 tsp tamarind concentrate
- 1¼ tsp sea salt
- 1 tsp sugar
- 600 g canned young jackfruit drained and chopped
- 3 cups coconut milk
- Curry leaves optional
- Pandan leaf optional
Instructions
- Heat coconut oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, and ginger and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add curry powder, cayenne, turmeric, black pepper, and cinnamon stick. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Stir in tamarind concentrate, salt, sugar, and jackfruit pieces, coating everything well with the spice mixture.
- Pour in coconut milk and add curry leaves and pandan leaf if using. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 1-2 hours, until jackfruit is tender and flavors have melded.
- Adjust salt and seasoning to taste before serving.
Notes
Use coconut oil for authentic flavor - vegetable oil can be substituted but will lack traditional taste
Toast spices carefully over medium heat to avoid burning, which creates bitter flavors
Fresh jackfruit can replace canned - use about 800g and increase cooking time by 30 minutes
Curry tastes even better the next day as flavors continue to develop
Double the recipe as it freezes beautifully for up to 3 months
Serve with steamed rice or Sri Lankan flatbread for a complete meal
Adjust cayenne pepper to taste - start with less if sensitive to heat
Nutrition
Calories: 285kcal | Carbohydrates: 18g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 24g | Saturated Fat: 21g | Sodium: 520mg | Potassium: 680mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 12g